Friendships are an important part of our business…

Over the years Excel Vending has formed associations, partnerships and working relationships with many prominent groups, all of which are rewarding for a variety of reasons but our long-standing membership of AVS (Associated Vending Services) has always been a special relationship for us. Formed in 1979, this group of independent, privately owned vending companies provides a platform where like-minded owners can share knowledge on business-related issues and establish mutual friendships.

Excel's membership of AVS extends back over 20 years, and I am proud to serve as a Board member while my husband and Co-Director John is also delighted to be part of the Engineering and Technical Committee.

Running a business, as many of you will know, can at times be lonely! AVS allows members to share experiences and discuss challenges with their peers in complete confidence. AVS membership is very carefully vetted so you can rest assured that fellow members will act with integrity and in each other's best interests at all times. In September every year, we are always excited to attend the AVS Annual Conference! It's a time to catch up with old friends, attend a packed Business Conference and celebrate the achievements of many of our suppliers and business partners.

This year, the annual conference took us to sunny Vilamoura in Portugal and the lovely Tivoli Marina Hotel. From start to finish, it was a fantastic combination of business and fun with lots of formal and informal meetings where we discussed the vending industry and all the opportunities and innovations of the future. As usual, AVS Conference was well supported by very generous sponsorship which is much appreciated by all members of our Group.

I would like to personally congratulate all of the Suppliers who were winners at our Awards ceremony – all very well deserved however I would especially like to congratulate Tim Newberry, AVS Chairman, on receiving the David Macqueen Member of the Year Award. Tim has devoted a great deal of time to AVS and this very special award – voted for by the AVS Members is in appreciation for his tireless contribution, not just this year but for all his years of service.

Our Keynote Speaker this year was Robert Llewellyn, Presenter of Fully Charged and Red Dwarf Star who provided an engaging and entertaining look at electric vehicles and other topical issues. So much so, I am considering making my next car electric and introducing an Electric Van into the Fleet. Later in the evening, Craig Charles (vending repairman in Red Dwarf lol) got the party on the dancefloor with his brilliant DJ set – outstanding entertainment!

All in all, it was a wonderful and very welcome few days where we balanced the serious matters of business with some fun in the Sun with our fellow AVS vending professionals. Finally a BIG thank you to Louise Cummings CEO and the AVS Office Team whose organisation of these events is second to none.