Vending business Broderick’s installs new app-operated vending machines at Liverpool John Moores University as it looks to go cashless and minimise the coronavirus risk.

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) has installed app-enabled vending machines allowing students to buy drinks and snacks without having to touch a console.

To minimise the risk of the spread of COVID-19, LJMU is looking to offer a cashless campus ahead of students’ return in September. The new machines are being supplied by Manchester-based refreshments and vending business Broderick’s.

The company’s Pay4Vend app will be used to operate each of the university vending machines – from meeting places and social zones to the library. Staff students and visitors can choose and pay for their refreshments without having to operate a keypad on the machine.

As a welcome gift, Broderick’s is loading a free £10 credit onto every student and member of staff’s app account. And every time they purchase from the vending machine, they’re entered into a virtual raffle, with the chance to win prizes ranging from a free coffee, through to vouchers for high street clothing stores.

Broderick’s organises an annual Battle of the Brands challenge that sees companies vying for a free spot in the vending machines to help launch to an on-target audience. Usually a January initiative, this year Broderick’s is opening its doors early to give brands a boost, helping them bounce back from the COVID effect on business.

Managing director John Broderick said: ‘’Broderick’s Battle of the Brands gives energetic snacking start-ups the chance to showcase their products to a really engaged audience.  All Broderick’s vending machines have intelligent telemetry which allows us to feedback real-time sales and marketing data.

“That’s gold dust as a resource for businesses looking to build and hone their offering by learning from consumer behaviour.  Brands are excited to get on board and we have a range of snacks and drinks that we can’t wait to showcase in September.’’

Peter Robinson, head of catering at LJMU, added: “The university has been working tirelessly to adapt the campus to make it safe.  Working with Broderick’s is an example of the clever thinking behind our initiative – not only is hygiene front and foremost, the vending business is helping us to manage it in a way that retains the fun and friendly atmosphere we’re known for as a university.”