Coinadrink proudly celebrated a landmark event at The Vending International Awards 2025, held on Wednesday 4th June, at the iconic Grand Connaught Rooms in London.

Known across the industry as “The Vendies” and taking place every June, it again brought together key players from the vending and unattended retail sectors for a memorable occasion dedicated to excellence, innovation, and achievement. 

We were delighted to be named finalists in all six categories we entered, an incredible recognition in its own right. But the evening held even more reason for celebration, as we were honoured with two award wins and two high commendations: 

🏆 Best Large Operator – Winner 

🏆 Excellence in Communication – Winner 

👏 Best Family Business – Highly Commended 

👏 Best Vending Project (Smart Fridge) – Highly Commended 

Representing Coinadrink on the night were Managing Director Tom Williams, Operations Manager Annette Ball, and Credit Controller Dani Pereira. Together, they joined industry professionals to connect and celebrate. 

The recognition we received reflects the dedication and hard work of our entire team. Being named Best Large Operator is a proud endorsement of the quality of our services, our customer-first mindset, and our ability to maintain excellence. 

Meanwhile, the Excellence in Communication award highlights our ongoing efforts to keep customers informed, supported, and engaged across every platform and interaction. 

Tom Williams spoke of his pride at our two major victories: "Being named the Best Large Operator in the industry is a huge honour. It reflects the exceptional service we deliver and our growing role as a leader in the field. With this recognition comes the responsibility to continue setting high standards and driving innovation. 

Meanwhile, the Excellence in Communication award recognises how effectively we engage with our stakeholders, from customers and prospects to the local community, charities, and our own team. It’s a competitive category, and winning it highlights our commitment to clear, impactful communication — something we pride ourselves on." 

Our bespoke Smart Fridge solution, developed through our Express Refreshments brand, also earned high praise in the Best Vending Project category. This recognition showcases how we continue to push boundaries through innovative, tailored refreshment solutions that help drive our industry forward. 

Finally, receiving a high commendation for Best Family Business acknowledges our enduring commitment to the values that have guided us as a family-run operation for over 60 years.

"These commendations are significant achievements, especially given the strong competition. The Smart Fridge project, in particular, stood out among some truly impressive entries and projects. Even though we were not winners, we are very proud to have been commended so highly. 

None of this would be possible without each and every one of our team members. These awards belong to all of us. They reflect the teamwork, integrity, and excellence everyone brings every day. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together." finished Tom. 

This year’s Vendies marked another standout moment in our company’s journey, and it was particularly meaningful to celebrate it among such a passionate and forward-thinking community.

The evening was not only about winning awards, it was about coming together with peers, customers, and partners to reflect on the strength and evolution of our industry. 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the event organisers, sponsors, judges, and fellow finalists. Congratulations to all the winners - your dedication and achievements continue to elevate the industry as a whole. 

As we proudly display these latest accolades in our boardroom, we look forward to building on this momentum over the next 12 months and continuing to be a vending and refreshment operator that businesses across the Black Country and beyond can trust.