Snacks and vending: a combination evolving in line with new consumer trends

The world of vending machine snacks is undergoing a major transformation. At Venditalia 2026, to be held in Rimini from 6 to 8 May, sweet and savoury snacks will be among the most prominent categories, reflecting the new conscious consumption habits guiding food choices around the world.

Snacks increasingly available in vending machines

Single-serve snacks, traditionally associated with vending machines, are now evolving to meet the needs of modern consumers, who are mindful of ingredients, nutrition and convenience.

This is confirmed by the “State of Snacking” report conducted by Mondelēz International and The Harris Poll on over 3,700 adults in 12 countries. Some key figures:

• 91% of global consumers eat at least one snack a day

• 65% say that they snack more often than in the previous year

Gen Z and Millennials driving the chan

Over 70% of Gen Z and Millennials prefer to spread their calorie intake across small moments throughout the day, turning functional snacking into a lifestyle choice.

Snacks are becoming:

• a sign of personal care

• a way of reducing stress

• a break to improve mood
   

Mindful snacking growing in vending

The concept of “mindful snacking” is now key. 96% of consumers say they consider the quality and nutritional value of snacks more important than simply counting calories.

Emerging trends:

• 69% prefer portion-controlled snacks

• Interest is growing in snacks with natural ingredients and in convenient formats

• The single-serve format in vending machines is a perfect response to these demands

Indulgent snacks: pleasure remains fundamental

Despite the push towards conscious consumption, the need to feel gratified remains strong. 76% of respondents still want to thoroughly enjoy an indulgent snack, perhaps in a smaller but satisfying portion.

A significant figure is that 73% cannot imagine life without chocolate.

Venditalia 2026: the future of snack vending

The snack vending sector will take centre stage at Venditalia 2026, with:

• New healthy and functional products

• Proposals aligned with the concept of food sustainability

• Innovations designed to capture global trends in mindful snacking

Vending machines remain a strategic channel for the future of snacking, combining pleasure, convenience and well-being.

➡️ Discover all the latest news from the snack world at Venditalia 2026: the place where the world of vending comes together.