Everything Everywhere and Nokia Siemens Networks have announced a machine-to-machine partnership that will link vending machines to NSN’s cloud-based VendMe service via Everything Everywhere SIM cards. It allows vending machine owners to take advantage of remote stock monitoring, location-based promotional messages and mobile payments.
The M2M connectivity will allow vendors to monitor stock levels remotely, enabling them to plan stock replenishment without making unnecessary visits. Each machine will also be able to send targeted messages to nearby customers and will offer Near Field Communications technology for payments, along with Reverse SMS and Chip & Pin.
Marc Overton, vice president for Wholesale and M2M at Everything Everywhere, said “Vending is just one of many areas where we are offering innovative services outside the traditional telecoms remit. There is great potential for M2M technologies to provide companies operating internationally in all sectors with instant access to data, making businesses run better and improving the customer experience. In Nokia Siemens Networks, we have a global partner that shares our focus on developing cloud-based applications to address the needs of all markets and customers, however far they may sit outside the traditional telecoms space.”
The smart vending machines will be trialled this summer, with commercial roll-out expected to take place later in the year.