Students, faculty, staff and visitors at The University of Winnipeg needing a quick “pick me up” snack will now have more choices and nutritional information available to them, including gluten-free options. UWinnipeg has selected locally-owned Park Avenue Vending & Coffee which is installing 23 new machines in all areas of campus, effective December 1, 2014. The leading edge technology is the first of its kind in Canada and allows for display of UWinnipeg’s live Twitter feed and promotion of events.
The UWinnipeg branded machines offer 3D interactive touchscreen displays that include product details such as nutritional and ingredient information. The machines are also more sustainable, outfitted with LED lighting and motion sensors to conserve power when not in use. The machines initially accept cash but will be equipped going forward to accept credit cards and virtual wallet technologies.
In addition to standard chips and chocolate bars, snack choices will include gluten free and low sodium products, fair trade coffee, granola bars, fruit cups, trail mix, and hummus and crackers.
“People are increasingly aware of what they are consuming and being able to provide more detailed nutritional information fits well with our growing number of healthy campus initiatives,” said Dr. Annette Trimbee, President and Vice-Chancellor, UWinnipeg. “We are also pleased to support local entrepreneurs, Park Avenue Vending & Coffee, who are committed to recycling and actively recruit and train Indigenous employees.”
Park Avenue Vending & Coffee was formed in January 2006 by two Manitobans , Jeremy Major and Bernard Jamault, and now employs 12 people.