The Co-op is considering further smart tobacco gantry installations following a successful two-year trial with Navarra Retail Systems (NRS).

The machines are linked to EPoS systems, vending the tobacco product that is selected by the cashier. The gantries feature advertising screens, and take up less space than traditional gantries.

NRS said this gives “store designers freedom to place the smart gantries where they are best suited.”

Commenting on the recent trials, the Co-op’s format equipment manager Steve Gell said the machines were “designed to speed up service improve backline space and protect valuable stock, the systems enable retailers to manage the post-EUTPD tobacco category more efficiently and profitably.”

The machines have also been installed by independent retailers operating under the Southern-Co-op’s Welcome Co-op franchise programme. Richard Ingliss added the tobacco vending solutions to his three Southampton Welcome Co-op stores.

NRS estimates that retailers save the full value of the vending machines in 15-18 months through staff time efficiencies, reduced shrinkage and less dropped baskets.

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