Bringing together the latest technologies in vending, automated retail, and smart sales systems, VENDIST opens its doors on January 15 as part of ATRAX 2026 at the Istanbul Expo Center. Commenting on the vision behind VENDIST and the key focus areas for this year, Nergis ASLAN, Chair of the Board and Fair Organizer at Tureks International Fair Organization, emphasizes that automated retail has become a strategic investment shaping the future of the retail industry.
“Today, vending and automated sales systems are no longer just convenient sales solutions; they form the backbone of data-driven, contactless, and sustainable retail models,” says Aslan, underlining VENDIST’s role at the heart of this transformation.
Highlighting the rapid growth of the global automated retail market, Aslan notes:
“From smart vending machines and self-service solutions to digital payment systems and IoT-based technologies, VENDIST will showcase a comprehensive range of products and solutions. Investors, operators, and brand representatives from Europe to the Middle East, and from the Balkans to the Gulf region, will come together in Istanbul.”
According to Aslan, smart retail, efficiency, and next-generation sales models are at the core of VENDIST 2026:
“Consumer habits are changing rapidly. 24/7 accessibility, contactless shopping, low operational costs, and high efficiency are now essential. VENDIST brings together the technologies and business models driving this shift, offering industry professionals a clear vision of the future.”
Emphasizing that VENDIST is more than just an exhibition area, Aslan points out its strong business development and networking dimension:
“At VENDIST, companies do not only showcase their products; they also enter new markets, establish distributorship agreements, and lay the groundwork for international partnerships. Solutions designed for shopping malls, transportation hubs, hospitals, campuses, and public spaces are expected to attract strong interest this year.”
Concluding her remarks, Aslan invited all sector stakeholders to be part of this growing ecosystem:
“We invite investors, operators, and technology providers who want to shape the future of automated retail and smart vending systems to meet at VENDIST on January 15–17 in Istanbul.”