Convenience Services Industry Announces Public Health Commitment: Leading Public Health Groups Endorse Initiative

CHICAGO — October 23, 2019 — NAMA, with the support of the Partnership for a Healthier America and also the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, announced today that it has adopted a public health commitment to substantially increase the percentage of ‘better for you’ offerings to 33% in the nation’s vending machines.

The commitment, implemented over the next three years, represents a nearly 40% increase over current levels of ‘better for you’ offerings – those that meet at least two recognized public health standards.

“There are nearly four million vending machines serving snacks and beverages every day, 24/7, across this country” said NAMA CEO Carla Balakgie. “Vending is everywhere consumers work, play, and live. NAMA regards this initiative as a bold, ambitious, and meaningful step to meet the growing consumer demand for healthier choices.”

Balakgie made the announcement today in New York City at a special briefing. She was accompanied by leaders from the convenience services industry. Representatives from the Partnership for a Healthier America and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation also joined.

“Our fundamental goal is to make healthier choices accessible to all,” said Nancy E. Roman, CEO of the Partnership for a Healthier America. “We applaud NAMA and its members for their efforts with this commitment. We also look forward to helping to make it a success.” Partnership for a Healthier America will collaborate with NAMA. They will measure components of the public health commitment.

Five Star Food Service is also proud to be a founding participating operator in the commitment for public health. Read the full press release here.