Evaluation of Pilot Implementation of Nutritional Standards for Vending in Local Councils and Wider Public Sector

Abstract

This evaluation assessed the implementation of nutritional standards for vending machines across three public sector pilot sites. The intervention aimed to improve the nutritional quality of vending products, focusing on cold drinks and ambient snacks. Pilot Site 1 (PS1), managed by Vending Machine Operator A (VMO A), demonstrated high implementation fidelity through strategic planning, early VMO staff engagement and the substitution of products with lower calorie alternatives that were similar in type and appeal to the original offerings. This resulted in a 26% reduction in average calories and a 35% reduction in average sugar per unit sold, with drinks showing the most significant nutritional improvements. Importantly, these changes did not negatively impact sales or revenue, and consumer satisfaction increased. This approach demonstrated that nutritional standards can be effectively operationalised when product changes are carefully managed. In contrast, Pilot Sites 2 and 3 (PS2 and PS3), managed by VMO B, faced compressed implementation timelines, limited VMO staff involvement, and logistical challenges, which led to delayed product updates. Furthermore, replacement snack products were not similar in type to the original offerings, resulting in reduced consumer appeal. Although drinks at these sites achieved some nutritional improvements and sales of drinks were less impacted than snacks, overall implementation was compromised, resulting in declines in sales and consumer satisfaction. Vending machine operators (VMOs) varied in their implementation success, influenced by operational capacity and prior experience. The study highlights the need for VMOs and implementation sites to work closely on product selection to achieve successful implementation. The study demonstrates that nutritional standards can be operationalised effectively, but outcomes depend on site context, product selection and VMO engagement early in and throughout the implementation process. Limitations included short post-implementation periods, variability in implementation, and self-reported consumer survey data.