VEND NORTHWEST E-ZINE; Taking business personally, one customer at a time.

School Items and Fall Savings

2011-09-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to give everyone a quick reminder on this beautiful Friday that Vend NW offers over 150 different school certified items. These items are able to be placed at schools or anywhere else to enhance your offerings and increase sales.

Next week is our last week of the fall buying event so make sure to stop in or give us a call to take advantage of all of our great deals!

As the week finally begins to wind down make sure to enjoy the rest of this workday and have a great weekend.

Thank you

Steve Fischer

President

Vend NW Distributing

Today We Remember

2011-09-11T13:07:00.000-07:00

It was ten years ago that our nation experienced one of the worst tragedies in many of our lifetimes. Ten long years ago nearly 3,000 people lost their lives. We must remember the wonderful lives that were cut short as well as the heroism that shown by thousands across our nation. We must also continue to move forward as we continue to make this a great nation.

In honor of the victims of this tragedy take this as an opportunity to tell everyone that you love how much they mean to you, now and always.

We must never forget and may this day not only be a reminder of what we have endured, but also of our ability to come together with limitless courage and compassion for one another.

Thank you

Steve Fischer

President

Vend NW Distributing

Back to School

2011-08-30T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone

Things are finally starting to feel like they are getting back to normal! After a busy summer, which included the wedding of my oldest son, lots of out-of-town company, and a very successful Vend NW Golf Tourney its time to get ready for the school year and all the excitement that brings.

For most of us school is starting back up next week so this is a great time to stock up as you prepare to fill your machines for the new school year. Make sure to come in and take advantage of our fall buying special as this is the best way to take advantage of the savings that we offer.

Please let us know how we can best help

Thank you

Steve Fischer

President

Vend NW Distributing

Pop Chips

2011-06-22T17:16:00.000-07:00

At Vend Northwest we strive to make the impact of price increases as minimal as possible. With that in mind, we have improved our mix of products to make your machines stand out!

We have added Pop Chips Brand Chips in the following flavors:

Salt n Vinegar

Sour Cream & Onion

Cheddar

These chips are the new look for the more upscale eating habits of office clients that demand high quality snacks without the guilt. Stop by today to sample these latest additions.

Thanks

Steve Fischer

President

Vend NW Distributing

Golf Tourney Reminder

2011-06-22T17:12:00.000-07:00

Tie a bow around your finger so that you have the golf tournament circled on your calendar. As a reminder the golf tournament is July 16th at Lewis River Golf and Country Club.

Call Sharon for more details or any questions you might have

Remember this is the year of the rabbit so take some time to have fun!

Sincerely,

Steve Fischer
President
Vend NW Distributing

Bulk Vending Expansion

2011-05-08T13:48:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that we have expanded our bulk vending offerings. In our continued quest to best serve you for all of your vending needs we have added many exciting new products. We have increased our offerings to include a vast multitude of novelty items including: bouncy balls, stickers, tattoos, glittery rings, sticky mixes and a variety of other fun items made for one to two inch capsules. Stop by today to check out our latest offerings and pick up some of these exciting new products

Thanks
Steve Fischer
President
Vend NW Distributing

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T13:39:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, just wanted to wish a very special and happy mother's day to all the wonderful women in all our lives. Thanks for all the support and strength that you have and continue to provide to us all. Make sure to thank your mother today for all the blessing she has given you and to reach out to all the important women in our lives.

Hopefully everyone can enjoy some quality time with the ones they love today.

Thanks

Steve Fischer
President
Vend NW Distributing

Vend NW Customer Appreciation Golf Day!

2011-04-19T19:38:00.000-07:00

As it seems that the sun has finally decided to come out from the clouds, I want to remind everyone that there are only 16 more weeks until the Vend NW Golf Event at Lewis River Golf and Country Club. As most of you already know, Lewis River offers one of most beautiful backdrops for golf in the NW. Let's use this opportunity to meet new people and chat with brokers and sales associates that are only in town a couple times of year at most.

As it is the year of the rabbit, we should make sure to take time to relax and enjoy life!

Email us at vndco@qwestoffice.net or call the office at 503 262-8288, Sharon has all the details and is ready to help!

Thanks again

Steve Fischer

President

Vend NW Distributing

Spring Buying Event Reminder

2011-04-19T19:32:00.000-07:00

Just a quick reminder to let everyone know that the Spring Event ends on Friday April 29th. It is great to see that everyone is taking advantage of the great savings, especially now since candy price increases are looming in the near future. We want to reiterate that we will continue to do everything we can to offset these increases as best as we can so remember to partake in this great opportunity!!

Thanks for all the support
Steve Fischer
President
Vend NW Distributing

Another Price Increase

2011-03-28T11:14:00.000-07:00

To our Valued Customers

Yes it is official M & M Mars just announced a price increase on all singles and multiples of singles formerly referred to as King size effective May 23rd,2011. This increase, when all of us are facing tough economic challenges is frustrating at best. M & M Mars is citing the commodity inflation on key ingredients.

Now is the time to plan ahead as to how you want to tackle this price movement

Thanks

Steve Fischer

President

Vend Northwest Distributing

Spring Buying Event Reminder

2011-03-27T15:27:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone. Just wanted to get out a quick reminder about the spring buying event. The spring buying event starts this coming week and this is one of our best ways to help you save money and be successful! Give us a call this week or even better come in and we will make sure to take care of you.

Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Steve Fischer

President

Vend Northwest Distributing

6th Annual Vend NW Invitational

2011-03-14T12:08:00.000-07:00

July 16th, 2011

Lewis River Golf Course

3209 Lewis River Road

Woodland, WA 98674

Hi everyone

Here are the details for the 6th Annual Vend NW Invitational.

4 person scramble
Putting Contest at 9AM Sharp
Shotgun Start at 10AM
Drinks, food, prizes and lots of fun
$60 per person fee (includes cart)

Please make sure to RSVP by July 1st in order to reserve your spot before we fill up. You can RSVP by phone at 503 262-8288 or at the sign up sheet next time you stop by the office.

We are looking forward to another great tournament and lots of fun!

If you have any questions or concerns please gives us a call or come on in

Thanks!

Steve Fischer

President

Vend NW Distributing

Whatever happened to Moderation?

2011-03-02T20:38:00.000-08:00

It seems today that most people need help from the government in selecting food options for a snack, at least from Vending Machines! Or at least that seems to be what we are being told. The move to let people know how awful the choices have been in Vending Machines today, makes me wonder “Whatever happened to Moderation”? It’s funny to ask around the office what snack or mid meal morsel gets people through the day. Some like it salty, some just need a apple, some like a candy bar or a granola bar or trail mix. We are all different in the individual needs of our personal chemistry.

Why have vending machines become such a scapegoat for some of the bigger issues we have in society? Too much of anything is rarely a good thing, but with moderation and balance there are many things we can enjoy in life.

Thanks again for all your support!

Steve Fischer

President

Spring Buying Event

2011-02-27T12:47:00.000-08:00

It seems that 2011 started with all the pressure from the commodity side of life. Manafacturers have had to start moving prices upward again. It seems that everything from petroleum, sugar, cocoa to packaging have had to serve price increases in the last year. Manufacturers had done their due diligence, trying to shave every increase to minimize any impact to the public, but to no avail. The vending industry has to move prices upward to recover the impact of these increases, which will have effects upon each operator. If the operator will not stay up with the rising cost factors that hit us all they will be left behind.

Thankfully, we have a couple of opportunities to take advantage of some cost savings with our Annual Spring/Fall Buying events that act like a SHOW "NO SHOW"! We strive to save you as much money as we can by focusing on cost reductions instead of fine dining and peripherals.

The Spring buying event starts March 28th and runs through April 29th. Most Manufacturers have stepped up and offered several cost saving ideas to make your machine selections more exciting!

The Fall buying event will incorporate new items and savings that start from August 22nd and run through September 30th.

We hope to offer these these events as great opportunity to fight rising costs.

Look for an email this week about the Spring Event and send back your completed form by March 21st to take advantage of great saving.

Thanks from everyone on the Vend Northwest team, stay positive and we wll all get through this together!

Broaden your selection with these delicious new coffee cakes from Cloverhill

2011-02-21T12:34:00.000-08:00

We are excited to introduce delicious new snack options from Cloverhill. Here are some details to help you get started:

These tasty treats come in convenient 8/8oz trays with a long shelf life of 30 days

The popular flavors of raspberry and cream cheese will make an excellent addition to breakfast or anytime your sweetooth comes calling!

Thanks for all your support, and please let us know what we can do to meet all your vending needs!

Steve Fischer

President

Vend NW Distributing

Chinese New Year

2011-02-12T14:09:00.000-08:00

The Year of the Rabbit, 2011

The Chinese New Year began February 3rd, and ushers in a time when sensitivity, creativity, prudence, and diplomacy will be rewarded. After the ups and downs of 2010 we look forward to a relatively calmer year in 2011. In Chinese astrology the rabbit is associated with home and family, art and aesthetic sensibilities, dependability, flexibility and diplomacy.

There will be more opportunities this year to relax, enjoy entertaining loved ones, pursue artistic and aesthetic interests and enjoy the finer things of life. In a rabbit year we are encouraged to act with discretion; to enjoy the benefits of a time of greater ease without falling into self indulgence. It is a good time to cultivate family and global harmony, and to show our love through our actions. Keep an eye out for new partnerships that may be formed this year that will be beneficial to all. These new partners will require careful cultivation. Pay attention to how your words and actions affect those around you. Those who are able to tactfully negotiate complex personal or business issues will shine in a rabbit year. We may all be asked to act with greater discretion, and to make reasonable concessions in our dealings with others.

What areas of your life might benefit from cultivating the sensitivity, creativity, and diplomacy available in a rabbit year?

Am I willing to take the time to rest when I am over tired?

What leisure activities have i been missing?

Am I aware of beauty and harmony in my environment

How can I contribute toward beauty and harmony in my environment?

Are there artistic pursuits I have been longing to try?

In what area of my life may more discretion be called for?

How are my relationships with my co-workers? my family members? my community?

Could I benefit from cultivating diplomacy at work? at home? in my community?

What is my role in keeping the peace?

In what areas of my life would i welcome new mutually beneficial partnerships?

Is there anything I am doing to block receiving new partners?

Am I able to trust others?

Do others consider me to be trustworthy?

In contrast to the great external changes of 2010,the coming year will be characterized by the greater changes in the inner aspects of our lives. Through self reflection, hard work on the inner landscape will be well rewarded. We will each have our part to play in keeping the peace as we walk forward confidently into the unknown.

Looking forward to a great prosperous and enlightening 2011.

-Steve Fischer

President
Vend NW Distributing

HAPPY BIRTHDAY VARGAS

2011-01-30T10:28:00.000-08:00

Wanted to wish a great guy and a great friend a very Happy Birthday and to let him know that we all appreciate the fantastic work he does for us all in the vending industry!! Happy Birthday Steve !!!!

THANKS FOR THE BUSINESS THIS WEEK

2011-01-28T15:14:00.000-08:00

Hey people, I just wanted to let you all know how appreciative we all are for the business you did with us this past week. Now it's time to take a couple days off (at least 1)and prepare for next week. you all need to relax and regroup and hit it hard again on Monday! Maybe go get a "mani-pedi" !! aaahhh a mani-pedi doesn't that sound great!!! Anyway spend some time with your family as they are trully the only ones that will be there when the work is done!! Have a super weekend and I will see you all next week!!!!! Curt

POP CHIPS ARE "POPPING" INTO VEND NORTHWEST

2011-01-26T15:24:00.000-08:00

Finally!!! We have waited a year to get these puppies into our warehouses and yes people they are finally coming!!! YAY............we are hoping to have these bad boys in stock sometime in February. Everything is final and approved and waiting for us to place the order!! Give me some feedback or some great Popchip story that you might have. Your vending machines are practically guaranteed to eat these non fried potato chips up! These chips are sooooooo good and guilt free!! Curt

VENDING COMPANIES WEBSITES

2011-01-26T11:54:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, there has been a lot of questions and comments lately about "where do I find a vending company in my area", "who carries this", "who carries that" etc. If you look over on the "right" side of the blog you will find a list of "Please visit our partners in the vending industry". These are links to those companies websites and they will tell you what they do and the products that they carry. If you are a vending company or doing business in the vending or food service industry I would love to help our customers out by providing a "link" to your website. So just email me with the address and I will post it. I hope this clarifies some questions that have come up lately. Curt

YUMMY CHOCOLATE GOLDFISH

2011-01-24T11:52:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, Pepperidge Farm has come out with a New Goldfish for vending "Chocolate" Goldfish. Let me know what you all think (they will be coming in a sample bag near you soon) ! Should we carry them or should we not? We really do value your opinions!! Curt

HEALTHY FOOD FOR KIDS

2011-01-21T11:42:00.000-08:00

Just wondering what you guys think of this product? Any interest in purchasing? We are thinking about bringing them in and would like some input. We currently carry a lot of the Hormel 10oz regular Compleats.

Nutrition:

Hormel® Compleats® Kids Spaghetti and Meatballs

Serving Size: 198g
Servings Per Containers: Varied
Per Serving:
Calories: 200
Calories from Fat: 50
Total Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 590mg
Total Carbohydrate: 27g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 10g
Vitamin A: 10%
Vitamin C: 0%
Calcium: 2%
Iron: 4%

Ingredients: Tomatoes (Water, Tomato Paste), Enriched Spaghetti (Water, Enriched Semolina [Wheat, Niacin, Ferrous Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Folic Acid], Egg Whites, Wheat Gluten, Glyceryl Monostearate), Water, Cooked Meatballs (Beef, Pork, Water, Textured Vegetable Protein [Soy Protein Concentrate, Caramel Color], Bread Crumbs [Wheat Flour, Sugar, Yeast, Salt, Soybean Oil], Salt, Sugar, Spices, Flavorings, Garlic Powder), Carrots, Sugar, Contains 2% or less of Modified Cornstarch, Dietary Fiber (Partially Hydrolyzed Guar Gum), Potato Starch, Nonfat Dry Milk, Flavoring, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Autolyzed Yeast, Flavor (Autolyzed Yeast, Salt, Olive Oil, Citric Acid), Flavor (Yeast Extract, Natural Flavor, Salt), Citric Acid, Spices, Dextrose, Oleoresin of Paprika, Dehydrated Cheddar Cheese (Cheddar Cheese [Cultured Milk, Salt, Enzymes], Disodium Phosphate, Salt, Lactic Acid), Tartaric Acid.

TIME TO STEP UP THE CUSTOMER SERVICE

2011-01-20T16:45:00.000-08:00

I wanted all of you to know that we here at Vend Northwest are very passionate about our industry and want to share that passion with all of you.
We understand that EVERYBODY is going through some sort of difficulty at any givin' time and want you all to know that we are here to help you through it and really be a partner to you in your business.
The more we help each other, the more knowledge we all will have to help with the next time we encounter difficulties. I tend to think of the relationships as a sort of Association without the fees! There is definitely power and knowledge in numbers.
Don't be afraid to ask, that is what "Full Line" Distributor is all about. We are here for whatever and whenever you need us.From New Products to helping you find the right equipment!!

Keep up the good fight people and give your customers an amazing vending experience!!! Curt

HAPPY MONDAY MY PEOPLE

2011-01-17T08:19:00.000-08:00

Hey guys just wanted to wish you all a very happy and prosperous Monday! I know some of you may not be working because of the holiday Martin Luther King Day. But for you all that are working I am here with ya. Lets catch up on some stuff and start working on some new stuff!! Have a great day and a great week everybody!!!!!

Curt

5 LB HERSHEY GIVEWAY

2011-01-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

WHOLLY COW 5 LBS OF CHOCOLATE!!!!!

Hey Peeps I need you to come in to find out if you were one of the lucky winners of our 5lb Hershey bar giveaway. We drew two winners from Hershey purchases in December to receive a 5 lb Hershey bar each! So hurry up and come get it!!!!!!

TWIZZLERS NOW IN STOCK

2011-01-10T09:07:00.000-08:00

Finally the candy spiral size 2.5oz Strawberry Twizzler from Hershey is now in stock at Vend Northwest!! Call your salesman and tell him you are totally twisted with anticipation to get Twizzler into your machines and into your customers mouths!! Just wait until you hear all of that change Twisting down the chutes into your coin boxes!!!

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND

2011-01-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

Hey fellow vending enthusiasts. I wanted to say TGIF and I hope you all have a (i assume) well deserved weekend. I know I am certainly looking forward to it after this first full week back to work after the holidays. Anyway that's it. Spend some time with the family and enjoy them, we are only on this planet for a short time. Work Hard and play hard. I enjoy all of you and thanks ! Curt

SOME LIKE IT HOT !!

2011-01-06T10:09:00.000-08:00

Coming soon to a Vend Northwest near you, El Sabrosa Blazin' Hot Nacho Tortilla Chips! These babies aren't for the Faint of Heart...........they are truly HOT and CHEESY. They will leave your customers wishing they had bought 2 bags and a soda out of your machines!!!!!! We are looking for them to arrive towards the end of January. So prepare to have Smokin' Hot sales in the month of February with these new tortilla chips from the makers of everybody's favorite Salsita's !!!!!

BACK TO THE J.O.B.

2011-01-04T10:28:00.000-08:00

Alrighty then.........back to work peeps! let's make this happen. I was in Seattle all day yesterday working getting the New Year off to a great start! If I didn't get into see you, call me and I will. If I did see you....what's up?? :-)

The more you listen, the more you know. so get to work!!!!!

LAST DAY OF VACATION!!

2010-12-31T11:41:00.000-08:00

Well they say "all good things must come to an end" and this is true with vacations........aahhhhhh, i needed that! Now it is back to work in 2011 which promises to be the biggest and best in the history of Vend Northwest!! There are GREAT things in the works that will be of bennefit to us all!! Happy New Year peeps and lets make 2011 spectacular together!!!

TUESDAY IN WESTPORT

2010-12-28T10:36:00.000-08:00

Hey peeps, I just wanted to say hi and share a couple of pics with all of you!! I hope everybody's week is going well, whether you are working or taking some time off I hope Christmas was well and Happy New Year!!!

VACATION NEXT WEEK

2010-12-21T10:57:00.000-08:00

Here is what we are doing on vacation next week!!!! Tokeland, Washington. Nothing to do but sit around in our jammies with the dog(jelly bean) and watch the Ocean!!!!

BAH-HUMBUG

2010-12-17T13:18:00.000-08:00

Please tell me that I am not the only "slacker" out there that has done nothing to prepare for the Christmas Holiday??? I just can't seem to get motivated and now that all of the kids are in their teen years the cheapest (least expensive) item on all of their lists is an x-box game and I think they are like $60 !!! AAARRRGGGHHHH....I think next year I will start Knitting and make them all a quilt!! :-) I still need Parents, Grandparents, Brothers, Sisters, Cousins, etc,etc,etc......SO, tonight I start with the buying!! There are going to be tons of people out there this weekend I am sure!!! Alrighty then, that's whats going on in the world of Curt this weekend, if anybody wants to hook up and spend the weekend shopping (like a bunch of girls) with me, CALL!!!!!! Happy Holidays you guys, I appreciate all of you!!!!!!! Curt

BLUE DIAMOND MOVIE TICKETS

2010-12-15T12:35:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys, I just wanted to say that the 1 movie ticket with the purchase of 1 case of Blue Diamond Almonds deal is over and it was a GREAT success.......I will be sure to keep everyone posted on the next Give away deal we get! Thanks to everyone that participated and ENJOY THE SHOW!!!!

SKOUT NATURAL TRAIL BARS

2010-12-13T08:22:00.000-08:00

Hands down the best tasting Organic, natural bar out there and they are made here in the Great Pacific Northwest !!! There is nothing better than to reach into your hiking pack and pull out one of these babies when you are needing a little "lift" !!!!

BODECKER SINGLE CUP BREWER FOR SALE

2010-12-10T18:48:00.000-08:00

Hey guys I got a buddy who has this excellent single cup brewing solution for sale it typically sells for $1,100.00!! The machine has never been used in any accounts and he is only asking $500.00 and also will throw in product and the little rack you see next to the machine!! If your interested give me a call and I will hook you up!! Curt

"Click" on the link to see a bigger picture.

ROAD CAMS ADDED TO BLOG

2010-12-08T08:59:00.000-08:00

Hey Peeps
I just added a "link" to both the Oregon and the Washington Trip Check road cams to the blog, so now whenever you need to check the route for your drivers, you can come to the blog and just "click" on the "link" that you need! I have posted them right at the top on the right side of the Blog page. Happy Delivering!!

Curt

VENDING WORLD DECEMBER SALE

2010-12-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

Hey guys please check out the deals that Vending World has going on for December!

Internet customer,
Please take a look at these specials:

We have saved the best for last. All sales machines $300 off each for the month of December 2010

http://snackvending.vendingworld.com/specials.php

Thank you

Randy Ajax

President, Vending World

Please visit our web site at:

http://www.vendingworld.com

MORE FOOD INCREASES

2010-12-03T11:23:00.000-08:00

Higher food prices will hit consumers hard

After rising moderately, costs are projected to jump due to global demand and higher producer expenses

- FarkIt

Have a big, juicy ham on the Christmas menu? Need some butter to bake those holiday cookies?
Hope you're willing to pay a little -- and in some cases a lot -- more.
Just as the holiday season hits, prices are rising -- especially on those items you'll need to cook for all those gatherings and the staples you always keep stocked in the kitchen.
Think meats, milk, eggs, cheese and sugar.
"We see the price increases, and we have to pass them on to customers," said Chris Archer, owner of Archer's Meat Packing in Greenwood. "There's an increase in prices on beef and hogs and especially goats and lamb."
But it's not just meats. Overall, food prices are climbing, and economists expect them to rise even faster next year.
The increase is nothing astronomical when you look at food prices as a whole. The U.S. Department of Agriculture is predicting that food prices this year will rise 0.5 percent to 1.5 percent, the lowest annual rate of inflation since 1992. Next year, the forecast is for an increase of 2 percent to 3 percent.
"That's a reasonable amount of increase, especially considering prices last year were a bargain," said Jerry Conover, director of the Indiana Business Research Center at Indiana University's Kelley School of Business.
But it's not as reasonable when you look at some individual items or categories, such as meats and dairy, where the jump is significant. Pork, for example, is up 13 percent from a year ago; butter is up 25 percent; and milk has risen 6 percent, according to the USDA.
To consumers, many of whom are still struggling financially, the increase can seem unbearable.
"I've already decided I'm not cooking it all this Christmas. The kids are gonna have to pitch in," said Elaine Scruggs, who was shopping in the baking aisle at Walmart on Pendleton Pike on Monday. "I'm not lazy. I'm just cheap."
Scruggs gasped when she saw a 5-pound bag of Domino Sugar was $4.24. Sugar prices have risen more than 3 percent in the past year.

This Article Originally appeared at IndyStar.com on Nov. 30

WORKING TOGETHER ALWAYS

2010-12-02T11:33:00.000-08:00

Whether we like to admit it or not, we all need a little help at one time or another. This is especially true in an industry that is as competitive as ours. I complain sometimes about how much of a "cut" the Manufacturers Brokers get from the product that you and I purchase but truth be told they are an integral part of the process in our industry, they (not all of them) have their finger on the pulse of the customers and actually sometimes can act as an agent of yours even though they are not allowed. Them just being there in front of the customer and possibly mentioning your companies name as a source where to purchase their products. This also works in the reverse for the Manufacturer, by having those guys out there they have a conduit between themselves and the sometimes ill mannered customers. Today I realized that we can't do this alone it takes a lot of "chain links" in the right positions to make a good company great! Always remember this when you are deciding which bridges to burn and which ones to fortify. You/we/us/me/them need every possible opportunity and guidance that will push or lead us in the direction of success. To all of my colleagues in the industry that feel as passionate about Vending and customer service as I do, I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart and look forward to all of our continued success!!! Curt

5 MONTH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY

2010-12-01T15:56:00.000-08:00

AND I AM STILL THE HAPPIEST MAN IN THE WORLD !!!!!!!! I LOVE YOU MRS. WOKAL!!!!!

CLOVERHILL MINI-DONUTS

2010-11-30T16:11:00.000-08:00

I wanted to throw this out there and see what sticks. I am getting in some samples of these yummy looking doughnuts and am going to start handing them out. They are approximately a 1/2 oz larger than the current Mrs.Freshley Mini's that we sell and are sold at the same price. So I was wondering how many of you would be of a open mind and possibly switch from one to the other?? I'm sure we would continue to carry both but was just kinda wondering who would be a die hard cloverhill or a die hard Freshley fan?? Anyway, toss me your thoughts on the subject peeps!! Curt

PROUD OF OUR NATION AND ITS PEOPLE

2010-11-30T14:38:00.000-08:00

Our new line of patriotic American Flag/Statue of Liberty Sugar and Creamer canisters our very colorful and will leave a sense of pride and honor with all of your customers especially all of those companies and customers that already pride themselves in being citizens of The United States Of America. These will be available for purchase around the middle of December this year. The pricing stays the same as our current Diamond Crystal products and a portion of the sale goes to help our fellow "less fortunate" Americans!! Curt

TREACHEROUS DELIVERY

2010-11-30T09:26:00.000-08:00

Hey peeps, just wanted to let everybody know that I made it to Bend and back yesterday (I had to chain up the truck twice though) and all is well. Have a kick ass rest of the week!! This truck was in front of me on the way back and it took a corner a little to fast!!!

Curt

DELIVERING BEND TOMORROW

2010-11-28T16:50:00.000-08:00

The joys and benefits of being me never seem to end!! Because of vacations etc. yours truly gets to deliver to our vending partners in Bend, Or tomorrow. Actually this is good because I haven't seen my people there in probably to long. And I will get a chance to brush up on my truck driving in the snow skills!!! Oooh and what a great opportunity to take along a couple of Turkey sandwich's !!!! I hope everyone has a great Monday and welcome back to the GRIND peeps !!!!

Curt

TURKEY COMA AND THE DAYS THAT FOLLOW

2010-11-27T13:26:00.000-08:00

YUMMY!!!!

G'day Peeps, I have finally started to come out of the Turkey induced coma and started making the Turkey soup with all of the left over Turkey. One of the best things I love about Thanksgiving is the Turkey sandwich's for days and days afterword(Shara doesn't even really like turkey so more for me). But of course eating all of the turkey keeps me in a slight stage of unconsciousness! I hope all of you and your families enjoyed the time you shared together. Now it will be back to work on Monday and more turkey sandwich's for lunch!! Oh ya, hopefully you all took advantage of the sales that are going on this weekend and purchased my Christmas gift!! Curt

5 lb HERSHEY BAR GIVE-A-WAY

2010-11-24T14:17:00.000-08:00

Wholly cow you guys! YUMMY........Imagine one of the liitle kids on your Christmas list opening one of these bad boys Christmas Morning!!! You would be the world's favorite Mom, Dad, Uncle, Aunt, Gramma, Grandpa etc..... All you have to do is buy 10 sleeves of Hershey Product and you are entered to win !! Lets get on it people, we only have 2 of these monsters in stock!

MORE JAPANESE VENDING MACHINES

2010-11-24T10:40:00.000-08:00

Live Lobsters and Panties

Grow your own food in a vending machine!!

All Touch screen vending!!

Large Vending Machine Bank

Man the Japanese LOVE their Vending Machines. Here are just a few examples of the Machines that are used everyday in Japan!!

JAPAN LOVES THEIR VENDING!!!!!!

2010-11-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

I found this when searching through the Japanese Vending Industries Information files! It is funny!!!

Odd Japanese Blogs – The Vending Machine Report

June 22, 2010 — qjphotos Yesterday, I posted about the Tokyo Kaidan DB (Tokyo Stairs Database), a meticulous cataloging of stairs in Tokyo. Today’s blog is the second of five himajin (someone with too much time on his hands) blogs that I’m writing about this week. It’s called: “I take photos of a vending machine (almost) every day. Sorry.” The blog has been going since May, 2005, and has over a thousand posts.
An average day is just: “No change” like this:

Every couple of weeks, though, there’s a big excitement in the blog when there is a product change:

The blogger details all the product changes as follows:

If you’re wondering what in the world inspired something like this, it’s explained in the blogger’s profile:

Most-hated phrase: “Keizoku wa chikara nari (Keeping at something makes you stronger.)”
Favorite vending machine: It would be scary if I had one
Short note: I update this blog with a photo of the same vending machine every day (it was replaced on Aug. 8, 2009). I was planning to write every day, but sometimes I take a break. I’m not interested in vending machines and canned drinks.
I don’t like things that take a lot of work, so I tried to think of some kind of content that wouldn’t require any willpower and that I could finish in five minutes a day. That’s how I started doing this. When there are changes, it takes a lot of work, which makes me angry.
It’s like techno where a groove is created when similar things repeat while changing slightly. Sorry, for getting off topic.
I don’t like the saying, “Keeping at something makes you stronger.” I don’t think there are many phrases that are more insulting. Please use it for people who are so stupid you can’t think of anything else to compliment them on.

FIRST THANKSGIVING

2010-11-23T14:37:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving or Thanksgiving Day, currently celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, has been an annual tradition in the United States since 1863. Thanksgiving was historically a religious observation to give thanks to God.

The event that Americans commonly call the first Thanksgiving was celebrated to give thanks to God for helping the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony survive their first brutal winter in New England. The first Thanksgiving feast lasted three days, providing enough food for 53 pilgrims and 90 Native Americans. The feast consisted of fish (cod, eels, and bass) and shellfish (clams, lobster, and mussels), wild fowl (ducks, geese, swans, and turkey), venison, berries and fruit, vegetables (peas, pumpkin, beetroot and possibly, wild or cultivated onion), harvest grains (barley and wheat), and the Three Sisters: beans, dried Indian maize or corn, and squash.

HAPPY TURKEY DAY FROM ALL OF US HERE AT VEND NORTHWEST TO ALL OF YOU!!!!

SPOKANE

2010-11-23T11:13:00.000-08:00

Mrs.Wokals Mom & Dad live right up the road from here!!

Atleast we don't live in Spokane!! Look what Dave over at Empire has to deal with!! I don't think the Tri Cities are any better, are they Keith, Dave, Mike, Jeff???? I had to cancel my Seattle trip today just for the safety of things...... I hope all of you are out there being sensible. Peace and be SAFE !!!
As a side note....my buddy in Port Orchard lost all power and can't get off of his hill!! :-)

DELIVERING SEATTLE TOMORROW

2010-11-22T14:08:00.000-08:00

UGGGHHHHHH........... I hope it isn't to bad in the morning, Because of Vacations etc.....I pulled the "short straw" for delivering tomorrow, so unfortunately for all of you, I will be in a Semi on the roads in Seattle tomorrow!!! Actually I am pretty sure that I am the Worlds best truck driver so it shouldn't be to bad. It's kinda fun to get in a truck every once in awhile and get back to my roots!! I started driving truck in the Military and then followed up with Coca-Cola after that. So if your in Seattle tomorrow and you see a big truck with "Vend Northwest" on it.......MOVE!!!!!!

Curt

HORMEL MICROWAVABLES

2010-11-22T10:15:00.000-08:00

Hey Guys now is the time to fill those vending machines of yours with yummy warm comfort food that has a long shelf life so you won’t have to throw it away, also a great filler for “cold food” machines!!!
Here is our line of Microwavable products that we have in stock everyday!!
Call and place an order today!!

HOT FOOD / SOUPS
Order # N/P/H Description Size U/M WK1 WK2 WK3 WK4 Pallet Price Unit Price

HORMEL FOODS
45706 Chili w/Beans 7.5 oz $12.00 $ 1.000

02147 Clam Chowder 7.5 oz $10.05 $ 0.838
03159 Chicken Soup 7.5 oz $10.17 $ 0.848

42013 Spaghetti 7.5 oz $12.00 $ 1.000
41987 Lasagna 7.5 oz $12.00 $ 1.000

LARGE 10oz ENTRÉE

23013 Hormel Chicken Brst/Mashed 10 oz $11.69 $ 1.948

18737 Hormel Lasagna Entrée 10 oz $11.69 $ 1.948
35031 Hormel Chicken Alfredo 10 oz $11.69 $ 1.948

30323 Hormel Meatloaf/Mashed Potatoes 10 oz $11.69 $ 1.948
48279 Hormel Beef Tips W/Mashed 10 oz $11.69 $ 1.948

51546 Hormel Santa FE Chicken 10 oz $11.69 $ 1.948

CURT WOKAL
VP OF OPERATIONS
VEND NORTHWEST DISTRIBUTING
SKYPE CURTIS.WOKAL
OFFICE 1-503-262-8288
FAX 503-262-8243
CELL 360-521-4722
WWW.VENDNORTHWEST.BLOGSPOT.COM

PAY BY TEXT

2010-11-19T16:05:00.000-08:00

How cool is this??? Text the machine and make your selection and the charge goes onto your cell bill!!!

SMART VENDING

2010-11-19T15:58:00.001-08:00

WOW!!!!!!!!!!

MRS. FRESHLEY RAISES PRICES

2010-11-19T14:07:00.000-08:00

Flowers Bakeries Bakery Snacks
5087 E South Royal Atlanta Drive
Tucker, Georgia 30084
t 770.723.0173
f 770.496.1664

To: Flowers Foods Vend Distributors

Re: November Price Increase

Due to increasing costs of ingredients, packaging, healthcare, and other costs, we will be taking a modest price increase. This will be effective with orders you place with us starting Monday, October 25th for Monday sales November 1st (product we deliver to you on October 30th or 31st).

Please see the attached price list with the increases highlighted.

We appreciate your business and support!!

Sincerely,

Cliff Whitehead
Cliff Whitehead, NCE
Vice President/Director of Vend Sales
Flowers Bakeries Bakery Snacks

WEEKEND IS HERE!!!

2010-11-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

OMG people, this week was crazy, hectic, exhausting, stressful, exciting, interesting, and did I say CRAZY? I for one am going to embrace the next 2 days with such a zombie attitude that I expect NOTHING to be accomplished at the Wokal household. I can't help it, I am tired! I spent a couple days on the road this week and met up with ALOT of customers. And now today I am trying to follow up, catch up, stay ahead and slow down so I can enjoy the "smooth sailing into the weekend".
Take time to smell the roses or the fertilizer people, you are only going to be at this point in your life ONE time, so it is important to pay attention to what and who you are giving your moments in time to!!! PEACE, Curt

WIZARD BACK IN THE NORTHWEST

2010-11-16T09:42:00.000-08:00

Look what the HEAVY winds blew in,The Wizard of Oz(Singh Arora) is back in the Northwest trying to get some more business! He has already successfully "bought" Evergreen Vending's loyalty and is looking to disrupt our market even more!! He and his wife Mani own a Independent Master Vend Distributorship in Northern California and has a DEEP dislike for Vistar (don't we all) Anyway i wanted to let you guys know that he is up here this week trying to get some of our and some of Vistars customers, I don't think anything good can come out of another distributor up in our market but maybe he knows something different. PEACE!!!! Curt

NEW DISTRIBUTOR PROMOTION

2010-11-15T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hey People I need some feedback, you know I love making our customers feel like they are part of our whole process in bringing in product and deciding what sells and what does not. So I would love your help in coming up with ideas on how we can capitalize on the whole Vistar raising their prices without telling any of their customers! We would like to offer something to get them to try us and see if we would be a viable solution for them if they wanted to get out from "under" the Big "V" but we would also like to run this with a current customer appreciation deal for our customers that already are using us and know how much better and more customer oriented we are than "Big Brother" and have been devoted to us for a long time! So tell me your thoughts??? Maybe delivery's free for awhile or discounts across the board or whatever?? Let me know what would best help all of you in these difficult times!! PEACE, Curt

NOVEMBER PRICE INCREASES ???????

2010-11-11T13:12:00.000-08:00

So......what is going on over at the Big "V" ?? If any of their customers happen to pay attention to the November Vistar catalog, they will have noticed that almost EVERY item increased in cost by .85% up to 1.25%! WTF????? What is the motivation behind this?
I mean other than we all are not making enough margin but still to just take an increase and not really notify anyone of your customers? Maybe they did inform them but nobody I have talked to was aware of it.
The only Manufacturer price increase that we are aware of for November came from Pierre. What happens when all of the Manufacturers take an increase in January?
I would like you all to know that Vend Northwest will not be taking ANY price increases the rest of the year unless it is warranted by a Manufacturer increase.
Things are soooo tight right now that it is very difficult to understand why they would choose to do this. Maybe it was a corporate directive, who knows but it must be nice!! I also want you all to know that we honor and respect all of our customers and know that we are all in this together and that is the way we will make it through this very tumultuous time in the economy! Thanks for listening! Curt

VOTE NOW

2010-11-01T08:32:00.000-07:00

OMG........I will be sooooooo glad when November 2nd comes and go's! I am ver tired of all of the junk mail and phone calls, in a way it's like you get punished for voting because then they (politicians) seem to think they have the right to totally inundate you with their hoopla. How many trees do you think were chopped down for this voting season? Here's a thought; how many fliers that you received were printed on recycled material and said so?? Actually that's a great question, I would bet that could sway somebody's opinion one way or the other. Anyway I just wanted to Rant about how disgusted I am with all of the Crap. Just VOTE and get it over with!!!!

POSITIVE ATTITUDES GO ALONG WAY

2010-10-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

Hey guys the Director of the Napoleon Hill World Learning Center at Purdue University Judy Willamson recently wrote an article that I thought was very good and of use to us all so I wanted to share.
Here it is in its Entirety:

Admit it. At times it is difficult to maintain a positive mental attitude. Life takes its twists and turns, and sooner or later things that we label "bad" come our way. The cycle of life has both high points and low points as well. We can see this cycle played out in nature in the seasons, in the stock market, in the life span of all living things, and in the blessings and adversities that life hands to us. Without the "bad" we would not appreciate the "good." For us to know the blessings that we have received from the Creator, it is a requirement to know what lack of these gifts would be like too. Dr. Hill states: "In every adversity and defeat, there is a seed of an equal or equivalent benefit." When we ponder this thought and look for the seed of benefit, it should be no surprise that Infinite Intelligence could be handing us a real pearl of great worth. But, first we must pry open the shell to find the pearl hidden inside.
In maintaining a positive attitude it is a prerequisite that we cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Be thankful for the small gifts, and then you will be more receptive to the big ones when they show up. At night, express gratitude to the Universe for the good things that have come your way during the day. For example, you might express your gratitude at having a friendly waitress who attended you at dinner, for the gift of health insurance when you receive your flu shot, for the electric lights that permit you to read at night, for the gift of a friend who phoned or emailed you when you needed someone to talk to. You get the idea. Make a list of ten simple gifts that you received during the day, and practice positive self-talk as you drift off to sleep. I guarantee that you will be more positive in the morning when you remind yourself at night just how lucky and gifted you really are.
So, to be positive day in and day out over the long haul takes practice and endurance. It is not pre-programmed or hereditary, but the result of self-discipline. Bad news is that you have to install the hardware and software yourself, but the good news is that it will endure for a lifetime if you remember to apply it.
Be Your Very Best Always,.
Judy Williamson

What I particularly like is the fact that she repeatedly says "self-talk", this way she is able to reach out to a much greater number of people and not alienate anyone. Hopefully if everyone takes her advice we would all benefit from a much nicer and more profitable world in which we live!!

Curt

PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARDS

2010-10-07T15:10:00.000-07:00

Hey Peeps, as you all know it is that time of year again when we all vote for our peers who go above and beyond what is expected of them. I know you all know this because I have emailed all of you repeatedly while attaching the Voter form and telling you to vote for me! :-)
Anyway I wanted to throw in my two cents for the Broker Rep of the year. Stu Case NCE5 has been in the industry for more years than I am old (just kiddin Mr.Case) He has ALWAYS done way more for us here at Vend Nw than is expected from any Broker. This year especially he had a huge obstacle to overcome with the sale of his company (Pacific Brokerage) to a National Brokerage firm. The transition as perceived by us on the outside looking in appeared to go off without a hitch and Stu stayed true to himself as the helpful and understanding guy that he is.So from me to you Mr. Case Kudos.
To all of you who have still not had the chance to vote I hope that you read this article and consider the words that I have written here regarding Stu! He is extremely worthy of the recognition and I hope he gets It !!!

Regards,
Curt Wokal

THINKING OF YOU RUSS EDWARDS

2010-10-06T13:52:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share a personal matter that has been on my mind as of late with you guys. My father in law tripped and broke his arm the other day while traveling in their RV through Kansas. He had his surgery yesterday morning and things haven't really gone as planned. Circumstances have arisen due to his being diabetic etc. I would really appreciate it if all of you could keep him in your thoughts. He is a great guy and we love him very much. It's weird to think that something as minor as a broken arm and shattered elbow can then turn into quite a different scenario. Anyway I wanted to share with you guys just in case I seem to be kind of spacey or out of it. Thanks in advance for your understanding. "Thinking of you Dad"

Thanks To All of You
Curt

COMPASS GROUP GOBBLES UP ANOTHER INDEPENDENT

2010-10-05T11:05:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys just wanted to let you all know that the Compass Group (Canteen Refreshments) has bought out another one of the soon to be extinct Independent Vending Companies. This time the victim was Fred Lee Distributing in Salem, Oregon. Unconfirmed sources say that Fred Lee had up to 10 vending routes and Canteen got it down to 3 by their standards. This is just another in the long list of Independent Distributors that have either became franchises or corporate accounts of the International Conglomo known as Compass Group. This is just another reason why I always tell you guys how important it is to be involved in your local and national vending trade groups. We all need to band together so that we are able to respond to events in the industry with one organized voice. Keep up the good fight peeps!!! Curt

NEW SCHOOL APPROVED DORITOS !!!

2010-09-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, I wanted to share with you some GREAT news from Frito Lay!! And believe me that it's not very often that we get great news from Frito!! Anyway, they have came out with 2 Great new Doritos for schools that meet the 35-10-35 rule (actually 35-5-0). These are both available now so call me and get them on your order!! Dorito Spicy Sweet Chili and Dorito Spicy Nacho!!!

THE MORE YOU THINK ABOUT IT

2010-09-24T09:34:00.000-07:00

A lot of people give me the excuse "curt it is just to much of a hassle to switch from one distributor to another". My thinking is, why would you not change if it is easier, cheaper and to have a distributor that has their finger on the pulse of the industry would make it that much less of a "hassle". Now I understand the intitial start up would be a little inconvenient, but I would be more than willing to share the track records of vendors that have switched from them to us and show that we have increased their bottom lines and relieved a ton of stress that comes from dealing with a mega conglomo!!. Anyway thats my "rant" for the day!! Have a super weekend peeps!!!!

STILL MORE ATTA BOY'S

2010-09-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

WOW, It is a VERY good day when we receive 2 letters saying how much we are appreciated. So here is another one for your reading pleasure! Again the names have been blanked to protect the innocent!

Curt,

Just to be clear, you make doing business here easy. Like I have said many times working together is allot easier than fighting back and fourth. Like with Vistar.

I am really glad that we got you back on board with us. It really doesn't seem like anyone notices all the hard work we both do. But as long as we have each other we will make things work.

Have a great day, and thank you.

BLANK

Very Respectfully,

ATTA BOY VEND NORTHWEST

2010-09-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

Hey people, I wanted to share with you a letter from a customer that we received recently. It is ALWAYS nice to receive these types of things because you can share it with your entire team to help with confidence and build teamwork! I have "deleted" the Names to help protect the innocent from the CONGLOMO factions at large! :-)

Curt,
I am cc’ing (blank) so you will have his information. We also want to thank you for NOT giving up and know that we need your company to stay alive. If you fail there is nothing from stopping the other guys from raising prices. I am certain you will get more of our business as time goes on. Like I said before (blank) is the main guy to convince given that it is his branch. Next time you are in town let’s all go to lunch. (blank) is very open minded and always looking for a great deal (I know because I helped train him) I strongly believe we can grow a great partnership. You went above and beyond by jumping in a truck and making the delivery yourself, that shows your commitment to good service.
Nice Job dude!
Regards
BLANKETY, BLANK, BLANK

POST JUST TO POST?

2010-09-10T08:51:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness you guys, I just realized that I haven't posted anything on the blog for a couple of weeks and I'm feeling kinda bad! It has been soooooo busy with the Schools all kickin in and gearing up for the new year that I am (sorry to say) letting some of my duties slide! lol......I promise to post lots of noteworthy stuff on the Blog in the next couple of days!!! Curt

MORE ABOUT COFFEE

2010-08-27T16:14:00.000-07:00

CLEVELAND, Ohio -- Niki Gillotta, owner of Gypsy Beans & Baking Co., has tried for months to hold off raising the price of her coffee.

But after trimming other costs, she said she's finally realized she can't afford to keep absorbing the escalating cost of raw coffee beans -- which recently touched a 13-year high.

So after Labor Day, she'll raise coffee prices by a nickel to a dime per cup at her Detroit Avenue bakery and cafe on Cleveland's West Side

A combination of bad weather, increased competition for smaller supplies and the tumbling value of the U.S. dollar has pushed raw coffee prices sharply higher. And prices are expected to stay high through the end of the year, both at the grocery store and at the coffeehouse.

Raw green coffee beans that cost 46 cents a pound in 2001 were going for $1.53 per pound last month, according to the International Coffee Organization in London. Sterling Smith, market analyst with Country Hedging Inc. in St. Paul, Minn., expects raw coffee to hit $2 a pound.

This year alone, the cost of highly prized arabica beans has jumped as much as 33 percent, to more than $1.80 per pound, a reflection of the increased demand for what is expected to be an inadequate supply.

Coffee producers, supermarkets and coffee shops are all adjusting their prices as the more expensive beans work their way through the global supply chain.

"Everybody is in the same boat that's in the coffee business," said Carl Jones, founder of the Phoenix Coffee and Arabica coffeehouses.

"The factors of it are often different, but the fact of it is always the same. . . . Everybody's been eating price increases for the last six months."

Among the increases this month:

• The J.M. Smucker Co., which owns best-selling brands Folgers, Dunkin' Donuts and Millstone, raised the prices of its U.S. packaged coffees by an average of 9 percent.

"We're pretty transparent about our pricing, and that's given us tremendous credibility with our consumers," said Richard Smucker, executive chairman and co-chief executive of the Orrville-based food maker, which buys 40 percent of its coffee beans from Brazil.

He said the company has lowered prices in the past and will do so again when coffee goes back down.
• Kraft Foods, maker of Maxwell House and Yuban coffees, announced it was raising prices as well -- by 30 cents per pound for ground coffee and 2.5 cents per pound for instant coffee.

• Sara Lee, whose brands include Douwe Egberts and Senseo, said it too, was raising prices, but it didn't specify what brands or by how much.

On the other hand, Starbucks Corp. said it expects to "absorb" nearly $30 million in higher commodity costs this fiscal year, "primarily related to higher coffee prices."

The nation's largest chain of coffee shops said because it buys its beans from multiple coffee-growing regions, it expects to weather the short-term fluctuations in coffee prices.

But shoppers are more likely to notice higher prices in the coffee aisle than at their favorite neighborhood cafe, because grocery stores make much smaller margins on sale and don't have the wiggle room to swallow big jumps in cost.

Buehler's Fresh Foods, with stores in Medina County, has raised prices for Folgers and Maxwell House about 10 percent, said Bob Buehler, vice president of marketing and merchandising. He expects the Scenic River Coffee brand to go up by about the same percentage in October.

"We are holding off on retail price increases as long as our current inventory will allow," he said. One supplier told him another 10 percent increase may be coming later this year.

Jeff Heinen of Heinen's Fine Foods said that while his stores' prices for national coffee brands have risen about 10 percent, he is not changing prices for the private-label Heinen's coffee or for Two Brothers bulk coffee.

A Giant Eagle spokesman declined to comment on that chain's pricing strategy.

The good news about coffee is that prices can fluctuate just as dramatically the other way, and an upcoming coffee harvest is expected to bring prices down by the spring, said Smith, the market analyst in Minnesota.

In the meantime, slightly higher prices don't deter most java junkies from buying their favorite brew.

"Usually you just ride this stuff out" until prices come down, said Jones, the Phoenix and Arabica founder who just opened C. Jones Books & Tea in Cleveland Heights. "You don't make as much money, but you're not beating up your customers."

COFFEE INCREASE

2010-08-26T09:48:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, this is across the board!! All manufacturers seem to be increasing 6-30% !! Time to tighten the belts and increase coffee prices!! :-(

July 15, 2010
To Our Valued Customers:
Sara Lee Foodservice remains committed to aggressively driving efficiency within our supply chain organization to help offset escalating commodity costs. However, due to the unexpected rise in green coffee market costs (41% increase since last Roast & Ground pricing action and 25% increase since last DE Cafitesse Liquid action), we have determined it is necessary to take a pricing action.
As a result, we will be implementing a national list price change on the following Sara Lee Foodservice categories effective August 15th, 2010:
Operator contract pricing on coffee products will be adjusted in accordance with the terms of the existing agreements.
All orders received with standard lead times prior to August 15, 2010 will be invoiced at current price levels. In order to ensure proper service for all customers, it may be necessary for Sara Lee to limit orders to average levels as determined by Sara Lee based on a customer’s purchase history. Backorders will not be created in the event an order needs to be adjusted.
In order to provide you better clarity to the three components of the Sara Lee Beverage value proposition (Ingredients, Equipment, & Service), we will provide specific commentary on the impact of price changes on all elements. At this time, there is no change in pricing associated with Equipment or Service.
Please contact your respective Sara Lee representative should you have any questions regarding these changes.
We will continue to monitor the developments in the green coffee commodity markets and make adjustments as changes in those markets dictate. Thank you for your business and your continued support of Sara Lee products.
Sincerely,
Christopher J. Johnson
Vice President, Beverage Sales
Sara Lee Foodservice
Products
List Price Change
Roast & Ground Coffee
$0.40/lb
Douwe Egberts Cafitesse Liquid Coffee
$2.50 - $4.00/case

GOLF SIGNUPS

2010-08-23T13:21:00.000-07:00

Ok people 4 days left to get a hold of us and put your name in for the golf on Saturday!! But just remember if you don't sign up that just gives me a much better chance to win all of the fantastic prizes that we have amassed for this years awards!! :-) I can't wait to see you all on Saturday out at Lewis River!!! Curt

SOCIAL MEDIA

2010-08-19T16:20:00.000-07:00

How cool is it that now a days you can almost control your business destiny or direction that you want your business to go in with all of the different social media avenues that we all have available to us today. The more you use these options Face Book, Linked In, Blog spot, the more your name and message comes up in searches. Example: Google "Curtis Wokal" it comes up ALLOT. Which is great for Vend NW because pretty much anything with my name in it, Vend Northwest is connected to it! So in essence we are controlling the destiny of the business as far as the Internet is concerned. A number of new customers have found us via this way. So if you have 10 or 15 Min's roughly 3 times a week, i would start blogging, Face Booking, etc and get your good name out there!!

Curt

5TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

2010-08-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

Hey guys, time is running out to sign up for the Golf Tournament on the 28th of August at Lewis River Golf Club !! This will be the 5th time that Vend Northwest has hosted the event and it is ALWAYS a blast!! So hurry up and get in on it!! There is also room for some sponsors left as well!!

PRICE INCREASE ON HOT POCKETS!!!

2010-08-02T10:34:00.000-07:00

July 30, 2010

Dear Valued Customer:

Effective September 1, 2010, there will be a price advance on a selection of Nestlé Professional skus. The decision to advance prices was driven by significant cost increases. These include:

I. Commodities:
Commodity prices increased over the past year as economic growth accelerated. The value of the S&P GSCI, a broad index of commodity prices, rose 10% during this period of time; investors are betting more gains lie ahead.

• Milk prices are 53% above last July and at the highest level since January 2009. Rising dairy costs could add further pressure to margins for dairy processors.
• Cheese prices have risen over 25% y/y since May 2009
• Nonfat Dry milk has increased 50% y/y since May 2009
• Cocoa up 20% has increase y/y since May 2009
• Sugar up 36% has increased y/y since May 2009
• Beef up 20% over 2009 year average

II. Energy
• Oil prices have risen 11% y/y since May 2009
• Natural Gas prices have risen 13% y/y since May 2009.

III. Packaging
• Polypropylene resin prices rose 22% in 2010
• Corrugate linerboard prices rose 16% in 2010

Effective with orders with a requested delivery or pick up date on or after September 7, 2010, the following products’ prices will be:

Hot Pockets 8 oz - All SKUs Increase Amount 5%

Hot Pockets 4 oz - All SKUs Increase Amount 5%

Hot Pockets 3 oz - All SKUs Increase Amount 5%

Should you have any questions, please contact me at 972-236-1298. Thank you for your continued support.

The Very Best,

John Choukalas
Nestlé Professional

WHEN IS IT TIME TO BAIL?

2010-08-02T09:47:00.000-07:00

When do you know that maybe the vending industry isn't doing it for you anymore and how do you go about getting out?
For years a lot of us have joked about the "vending mafia" and about when your in, you are in for life. This seems to be the case with a lot of the salesmen and brokers that are in our industry. They tend to leave this company or that only to surface again with another company.
But I am more talking about the fact that when you lose the drive or the passion and don't care anymore about the customers. Do you get out or do you stay just so you have something to do everyday?
I would think that with the passion gone, it would be hard to work everyday just to work? My initial thought is that with the attitude you would have, customers and businesses would start to take notice and work off of the "feeling" that you are giving them and start to look for other Vending companies to take care of them and their employees as apparently you no longer care about their well being.It is simply self preservation on their part.
Also I would think the decision would be economically based even more so now than in the past. Simply because of the way things are now days.
I guess that it is a combination of things then that would determine if the timing was right for you to "bail" or not. As with anything in this life there are a plethora of choices and it is up to you to choose right or wrong for you. Peace!!

Regards
Curt Wokal

GROWTH AND CHANGE

2010-07-21T08:23:00.000-07:00

Is growing your company possible without implementing changes? I would love to hear thoughts on this. I am not talking about changing your companies fundamental values or beliefs, I am more speaking of things like purchasing Practices, Credit extensions, Inventory control, Items carried on the books, etc.
In my opinion it is a lot easier if you are part of a giant corporation (assuming you have some pull) to implement changes compared to if you own your own company or work for a smaller more personal thinking company.
A lot of things seem to be scarier when YOU are in charge of feeding 5,10,20 families or however many employees you may have, your decisions directly impact the people you see in the office everyday. How do you know which changes to embrace and which changes would be disastrous for you to undertake?
If you are a small company I guess you could hire a consultant but if it was me I would rather put my ear to the ground and try and learn what is going on in the field that I am interested in growing. Find out what customers are doing and what they want maybe even get some commitments if it is change like bringing in "new products". Talk to everyone, your contacts can prove to be a very reliable link to the pulse of your industry.
Again you guys, I am very interested in hearing from everyone on this subject as we too are always looking for new ways to sell and grow and communicate with our customers.

Regards
Curt Wokal

As a side note the "Globe" in the picture on this post used to be in between the Twin Towers in Manhattan. It was found (in this condition) in the rubble of the towers after they fell. It is now located in Battery Park in lower Manhattan. It is truly a testament to the change that is constantly taking place all around us.

BEING PREPARED

2010-07-16T08:30:00.000-07:00

Recently I was "on the road" speaking with customers and was reminded of how important it is to be prepared with information on the wares that you are trying to sell to your customers. I was in a particular customers office catching up and trying to sell him on a line of product. This product was kind of set up through a third party so I really wasn't aware of all the info he was given and I wanted to just touch base with him and let him know that we were going to go ahead and start bringing the items in.
In a very nice and professional manner(as not to hurt my feelings)customer "x" proceeded to explain to me his "selling" techniques and the power point that he uses EVERY-TIME when courting new accounts. This really got me to thinking about all of the ways and tools that we have now days to help us in our careers. As in any career it is very important to come off extremely professional and to be knowledgeable of what you are doing. Customer "x" then proceeded to tell me the story of a salesman coming in and wanting him to purchase a certain line of product but had no sell sheets or any kind of pricing info whatsoever. Ultimately he refused to buy and gave the salesman (i assume) the same lecture as I had just received. Anyway thats it, I wanted to remind us all that it is very important, critical actually to have all of your ducks in a row before sitting down in front of customer "x" .

Regards
Curt Wokal

DECISIONS, DECISIONS

2010-07-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

How do you know that the choice you have made or are about to make is the right choice for you and your business? Answer; You don't. But you do know how it makes you feel to choose the way you did and really that's all that you can go by. If you feel it was right then all that you can do is nourish and guide that decision to hopefully the outcome that you were expecting. If not then you should reverse the situation and change course. There is no disgrace in admitting that you were wrong and doing everything you can to remedy the situation. We all have choices to make in life that are sometimes easy and a lot of times hard, what matters is not whether those choices were made right or wrong but instead of how you handle all choices. It is much easier to deal with the wrong choice made when you have friends, partners, family to help you navigate through the decisions. We at Vend NW understand this and that is why we pride ourselves in the relationships we have with our customers, we all understand how important it is to have somebody standing by your side through the good times and the bad! I personally make the wrong decisions sometimes just like everyone else, but I have learned that it is much better to admit to everyone that it was the wrong decision to make rather than just keeping on in the same wrong course that i am heading. I really believe that you will find(as i have) that your friends, family and colleagues will respect you and stand by you without hesitation! So go ahead and try it......Lean on somebody ! We are all on this journey together and sharing it with people is always better than attempting it alone.

Regards
Curt Wokal

VENDING COMPANY IN NEW YORK

2010-07-12T16:09:00.000-07:00

This is a truck that was loading machines in a bldg in New York

EMPIRE STATE BLDG

2010-07-02T09:31:00.000-07:00

CENTRAL PARK

2010-07-02T09:30:00.000-07:00

HI FROM TIME SQUARE

2010-07-01T06:41:00.000-07:00

Hi Peeps!! I just wanted to say hi and tell everybody how much i miss them all!! 2 more days in the Big Apple and then off to Playa Del Carmen for a week and then back to work with all of you!! Peace Out!!!

E-THOUGHT

2010-06-24T08:14:00.000-07:00

When deciding what to put in your machines, what criteria do you use to choose the items? Is it price? Availability? Popularity? Or do you just not care and just want to fill up the "holes" in the machines? Hopefully the latter is not one of the pre requisites. I would always choose popularity and then price. Availability does matter to a certain extent but if it is to expensive and not available then it really doesn't come into the equation.
Many people ask me everyday what to put in their machines and the first items out of my mouth are always the ones that not necessarily sell best for me, but rather the items that seem to be bought in the store by the majority of our customers. I could have 1 big customer that buys 100 cases of 100,000 bars but that doesn't necessarily mean that it sells for everybody.
And then there are always those locations that don't sell anything that sells everywhere else! How do you deal with that? One of the ways would be to only buy "each's" for those machines but then you are paying a slightly higher price but at least you are not throwing as much product out?
Anyway, just a couple of random thoughts that I had going through my head this morning!! I hope everyone has a great weekend and continues to be the best Vendor/supplier they can be!!

Regards
Curt Wokal

6 DAYS UNTIL THE WEDDING

2010-06-21T08:46:00.000-07:00

So 6 more days until the big event!! I am so excited that i can barely concentrate on ANYTHING including the nuptials !! I wanted to say thanks for every ones support and positive affirmations of the event, I am very lucky and proud of all of the people that I (we) call friends. So that was it, We will see a lot of you next Sunday when we tie the knot!!! Curt

CUSTOMER SERVICE

2010-06-17T10:54:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday people. There are some things going on at present that reminds me of how important Customer Service can be to the sustainability of all of our companies.
Not only is it important that all of us provide outstanding products to our customers but also maintain a level of Customer Service that should not be surpassed by our competition. Although I personally would hope that everyone receives great customer service no matter where they purchase, sometimes for one reason or another some companies have or strive to maintain the minimum levels of Great Customer Service. I don't know if this trend is because of profitability, quality of workers, time it takes to accomplish this or what? I just know that personally for us at Vend Northwest this has always been the owners "pet peeve" and the rest of us as a company diligently work very hard at making sure that we do not "cross" their paths on this standard.
A lot of times customers are even willing to pay a little more just for the peace of mind knowing that they are working with a company that truly "has their back". This is also one of the reasons I chose the tag line "Taking Business Personally One Customer At A Time". It really does sum up Vend Northwest perfectly. When dealing with even the most "difficult" customers it is important to realize and remember that they too make your paycheck possible and they deserve the same level of respect and service as your "easiest" customer. We can all sell a cracker or bag of chips to somebody but it is a totally different feeling when a customer actively searches YOU out to buy their product from you solely because of your reputation for understanding and caring about them, your customer.
Anyway I just wanted to quickly remind us all of how important maintaining customer service was to the prosperity of our business's.
On another note, My wedding is 10 days from today and i can't even think straight i have so much going on!! A lot of you i will see at the wedding and the rest of you i wanted to thank for all of the well wishes and prayers that you have given to me regarding the event! (i might not remember to thank you later) :-)

Regards
Curt Wokal

AUTOMAT YAKIMA FILLS OTHERWISE DEAD SPACE

2010-06-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

Automat in Yakima Washington has come up with a revenue maker for themselves and their customer "Valley Mall" in Union Gap Washington. The mall is going thru several changes in upgrades trying to attract more and diverse exciting customers and businesses to their facility.The mall approached Jeff Hemp (Automat) about filling some store front vacancies until they could get them leased out to clients. Jeff and his design team came up with a Vending machine "bank" that was both innovative and attractive that would fill the otherwise un-sightly and empty space, all along providing undiscovered revenue for the Mall and Automat Vending. The end result was this "bank" of machines you see in the above picture. I thought this story was noteworthy because of all of our customers that have machines in various malls thru out the states that we service. This is a great idea for both the vendor and their customers, so if you have any of these locations with "empty" storefronts you might want to approach them with this idea!!

BRILLIANT job Jeff!!!! KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK!!!!!

Regards
Curt

HELP FIND KYRON

2010-06-08T08:28:00.000-07:00

Kyron Horman and his step-mother, Terri Moulton Horman, arrived at Skyline Elementary School around 8 a.m. Friday and attended a science fair at the school. Around 8:45 a.m. Terri said goodbye to Kyron and watched the second-grader walk down the hallway toward his classroom. Police say that the last time the boy was seen was about 9 a.m.
Please keep an eye out for the boy or anything that you think would help in the search for him!! If you have any info please contact your local authorities or 911

MOVING PRODUCT AROUND

2010-06-07T08:17:00.000-07:00

Now is a great time to start moving product around from one machine to another, especially in "school" related machines as these types of institutions will soon be out for summer break and why spend the money on new product when the product in these machines are still good.
This can save hundreds of dollars to your bottom line and help you potentially move some product that typically doesn't go so well.
This is just me trying to save our customers some money. This is also always a good idea when you have product in some machines that isn't moving. Swap into another one and another and another till you find the perfect fit for that product!!

Curt

MEMORIAL DAY

2010-05-28T15:15:00.000-07:00

Please remember our fallen brothers and sisters who have given the ultimate sacrifice for all of the freedoms that we so greatly appreciate every day of our lives!!

MANUFACTURER DEMO

2010-05-21T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hey Peeps, We wanted to let you know that we will have a representative from Kellogs, Biscomerica, Poor Bros, Brownie Baker, Gavina Coffee, Marachaun and Mrs Freshley in the warehouse next Wednesday the 26th and Thursday the 27th between the hours of 10 AM and 2 PM. They will be handing out samples and answering any questions that you may have regarding purchasing programs and rebates as well as general knowledge questions about their products. So don't miss this! It's a great opportunity for you to voice your compliments and complaints. You might also recieve some "deals" for the two days that they are here!!! Curt

E-THOUGHT FOR THURSDAY MAY 13, 2010

2010-05-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday people!!
Are Manufacturers "discounting" them selves out of sales? It makes me wonder because they seem to have A LOT of different options out there for this company or that, and they are all different. Meanwhile unless your are this company or that your pricing is so expensive that it is barely feasible for you to make your margins.
It just seems that unless you are a multi-million dollar vending company everything is working against you and it shouldn't be that way. Every company and every person that is out there now is imperative to the health and welfare of our industry and the Manufacturers should look at it that way.
If there are only 2 Vending companies in the world how many outlet options does that leave the Manufacturers to sell their wares? And who is gonna decide the pricing? The Manufacturers? NO, the companies that have the end user accounts of course. Where as if there are 50,000 vending companies there is a much greater chance of reaching different demographics of people and thus selling much more product and making much more money. So instead of offering this guy or that guy a "back door" deal because they are huge, why not just offer everybody the SAME deal and attach a quantity to it?
If you buy 300 cases you receive this much money? Oh Mfg's will tell you that this is how it works anyway but it is a little more complicated than that. It's just ridiculous all of the variables that they use to "calculate" their deals. I just don't understand(well actually i can) how and why they have gotten to this point. I think the only ones that would have an objection to a "restructuring" of deals thru Mfg's would be the large vending companies that benefit so greatly from the way it is now. Now i don't want some of you to take this the wrong way as i do believe that the reason some companies are so large is because they have worked very hard and diligently to grow their business and take care of their customers, Bravo to them. The issue is now those companies have such high operating overhead that they depend on these "discounts" to make enough money to survive. So even though they are getting the product at a much lower price they can't afford to sell it for less than the operator who is paying an arm and a leg for it.
I just think that we really need to take a hard look at our industry and try to figure out not only this issue but others that we can change to keep our industry alive and well! It could only benefit us all, ya know? Again this is only my opinion and thoughts, I don't intentionally mean to hurt anybodies feelings only to make us all think past the ends of our noses.

Regards
Curt Wokal

ALL IS WELL

2010-05-06T09:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Thursday people and to all of you that are mothers(you know who you are) Happy Mothers Day on Sunday!!
I wanted to take a minute and tell you all that there A LOT of things going on in our market that some of you may or may not be aware of!
Some of you may benefit from these changes and some of you may not....I would hope that all of us will benefit in one way or another.
While I was at the Vending show in Chicago last week, I spoke with a lot of manufacturers about pricing and about how some of them are pricing themselves out of the market. Some of them agreed and some of them had a lot of excuses. Some of them promised me that we would be seeing some big pricing changes for the better, so we will see.
I also wanted to remind all of you that Vend Nw is here to stay and are willing and excited about helping you and your company be the most competitive and excellent company that you can be. If there is ever ANYTHING that we can help you with, please don't hesitate to call Steve or myself with any questions or concerns that you may have.
The Vending Industry is really changing and I truly believe that if we all stick together and have a solid united voice, we can do anything that we set our minds to.
Thanks to all of you for continuing to support us as you are our most important asset and we will always look forward to helping you all in any way that we can!

Regards
Curt Wokal

CHICAGO TRAIN

2010-05-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

Pierre & Three Dog Night

2010-04-29T20:11:00.000-07:00

On the floor at Nama

2010-04-29T10:11:00.000-07:00

DOWNTOWN CHICAGO

2010-04-29T07:24:00.000-07:00

USG RECEPTION AT THE FIELD MUSEUM

2010-04-29T07:22:00.001-07:00

Nama Show

2010-04-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hey Guys, I just wanted to say that I am headed to Chicago on Wednesday for the Nama Convention and I will be doing some Mobile Blogging from the floor so make sure you guys check the blog frequently towards the end of the week!! Curt