Retrofitting of some vending machines to 3D VIS specifications began in January 2010, while 2011 will see both older models being replaced by the new standard machine as well as new installations of the 3D VIS.

Besides boasting a distinctive “three-dimensional” appearance that can induce consumers to purchase a product from it, the machine is characterised by several environmental features:

• Natural refrigerants hydrocarbons or CO₂
• Incorporation of heat pump technology
• Mini solar panel mounted on top of the vending machine to provide for night-time lighting at zero energy consumption
• Energy-saving LED lighting

The device further offers many non-cash payment options too, allowing consumers for example to make cashless purchases of Coca-Cola products using their mobile phones.

The company plans to install 75,000 of these new machines in 2011 alone, while it aims to have all of its 980,000 vending machines converted to the 3D VIS or future HFC-free models by the end of 2020.

About vending machines in Japan

With more than 5.4 million vending machines, Japan has the highest concentration in the world. Of these, an estimated 2.4 sell drinks and of those approximately 980,000 belong to Coca-Cola Japan.

Considering these numbers, the potential of direct emissions reductions if all vending machines are switched to natural refrigerants, is immense.