The Self-Service Innovation Summit is now the Automated Retail and Kiosk Innovation Show (ARKI), an event focused on the future of automated retail, December 10-12, 2025, in Tampa.
Reflecting on last year’s Self-Service Innovation Summit brings it all into sharp focus. It was my first dive into this world, and one thing was crystal clear: this industry isn’t standing still. Not for a second. The sheer diversity and speed at which self-service tech is finding new applications is incredible. If the technology is nimble and constantly-evolving, then shouldn’t our gatherings be too?
That’s why I’m so excited to share some big news: the Self-Service Innovation Summit is leveling up. Get ready for the Automated Retail and Kiosk Innovation Show (ARKI)!
Mark your calendars for December 10-12, 2025, because Tampa, Florida, is going to be the epicenter of all things automated retail. ARKI isn’t just a name change; it’s a deep dive into the cutting-edge technologies and trends that are shaping the future of how we interact with self-service. Think of it as the place where groundbreaking innovation meets real-world application in the automated retail space.
This isn’t just for one niche either. ARKI is bringing together a fantastic mix of people – professionals from banking, retail, foodservice, entertainment, vending operators, you name it. We’re all converging to explore the latest and greatest in self-service solutions. From the nuts and bolts of kiosks and vending machines to the actual products finding new homes through these systems, ARKI promises a truly comprehensive look at the entire industry.
“Retail, banking and restaurants are just some of the major industries driving the exploding self-service market,” Kathy Doyle, CEO of Networld Media Group, said of the launch. “This is an important conference for suppliers of ATMS, kiosks, vending machines and self-service checkout systems. Digital solutions enhancing CX and reducing staff costs will continue to push this market forward at an accelerated rate.”
Two tracks, one comprehensive vision
To make sure we cover all the angles, ARKI will feature two dedicated content tracks:
- The automated retail track: Get ready to dive deep into the world of automated commerce. We’re talking vending machines, smart retail setups that are changing the game, the ever-present coin-op operations, the growing micro-market trend, the exciting world of autonomous retail tech and even the innovations happening in amusement and gaming.
- The kiosk track: This track will explore the wider world of self-service technologies. Think beyond just dispensing products – we’ll be looking at interactive digital displays that are engaging customers in new ways, the crucial payment solutions that power these systems, making sure everything is accessible to everyone, the ever-present need for robust security, the software platforms that make it all tick, the power of digital signage integration, the convenience of mobile payment systems, the role of loyalty programs in this space, and even the evolving role of ATMs in our increasingly cashless society.
Together, these two tracks are designed to give everyone attending a complete picture of the trends and innovations that are going to define the future of automated retail.
Steering the course: The ARKI Show’s steering committee
Behind the scenes, guiding the vision for ARKI is an exceptionally qualified steering committee. Joining me in reshaping this event are key players in the self-service and retail worlds:
- Jeremy Cauble from Canteen North America, offering insights from the convenience services industry.
- David Golden, sharing his perspective on integrating tech in transportation hubs at Tampa International Airport.
- Steven King of Blue Sky Robotics, representing the cutting edge of automation technology.
- Alejandro Rodriquez of Amerikiosks, with a strong focus on automated retail.
- Bill Stutzman from Ventus, providing expertise in strategic initiatives.
- Ben Wheeler, “The Kiosk Guy” himself, from IncrediVend Skittles Remix Kiosk, highlighting innovative vending concepts.
- And of course, Dave Wurm, representing the show’s host, Networld Media Group.
“It’s a new day as they say,” said Wurm. “We are trying to fill the void in the kiosk space by bringing all kinds of applications under one roof so they benefit by hitting all kinds of industry at one moment in time”
“We’ve been covering the kiosk space for over 20 years and with the acquisition of Vending Times back in 2020, it was time to change the nomenclature that encompassed both those entities. There’ll be more booth space along with sponsorships that offer up the opportunity to be part of the content as before.
“If your solution fits in the mold of helping businesses or consumers, you don’t want to miss this event in Tampa. We’ll have a little fun too.”
The goal is to bring together a high-powered audience – the decision-makers from venue operators, convenience services, technology vendors and consumer goods companies.
As the industry continues its rapid evolution and automated retail technologies become increasingly sophisticated, the transformation from the Self-Service Innovation Summit to ARKI makes perfect sense. This isn’t just a conference; it’s a sign of the times.
Ready to join us in Tampa? You can find more information and register here.
About Networld Media Group
Founded in 2000, Networld Media Group is a leading media communications company specializing in digital media, events and associations in the technology, restaurant, banking, and retail industries. It’s media brands include ATMmarketplace.com, DigitalSignageToday.com, FastCasual.com, KioskMarketplace.com, QSRweb.com, RetailCustomerExperience.com and RewardsThatMatter.com. Events under the Networld umbrella include the Fast Casual Executive Summit, Restaurant Franchising & Innovation Summit and Restaurant Catering Workshop.
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