New Developments in Vending Machine Business in the UK

In the UK, JRE Business Development UK Limited (UKBD), a local subsidiary of the JR East Group, acquired all shares of Decorum Vending Limited in 2024 and has been operating a vending machine business with approximately 1,000 units, mainly at stations. Recently, the company acquired the vending machine business of Petrie Gough Limited, which operates approximately 800 units at major UK airports including London Heathrow and Gatwick. This expands the operation to transport hubs at airports in addition to stations, bringing the total number of units to 1,800. Moving forward, the group will combine its operational expertise with smart retail technology (unmanned, contactless, cashless, AI, data analysis, etc.) to deploy products and advertising promotions utilizing foot traffic and purchasing data. In the future, the company aims to expand into other European countries by leveraging networks with local partners, and to enhance the quality of life by providing Japanese food and products. This is part of the lifestyle transformation (LX) set forth in the JR East Group's management vision, "Move Up 2034."