Headed to the 2026 NAMA Show in Los Angeles? This episode of Automatic Merchandiser's Vending & OCS Nation podcast is your insider guide to making the most of your trip - inside and outside the convention center.

Podcast host Bob Tullio highlights the must-see booths at this year’s show, featuring cutting - edge innovations in AI, smart retail, and frictionless commerce. Then, he interviews downtown LA expert Johnna Hughes, who maps out the best places to eat, explore, and what you must see, just steps from the convention center.

Whether you're chasing the future of unattended retail, looking for the next big thing in point of use water, seeking the hottest new snack, the coolest looking micro market fixture, an awesome single cup solution, or the perfect taco and rooftop cocktail, this episode has you covered.

• 365 Retail Markets (Booth 1221)
  • Flexible, modular smart store solutions
  • AI-driven insights + next-gen Pico kiosks
  • Expanded reach into healthcare, campuses, and hospitality
• Panoptyc (Booth 1561)
  • Live ShopperSense theft deterrence demo
  • New “Market Health Tool” for predictive risk insights
  • Data-driven tools to boost profitability
• Cantaloupe (Booth 1233)
  • Fully immersive smart store experiences
  • New Hot Hold solution for fresh food
  • AI-powered route optimization + business intelligence tools
• The AVS Companies (Booth 1731)
  • Full lineup of AI-powered smart coolers
  • Multiple AI approaches tailored to different operator needs

DTLA tips from Johnna Hughes

• Grand Central Market
• TE Isshoku
• Broken Shaker
• 71Above
• Fugestu Do
• Sonoratown
• The Wolves