Interview with Steve Herzic
Image Source: Created by Vending Connection
As the vending and office coffee service (OCS) industry continues to evolve, operators are being pushed to think beyond traditional equipment and into experience-driven, health-focused solutions.
At this year’s The NAMA Show, one area to watch closely will be Imagination Way—a space dedicated to innovation and forward-thinking concepts. Among the exhibitors making their debut in this space is a company that, while relatively under the radar in the U.S., has been quietly building advanced beverage technology for decades.
Their message to operators is simple: the future of refreshment is already here. It just hasn’t been widely adopted yet.
From Behind the Scenes to Big Debut in America
Though new to many in the vending channel, the company behind systems like TopBrewer and its newer TopHealth platform is far from new to the industry.
“We’ve been here a long time—over 60 years,” explained Steve Herzic, Country Manager for North America. “For years, we were manufacturing for other brands. Now we’re really stepping forward with our own technology.”
The shift from OEM manufacturer to branded innovator is part of what makes their presence at NAMA significant. For many operators, this will be their first opportunity to see, touch, and taste these systems in person.
And according to Herzic, that’s when the difference becomes clear.
“We sell everybody when they can use it and taste it. Once they experience it, it’s a no-brainer.”
Why Water Is Becoming the Next Big Opportunity
While coffee has long been the cornerstone of OCS, water is quickly emerging as a major growth category—especially flavored and functional water.
Industry trends point to:
- Increased demand for healthier beverage options
- A shift away from sugary drinks
- Growing interest in hydration and wellness
“Flavored water is becoming a boom market,” Herzic noted. “It’s expanding rapidly and will continue to grow into a multi-billion-dollar segment.”
For operators, that means water is no longer just a basic offering—it’s becoming a premium, customizable product category.
Moving Beyond Bag-in-Box
One of the biggest disruptors in this space is the move away from traditional bag-in-box systems.
Operators are all too familiar with the challenges:
- Heavy, bulky shipments
- Storage constraints
- Product waste from leaks or damage
- Frequent service visits
Newer systems, like the TopHealth platform, take a different approach by using highly concentrated flavor pouches that dramatically reduce logistics.
“You can produce thousands of drinks from a very small footprint,” Herzic explained. “Instead of shipping large boxes, you’re shipping something that fits in your hand.”
For operators, this translates to:
- Lower freight costs
- Easier route management
- Reduced physical strain on staff
- Less product loss
Built for Today’s Workplace Expectations
Modern workplace clients are asking for more than just beverages. Today, they’re asking for amenities that support employee well-being.
That’s where systems like TopHealth stand out:
- Natural fruit-based flavors (no added sugar)
- Optional vitamins and electrolytes
- Customizable drink strength and composition
- Still, cold, and sparkling water options
“There’s a real push from companies to promote healthier habits,” said Herzic. “If you can help employees drink more water instead of soda, that’s a win—for them and for the company.”
For operators, this creates a new kind of sales conversation that is focused on wellness, not just convenience.
Technology That Works for Operators
Beyond the end-user experience, one of the biggest advantages for operators is what happens behind the scenes.
These systems are deeply integrated with cloud-based technology, offering:
- Real-time usage tracking
- Ingredient level monitoring
- Remote troubleshooting and control
- Data-driven maintenance insights
“We can see every drink that’s made, monitor levels, and even activate functions remotely,” Herzic said. “In many cases, we can solve issues before a technician ever needs to go on-site.”
That level of visibility helps operators:
- Reduce service calls
- Improve uptime
- Optimize routes and inventory
Flexibility in Monetization
Another key advantage is flexibility in how operators deploy these systems.
Depending on the location, operators can:
- Offer beverages as a free employee perk
- Charge per drink
- Create tiered pricing (e.g., free water, paid enhancements)
This adaptability makes it easier to place units in a wide range of environments—from corporate offices to fitness centers and beyond.
Why Imagination Way Matters
For Herzic and his team, exhibiting on Imagination Way at The NAMA Show is an excellent opportunity to gain visibility and show the future of water filtration and OCS technology.
“This is really our debut in this channel,” he said. “A lot of people just don’t know we exist yet.”
Imagination Way, with its focus on innovation, provides the perfect setting for operators to discover solutions that may not yet be mainstream, but could soon become industry standards.
And importantly, the machines on display won’t just be concepts because they’ll be fully functional.
“People can walk up, grab a coffee, try the water, and experience it for themselves,” Herzic added.
What Operators Should Look For
As you walk the show floor this year, especially through Imagination Way, consider how emerging technologies like these fit into your business. For TopHealth, these three things matter most:
1. Taste
If it doesn’t taste good, nothing else matters.
2. Flexibility
Systems should adapt to both operator and user needs.
3. Technology
Data and remote capabilities should simplify operations, not complicate them.
The Takeaway
The vending and OCS industry is at a turning point. Operators who embrace innovation—particularly in high-growth areas like water and wellness—will be better positioned to compete and grow.
Solutions like TopHealth represent more than just new equipment. They signal a broader shift toward:
- Smarter systems
- Healthier offerings
- More efficient operations
And for many operators, The NAMA Show may be the first chance to see exactly what that future looks like.
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