Jersey's Slice Of Japanese Vending Culture

Friday, 19 January 2024 10:30

Islanders can now beat those midnight munchies at a 24-hour store in town inspired by Japanese vending machine culture.

24/7 Vend Store is opening today on York Street in town and will be the first shop of its kind in Jersey.

As islanders enter the shop, they will be greeted with vending machines stocked with snacks and drinks, healthier alternatives and baked goods.

One of the founders of 24/7 Vend Store, Miguel Ribeiro, found photos of Japanese vending machines online and thought there was a gap in the market in Jersey.

He says he wanted to make sure everyone has access to supplies and snacks at all times of the day.

"You know whether you're working at midnight, 3:00 am, 7:00 in the morning, midday, I just want to make sure there's something for everyone at every time of the day."

24/7 Vend Store will have an extra shop space in the daytime for islanders to pick up essential items, and then at night, when the shutters come down, it will turn into a vending machine space.

There is high-tech security equipment in the store to ensure customers are safe.

"Security will be nearby in case anyone's trying to shake the machines, anyone's trying to sleep in the premises, smoke in the premises, if there's any sort of altercation in the premises, there will be nearby security who will be called into the premises straight away."

CCTV cameras are installed, allowing security staff to hear and watch what is happening in the shop.

People having problems with the vending machines will also be given a number to call to receive a refund the next day.