NAMA Show's 'Imagination Way' will pair innovations with consumer environments in an interactive exhibit

The National Automatic Merchandising Association will host an experience-based exhibit that pairs new technologies with locations at its upcoming trade show in Chicago. Dubbed Imagination Way, the new NAMA Show attraction is described as an interactive gallery that puts the "edgiest emerging technologies and service solutions on display and in the hands of attendees."

From self-service kiosks to unattended dining and stores, Imagination Way will try to demonstrate how convenience services technologies can be leveraged in different consumer environments, trade association explained.

“Imagination Way reflects consumer demand for greater control of retail encounters, more options and flexibility in retail locations, and ubiquitous availability of better-for-you and fresh on-the-go food and beverage options," said NAMA president and chief executive Carla Balakgie. "The result is an inspired look at how consumer interactions with retail are shifting and how the most routine purchases will be made in the near future.”

The experiential exhibit will showcase products, equipment, best practices, technology and merchandising tactics in real-world retail scenarios. Show participants will be encouraged to put these new solutions to the test and consider their possible applications in functional displays. Experts will be on hand to help them imagine how new features can be applied to existing operations.

Imagination Way will focus on four consumer venues:

• transit and transport centers;
• multi-family and campus housing;
• senior living and healthcare;
• and hotel, lodging and hospitality.

Imagination Way will be located at the entrance to the NAMA Show's exhibit hall at Chicago's McCormick Place. The three-day event runs from April 6 to 8, 2022. Go here to learn more about NAMA's trade show and conference.