Travel retailer rolling out airport vending machines with PPE products

Travelers on the run will have an option if they leave their facial mask or hand sanitizer at home. 

Hudson—which has more than 1,000 stores in airports, commuter hubs, landmarks and tourist destinations across North America—is rolling out vending machines stocked with personal protection equipment to leading airport destinations across North America, starting in late June.

By the end of the summer, Hudson plans to have installed the vending machines in 27 of the nation’s leading airports as well as the Houston Space Center. The vending machines, which are ADA compliant, will be located in pre-security locations. Each will be stocked with a variety of essential products — ranging from face masks to gloves and multi-use thermometers—which can be purchased with a credit card, allowing for a 24/7 retailing experience. 

The vending machine’s touchscreen will be sealed with an anti-microbial shield that eliminates germs on the surface for three to four months before replacement. Social distancing floor decals will be placed around the machine to maintain crowd control.

The items include a custom-designed line of health-and-safety offerings sourced and manufactured in the U.S., marketed under Hudson’s proprietary brand line, “Traveler’s Best.” Items include PPE, cleaning products, and ultraviolet LED light sanitizing technology.

In certain airports, travelers will also be able to purchase name brand electronics and travel essentials from the vending machines, including charging cables and wireless headphones.