Hot drinks vending machine company MannVend has employed two more people.

The company recently welcomed Tori Smithies as service centre co-ordinator, and Daniel Amphlett as new business executive.

Tori is now the first point of contact for customers with queries about equipment including vending machines, espresso coffee machines and water coolers - and co-ordinates daily tasks for engineers.

Daniel is responsible for building relations with customers and focuses on the company’s increasingly popular Vegware range of plastic-free compostable products made from plants that includes cups, plates, cutlery, and bin liners.

MannVend now employs 32 staff including engineers, account managers, customer service, delivery, and admin staff.

Managing director Tracey Leahy said: ’We are delighted to welcome Tori and Daniel to our team at what is a very exciting time for the business.

’The success of our Vegware range has been a source of significant growth ever since we added it to our product portfolio in 2016.

’More and more businesses and consumers are becoming interested in environmentally-friendly compostable products.

’We have seen a substantial increase in demand this year, including at events such as the TT, Manx Grand Prix, and Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival.’

MannVend has been looking into how to compost Vegware coffee cups and will be announcing a food waste composting facility in 2019.

The company is also supporting Beach Buddies by promoting the charity’s work in adverts on vending machine screens across the island.

The environmental charity’s founder, Bill Dale BEM, said: ’Our volunteers have increased by 250 per cent and the responsible disposal of litter is now a topic of conversation on local social media every day.

’The message is certainly being communicated and we are grateful for the support from MannVend.’

MannVend recently received independent recognition for consistently achieving high standards in its business operations. Since 2002 the company has achieved the rigorous standards required to be awarded the internationally recognised ISO 9001 accreditation.

The accreditation is awarded for a three-year term, and following the latest reassessment MannVend has achieved the most up to date standard - ISO 9001:2015 - for consistently meeting customer and regulatory requirements while also striving to improve processes.

MannVend celebrated its 50th anniversary last year.

It began trading as Mannin Tea and Coffee and became MannVend in 1994.

Tracey Leahy, managing director since 2008, is the third generation of the Leahy family to lead the business which was founded by her grandfather and established by her father.

Bill Dale, left and Dawn Taylor, merchandising manager at MannVend

Tori Smithies

Daniel Amphlett