North America Micro Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Channel (Business & Industry, Education, Entertainment Venues, Travel & Leisure, Healthcare), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2023 - 2030

Report Overview

The North America micro market size was valued at USD 3,950.4 million in 2022 and is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.0% from 2023 to 2030. A high level of convenience and accessibility is provided by micro markets resulting in their increased demand and use. Micro markets are majorly located in public places such as airports, schools, and office buildings, and offer products such as beverages and snacks. These markets are 24/7 accessible to consumers enabling them to purchase products anytime according to their convenience, unlike traditional stores with fixed operating hours. In addition, these markets are integrated with self-checkout systems that further enhance consumers’ shopping experience by enabling efficient and quick transactions.

Advancements in technology drive the micro market. Along with self-checkout systems, these systems are integrated with mobile payment options, touchscreens, and barcode scanners which not only make the whole shopping experience efficient and seamless but also eliminate the need for cashiers and reduce waiting times. The real-time data analytics and inventory management systems integrated into micro markets enable the operators to track sales, and stock levels, and analyze product pricing and offerings.

Moreover, the growing awareness and acceptance of micro markets among consumers is a significant factor in further surging market growth. As more consumers are experiencing the benefits and convenience of micro markets, their demand is increasing continuously, resulting in their increased installation. Additionally, marketing and promotional efforts are also increasing by micro market operators to educate consumers and generate awareness among them regarding the advantages of such retail models.

Consumers are actively becoming conscious about their health and are emphasizing wellness and a healthy lifestyle. Owing to this trend, major markets are providing consumers with healthier food options, including protein bars, fresh salads, sandwiches, gluten-free snacks, and others. In addition, various markets also offer allergen labels and nutritional information enabling consumers to make informed choices. The increasing emphasis on wellness and health results in a growing demand for healthier food options and aligns with the offerings by the micro market, thus contributing to market growth.

In addition, products offered by micro markets are not limited to beverages but also include personal care products, specialty coffee, fresh meals, and others. The expansion in product offerings by micro markets increases convenience and attractiveness as they act as one-stop shops and cater to a wide range of customers.

Moreover, micro markets are highly customizable compared to convenience stores and traditional retail vending machines. These markets can be personalized to cater to specific preferences and demands as per the location and preference of customers. This advantage of personalization enables the operator to choose product offerings depending on consumer trends, dietary requirements, and regional preferences, thus driving the market growth.

Furthermore, micro markets are a cost-effective alternative to traditional retail setups for operators. The operational expenses of the micro market are comparatively lower as it reduces space requirements and does not require cashiers. It also enables operators to combat challenges such as labor shortages. Additionally, it allows the operators to reduce waste, optimize inventory levels, and identify popular products among customers with the help of real-time integrated systems, which helps in cost savings.

In addition, ongoing technological advancements provide opportunities for innovation and enhanced customer experiences in micro markets. Integrating artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics can enable operators to gain insights into consumer preferences, optimize inventory management, and personalized promotions. Integrating mobile applications, digital loyalty programs, and contactless payment options can also enhance convenience and customer engagement.

However, traditional retail channels such as supermarkets & hypermarkets, convenience stores, and food chains have a significant presence in North America. These retail channels have extensive distribution channels, strong brand recognition, and an established consumer base, resulting in fierce competition. Thus, these retail channels restrain micro markets from gaining significant market share, especially in the regions with established retail stores.

In addition, high investment is required for infrastructure, equipment, and technology of the micro market. Setting up inventory management software, security measures, and self-checkout systems can be costly, specifically for organizations or businesses with limited resources. Additionally, some locations may also lack the required infrastructure such as network capabilities for the seamless operation of micro markets thus restraining the market’s growth.

Channel Insights

The education segment accounted for a revenue share of 4.8% in 2022. Micro markets in educational settings allow individuals to access a wide range of food and beverage options beyond traditional cafeteria hours. This is particularly advantageous for students who may have varying schedules, including early morning or late evening classes, study sessions, or extracurricular activities.

Micro markets provide a convenient solution for grabbing a quick snack or meal on the go, enhancing accessibility, and catering to different eating patterns Micro markets are known for offering a diverse selection of food items, including fresh and healthy options. Educational institutions can curate their micro market offerings to align with nutritional guidelines and cater to students’ dietary preferences and restrictions. This promotes healthier eating habits and ensures that students have access to nourishing meals throughout the day, supporting their overall well-being and academic performance.

The healthcare segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.2% over the forecast period.Micro markets offer convenient and easily accessible food and beverage options within healthcare facilities. They are strategically placed in areas such as hospitals, medical centers, and clinics, ensuring that staff, patients, and visitors have access to nourishment without leaving the premises. This convenience is especially important in healthcare settings where time is often limited, or mobility may be restricted.

Moreover, micro markets are highly beneficial in providing food and beverages in various settings, including correctional facilities, gyms, and military bases in the U.S. Micro markets allow inmates to customize their food and beverage selections, providing them with a sense of autonomy and choice. They can select items according to their preferences and dietary needs within the guidelines set by the facility. Micro markets in gyms provide access to a range of healthy food and beverage choices. They can offer protein bars, fresh fruits, salads, smoothies, and other nutritious options that align with the fitness goals of gym-goers.

Country Insights

The U.S. micro market was valued at USD 3,950.4 million in 2022. Micro markets have gained significant popularity in the business and industry sectors across the U.S. These self-service retail spaces provide a convenient and innovative solution for employees and customers to access a wide range of food and beverages without needing traditional vending machines or cafeteria services.

Manufacturing facilities and offices continue to house the majority of micro markets. The average micro market is at a location with 100-150 employees. According to Automatic Merchandiser’s State of the Industry report, micro markets maintained profitability in 2020, with 68% of operators reporting profit margins of 10% or higher, compared to 52% of operators in 2019. One of the key benefits of micro markets is their ability to cater to individual preferences and dietary needs.

The Canada micro market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 17.6% over the forecast period. Micro markets enable businesses to track purchasing patterns and gather valuable data on consumer behavior. This information can be used to optimize inventory management, tailor product offerings, and enhance overall customer satisfaction.

Micro markets also enhance convenience and accessibility. They can be installed in various workplace environments such as offices, factories providing employees and visitors with 24/7 access to food and beverages. This saves time and eliminates the need to leave the premises searching for meals, improving productivity and convenience for individuals with busy schedules. Such factors are contributing to the increased adoption of micro markets in Canada.

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Key players operating in the market are adopting various steps to increase their presence in the market. These steps include strategies such as partnerships, mergers & acquisitions, global expansion, and others. Some of the initiatives include:

• In June 2023, 365 Retail Markets, a leading provider of unattended retail technology, introduced its newest kiosk, the MM6 for Markets. This innovative kiosk is designed to offer market operators enhanced capabilities to drive revenue and address common challenges in the unattended retail industry. Its vibrant display, optimized self-checkout peripherals, intuitive user interface, and cash and cashless payment options make MM6 for Markets truly engaging for customers.

• In April 2023, Aramark Sports + Entertainment, a hospitality provider at nine Major League Baseball stadiums, underwent preparations to welcome fans back to the ballparks with enhanced ordering technology and fresh culinary offerings. The lineup included features like mobile ordering apps, self-service kiosks, and other digital platforms that make it easier and more convenient for fans to order food and beverages during games.

• In March 2023, Sodexo, a global food services and facilities management company, announced the introduction of fresh food vending through Yo-Kai Express at Lehigh University, Pennsylvania, marking an interesting development in campus dining. The Yo-Kai Express hot ramen noodle bowl machine serves options like Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen, Tonkotsu Ramen, Spicy Chicken Paitan Ramen, and Vegan Ramen.

Some prominent players in the North America micro market include:

• Canteen Vending Services

• Avanti Markets

• 365 Retail Markets

• Five Star Food Service

• Compass Group

• Aramark

• Royal Vendors, Inc.

• Sodexo

North America Micro Market Report Scope

North America Micro Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts growth at regional and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segment from 2017 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global North America micro market report based on channel and country:

• Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

  • Business and Industry

  • Education

  • Entertainment Venues

  • Travel and Leisure

  • Healthcare

  • Others

• Country Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2030)

  • North America

    • U.S.

    • Canada