Christine Cochran on CTW and NAMA's support of OCS, pantry service

The workplace has changed, but the demand for dependable coffee, water, food and refreshment services remains strong. On this episode of Automatic Merchandiser’s Vending & OCS Nation podcast, presented in cooperation with NAMA, host Bob Tullio welcomes Christine Cochran, NAMA’s President and CEO, for a conversation about the opportunities ahead for OCS and pantry service operators. Nearly one year into her role, Cochran shares what she’s learned from visiting member businesses across the country. She discusses how operators are responding to changing customer expectations, rising costs and new technology and why their ability to deliver personalized service remains so valuable. The conversation also previews the 2026 Coffee, Tea and Water event, November 18–19 in Austin, Texas, where Tullio returns as emcee. Cochran highlights education focused on sales, executive leadership and operators new to pantry service, along with the value of connecting with peers and suppliers in a more intimate setting. With CTW not taking place in 2027, Cochran explains the thinking behind that decision and outlines NAMA’s plans to support the OCS and pantry community throughout the year. She also discusses advocacy work involving tariffs, PFAS, single-use plastics and caffeine labeling and why association involvement can help busy operators stay informed and prepared.