Self-Service

Sprite machine reacts to what irks Gen Z

Image: Adobe Stock.

July 14, 2023

Coca-Cola Europe has introduced a vending machine that is able to recognize what bothers Gen Z consumers based on real-time input from social media, news media, departure boards and other sources, according to marketingtechnews.com.

As heat rises in response to a frustration, the machine dispenses a can of cold Sprite.

The Sprite branded machine was created in partnership with WPP, a London-based company that describes itself as a creative transformation company, according to TheDrum.com.

After launching such a machine at London's King Crossing on Wednesday, the company is rolling more machines throughout Europe.

So far, the top 20 "hot and bothered" moments for Gen Z are:
1. Stepping in dog poo.
2. People who cough without covering their mouth.
3. Queue jumpers.
4. Not getting a "thanks" after holding the door open for someone.
5. People who chew loudly.
6. People who talk loudly all the way through a film.
7. Rude waiting staff.
8. Kids running around restaurants.
9. Having someones' sweaty armpit in your face on a crowded train or bus.
10. Parents who don't tell their kids to be quiet.
11. People walking slowly on the pavement.
12. Crowded buses or tubes with sweaty passengers.
13. Smashing your phone screen.
14. People putting their feet on the seats on the train.
15. Train cancellations.
16. People walking while looking at their phone.
17. Playing music without headphones in a public space.
18. Train delays.
19. Partner snoring loudly.
20. Pointless meetings.