ARLINGTON, Va. – The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) today released the following statement from Mike Goscinski, senior director, external affairs, regarding the Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act, which would provide $60 billion in relief for small businesses.

“While we appreciate the relief extension for businesses that were unable to access grants before funds were exhausted, vending operators have been restricted from eligibility, despite the critical role they play in getting consumers access to food and beverages.

NAMA worked closely with the Small Business Administration (SBA) to ensure clarity for NAICS code restrictions that would allow operators with blended business lines to access the grants. But traditional vending businesses are still not eligible for RRF grants. NAMA research shows 50,000 jobs in the convenience services industry (28.74% of the industry) have been lost as of September 2020, and that number is likely significantly higher today. RRF eligibility is critical for these small businesses in their efforts to return to a sustainable level and continue to serve Americans where they work, play and go to school.

Now is the time to rectify the mistake of excluding hundreds of small businesses that are still reeling from the effects of the pandemic. We urge Congress to rectify exclusions and allow eligibility for traditional vending operators in the Restaurant Revitalization Fund Replenishment Act.”

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