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Bluebox Joins Core-Mark's Elite Partner Program to Revolutionize Ice Vending

Bluebox Smart Ice & Water joins Core-Mark's Core Partners program to bring automated ice vending to convenience stores across North America starting January 2026.

This partnership matters because it addresses fundamental inefficiencies in the $5 billion packaged ice industry that directly affect consumer access and convenience store profitability. Traditional ice distribution faces chronic issues like stockouts, limited hours, and logistical challenges that leave consumers frustrated during peak demand periods like holidays, weekends, and summer months. By introducing automated, 24/7 ice vending through a service model that requires no upfront investment from retailers, this collaboration could transform how consumers access ice while creating new revenue streams for convenience stores. The timing is particularly relevant as retail automation accelerates and businesses seek capital-light solutions in an inflationary environment. For consumers, this means more reliable access to ice when they need it most, while retailers benefit from additional profitability without operational headaches.