The Novel Idea Vending machine was the brainchild of Paul O’Carroll and John Costello whose plan was to create a ‘Mini-bookshop’ which would allow customers to purchase books 24 hours a day.

Paul and John established their company, Novel Idea Vending in 2001 in Limerick, Ireland, and subsequently spent approximately a year and a half trying to source a company to assist in the research and development of the machine.

In 2003, they were introduced to Darenth MJS who, who are the current Machine Manufacturers who market leaders in all types of incup and snack vending machines who were eager to help in the research and development of the ‘Mini-bookshop’. Darenth were very keen to come on board and have worked closely with Novel Idea Vending since.

In May 2005 the Novel Idea ‘Mini Bookshop’ was launched at the Avex International Vending Exhibition which took place at Earls Court, London. Over the 3 day exhibition the interest in the machine was overwhelming and it took the fair by storm.

Following the show further minor refinements and adjustments were made to the machine and some new features added which have enhanced its user friendliness to the customer.

In November 2005 the ‘Mini-Bookshop’ was launched to the Irish Market at a high profile affair in Limerick. The event was attended by many well know authors such as Sheila O’Flanagan, Paul Williams, Sophie King, Preethi Nair, Brian Keenan, Kate Thompson and Moss Keane amongst others. A number of high profile Irish Politicians including the Minister for Defence, Willie O’Dea also attended.

At the event, Novel Idea Vending issued a Press Release announcing that they had negotiated a contract with the British Airport Authority to install the Vending Machines in all BAA airports in the UK starting with Gatwick.