Bluebox Smart Ice and Water Partners with Core-Mark to Transform Convenience Store Ice Distribution
Bluebox Smart Ice and Water's inclusion in Core-Mark's Core Partners program signals a major shift in convenience retail ice distribution, addressing chronic industry challenges through automated vending technology and revenue-sharing models.
Bluebox Smart Ice and Water has been selected as a Core-Mark International Core Partner, positioning the innovative ice vending company for accelerated growth across North America's convenience retail sector. The partnership, effective January 2026, provides Bluebox with exclusive access to Core-Mark's extensive marketing resources, promotional capabilities, and trade show visibility as a top distributor in the convenience retail space.
The selection recognizes Bluebox's unique approach to addressing persistent challenges in the retail packaged ice industry. According to Ben Gaskill, CEO of Bluebox Smart Ice and Water, traditional ice distribution faces multiple operational hurdles including delivery delays, stock shortages, labor inefficiencies, product damage, theft, and limited availability during business hours. The company's Ice-as-a-Service model offers a comprehensive solution to these longstanding problems.
Through the Core Partners program, Bluebox gains access to Core-Mark's extensive network of retail customers and sales expertise, accelerating the deployment of automated ice vending solutions. The partnership creates a streamlined channel for convenience store operators to adopt proven, low-maintenance ice solutions without the burden of initial ownership costs or complex management requirements. Martin Carbajal, Retail Solutions Program Manager at Core-Mark, emphasized that Bluebox's operating model aligns with Core-Mark's mission to deliver innovative services to customers.
Bluebox utilizes Everest's VersaVend patented ice vending technology through an exclusive licensing agreement for the convenience store market. The technology produces two tons of fresh ice daily with demonstrated 99% uptime reliability. The equipment operates 24/7 and includes comprehensive service coverage for delivery, setup, preventative maintenance, and repairs. The company's revenue-sharing model eliminates capital expenditures, equipment costs, maintenance responsibilities, and storage requirements for store operators, effectively transforming convenience stores into automated profit centers.
The partnership represents a significant advancement in convenience retail operations, offering store owners a turn-key solution that addresses both operational inefficiencies and profitability concerns. Core-Mark, as part of Performance Food Group, serves as a leading distributor to convenience retailers across North America, providing products, technology, and services designed to enhance store profitability and operational excellence. Additional information about Bluebox's innovative approach to ice distribution is available at https://blueboxiceandwater.com.