Penguin installs book vending machine in Exeter

Penguin Books has installed a book vending machine in Exeter as part of a new partnership with Exeter UNESCO City of Literature and Great Western Railway.

The publisher said the move harks back to when, almost 90 years ago, Sir Allen Lane was “inspired to found Penguin Books after he couldn’t find a good book to read at Exeter St Davids station.” It added: “We’ve gone back to our roots to ensure that Exeter’s commuters won’t face the same problem with the Penguin Books vending machine.”

Supplied by Southwest-based vending machine company Graddon Vending, the machine sits in the entrance to Exeter St Davids train station. Titles will change on a regular basis, featuring new releases and “perennial favourites”, as well as marking key moments throughout the year, such as LGBTQIA+ History Month, Black History Month and COP28.

Profits from the vending machine will support Bookbag, a local independent bookstore, and Exeter City of Literature, who promote literacy and celebrate books in the local area. Zainab Juma, head of brand at Penguin, said: “When Exeter City of Literature approached us about the Penguin Books vending machine, we knew immediately that it was the perfect way to celebrate our origins.

“Whiling away your time with a book is one of the great pleasures of train travel and this machine is just what our founder Allen Lane would have wanted to see as he set off on his journey. We’re especially pleased that the vending machine will benefit Bookbag, a local independent bookstore, and Exeter City of Literature who do brilliant work celebrating Exeter’s literary history and making books and reading more accessible in the local community.”