Architectural Record today honored Vaask® as part of its annual Record Products competition, selecting the permanent hand sanitizer dispenser as the winner and best in class among kitchen and bath fixtures.
The Architect’s Newspaper today honored Vaask® as part of its Best of Product Awards, selecting the touchless hand sanitizer dispenser as the top furnishing accessory. Vaask received the same recognition last year.
Nashville airport puts germs on a no-fly list CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Nashville International Airport LOCATION Nashville, Tennessee PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing fixture, Material: Aluminum Challenge For a facility with over 25,000 people coming through the doors every day from all over the world, fighting the battle against germs requires a sophisticated game plan. For the Nashville International Airport, the recent resurgence of travelers added another level of urgency to those plans. In the midst of a major renovation, the airport had an opportunity to incorporate amenities to make travelers feel safer, including providing reliable access to hand sanitizer. They wanted to install recessed hand sanitizing fixtures throughout the airport, but the architects working on the project kept running into roadblocks. “We almost settled on one option, but installation would have been too complicated,” said TJ Ju, the lead architect on the renovation project. “We were resigned to specifying wall-mounted dispensers.” Solution Fate intervened when Ju came across Vaask at the American Institute of Architects convention in 2022. “I was immediately intrigued because they were such nice-looking fixtures,” Ju said. “When we understood how easy they were to install and maintain, we were sold.” Efforts to provide hand sanitizer at the airport had been problematic in the past. With such a high volume of foot traffic, typical dispensers were prone to breaking down. Too often, users would encounter units that were broken, empty or out of battery power. Vaask’s all-metal construction and 5-year warranty assured Ju the fixtures could withstand the high usage of an airport environment. The ease of maintenance was another big plus. “Our custodial manager is very excited that fixtures can be refilled with any sanitizing gel,” Nashville Airport construction manager Brice Latham said. “And not having to replace batteries will save money and make them easier to maintain.” The renovation team wanted to install recessed units to keep floor space clear for travelers hurrying through the concourse with their luggage. “The dispenser stands wouldn’t stay in the same place,” Latham said. “People kept moving them—the cleaning crew or airport staff, even passengers—and they often ended up obstructing the middle of the walkway.” Not only are the Vaask fixtures a natural fit in their locations throughout the concourse, installation was “a piece of cake,” according to Latham. The brushed chrome faceplate and arms have been a perfect match for the newly upgraded spaces where Vaask has been installed. They’ve worked out so well that additional Vaask fixtures are set to be installed on the ticketing level of the airport in the future.
Photos by: Justin Cordova, jacordova.com Hollywood Hotel Creates Gym Utopia CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Sunset Marquis Hotel LOCATION West Hollywood, California PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser, Material: Aluminum Challenge When your hotel’s regular clientele consists of Grammy-award winning musicians, such as Paul McCartney, Bono and Rhianna, and A-list celebrities, finding new ways to dazzle guests with unexpected details can be a challenge. Located just off the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, the iconic Sunset Marquis Hotel has served as a tranquil respite for entertainment industry notables, and anyone seeking an extraordinary hospitality experience, for 60 years. The acclaimed hotel went through renovations in 2022 that included adding a new on-site gym, called the Wellness Studio. As they designed the new gym space, Eric Rosen and Lesley Graham of Eric Rosen Architects wanted it to match the luxury ambiance of the rest of the hotel. Not only was it important to offer an extraordinary experience, they were also focused on meeting rigorous health standards to protect guests, including providing access to hand sanitizer. On their wish list was an attractive hand sanitizing dispenser that made efficient use of space. Solution As soon as the architects discovered Vaask, they loved the streamlined, modern look of the fixture. They were also impressed with how well it fit into the 800-square-foot space. “Being able to install it recessed into the wall meant it wouldn’t take up any valuable floor space,” said Rod Gruendyke, the hotel’s general manager. It also matched the high-end aesthetics of both the gym and hotel. Gruendyke put in the highly regarded NightBird Recording Studios when he recognized it was the perfect amenity for the hotel’s musically talented regulars. He was inspired to add an on-site gym when it became clear it was something the hotel’s privacy-seeking guests needed. The Sunset Marquis’ unique clientele seek out the hotel because the staff goes out of its way to protect them from inquisitive eyes. Although they are free to visit the exclusive EquinoxⓇ West Hollywood across the street, guests also wanted the ability to work out in a space as discreet as their own home. “They wanted to be able to bring their own trainers or security detail into the gym with them. So we created the Wellness Studio to give them that option,” Gruendyke said. Every detail included in the Wellness Studio had to meet a high bar for quality, performance and efficient use of space. The top-of-the-line TechnogymⓇ equipment has the versatility to be used for multiple exercises. Between the multigym, bench and TonalⓇ all-in-one machine, guests can perform hundreds of different exercises. Like the high-end equipment populating the gym, Vaask’s fixtures employ state-of-the-art engineering for long-lasting and precise performance. The all-metal construction and LED lights on the all-black fixtures add to their “cool factor,” Gruendyke noted. Two dispensers were installed in the space. One is just inside the entry door, and the other sits on the wall amid the exercise equipment. The ease of maintenance has been another bonus. Dispensers can be refilled with any sanitizer gel, and a quick swipe with warm water and a microfiber cloth keeps the exterior clean. Vaask’s precision pump mechanism and adjustable dispensing volume also prevent damage to the gym’s beautiful hardwood floors. “It’s great that we found a way to provide something as utilitarian as hand sanitizer in a way that makes people stop and take notice,” Gruendyke said. Ready to see Vaask in action? Sign up for a product demo.
Vaask is on tap at south Austin brewery CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Fast Friends Brewery LOCATION Austin, Texas PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser, Material: Aluminum Challenge As you step through the doors of Fast Friends Beer Co. in Austin, Texas, you are immediately surrounded by the theme of camaraderie and connection that is the foundation of the brewery. From the “Never met a stranger” slogan on the front door and T-shirts to the light-hearted “Beers make buddies” imagery, everyone is made to feel welcome. Fast Friends’ founder Dave Childress and his business partner, Christian Helms, were intent on making every detail of the space support a theme of building human connection. It’s all part of a broader mission in which the brewery helps financially support initiatives for positive change. One of those details was promoting cleanliness by providing ready access to hand sanitizer. Childress and his team believed encouraging good hygiene was especially important in a food service setting. But they wondered if there was a way to do so that wasn’t so clinical and sterile. Solution When Childress was introduced to Vaask early in the brewery’s building process, he realized the dispenser provided the innovative approach to hand hygiene he had been seeking. “With Vaask, guests are able to clean their hands while also interacting with our brand in a fun way,” Childress said. Each dispenser is adorned with the company’s logo, featuring a playful pair of beer buddies. The menu includes a range of culinary options and reflects the brewery’s emphasis on offering something for everyone. There are vegan and gluten-free options as well as “middle of the fareway” meat and cheese dishes. “We talk a lot about ‘wow’ moments at Fast Friends, about how we can take the ordinary and make it a notch more fun and unique,” Childress said. Evidence of this can be found in the design of the space and menu offerings. “Vaask gives us one more way to deliver a bit of surprise and delight to our guests.” The aesthetic aspects of Vaask are what initially drew Childress in, but the superior functionality made it a smart investment for the brewery. “The durability and longevity of the dispensers are features we really appreciate,” Childress said. “Plus, cleanup is a breeze, maintenance is a breeze and refilling is a breeze.” Ready to see Vaask in action? Sign up for a product demo.
Installing Vaask hand sanitizing fixtures in your space can help you meet green cleaning policy requirements toward earning LEED certification points.
California resort and casino goes all in with Vaask CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Yaamava’ Resort & Casino LOCATION Highland, California PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizer dispenser Material: Aluminum Challenge A world-class event venue, hotel and gaming facility, the Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, built by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, embodies the tribe’s long-term thinking. The Southern California resort features more than 400 guest rooms and spacious suites, an elevated pool deck and a lavish full-service spa and salon, all designed and engineered to last far into the future. Yaamava’ employees pride themselves on making sure guests leave remembering a great time in a luxurious setting, as the tribe knows that strong word of mouth and repeat business are crucial and they want the resort to be around and generating income for their descendants for generations to come. And while glamorous gaming halls, great food and big-name entertainers are what they want guests to remember, they also seek to provide an elevated experience across all aspects of their guests’ stays. During the pandemic, the resort and casino installed more than 200 hand sanitizing stations, but the plastic dispensers and bottles detracted from the elegant look so carefully curated throughout the complex. As the pandemic became endemic, the leaders at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino looked for a permanent solution for hand hygiene, which is particularly crucial in casinos where guests frequently touch cards, chips, slot machine handles and more. Solution Leaders at Yaamava’ discovered Vaask® touchless hand sanitizing dispensers at a conference and immediately knew they would complement the elevated experience they had infused throughout the resort and casino. Made of cast aluminum and steel, Vaask also epitomizes the built-to-last philosophy that’s so important to the tribe. “Vaask is innovative and pleasing to the eye,” said Samuel Ramos, assistant director of environmental services. “You don’t expect to see it just anywhere, and you have a real sense of luxury.” Ramos’ team installed Vaask dispensers throughout high-traffic areas, including the hotel lobby and spa entrance, as well as near the resort’s elevators. “Vaask elevates the areas and starts conversations. From the design to the lighting to the actual product, it’s something people haven’t experienced,” Ramos said, adding that the customization options allowed the resort to perfectly match fixtures in each area. Regarding installation and maintenance, Ramos’ team has found Vaask to be a welcome improvement over traditional plastic dispensers. And the guests can’t get enough. “They love the scent of the sanitizer gel and that it’s so easy on their hands,” Ramos said. Everyone who uses a Vaask dispenser returns again and again, just as intended by the leaders of a casino and resort focused on creating lifelong memories.
At Vaask, we’ve solved this problem with our online dashboard that automatically alerts maintenance staff when it’s time to refill.
College evokes school pride even with its hand sanitizing fixtures CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Emerson College LOCATION Boston, Massachusetts PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser Material: Aluminum Challenge For Emerson College, being a Division III school often means modest—albeit enthusiastic— crowds at home athletic events. But the passion and commitment of the 200 student-athletes at the Boston school is on par with any large university. Raising money for the athletic programs, however, is a bigger challenge for Stanford Nance, senior associate director of athletics for external affairs. One way he builds school pride and draws support for the program is by branding every available surface of the college’s athletic facilities with the purple and yellow Emerson Lions’ colors and logos. Nance had long wished to display the Emerson Lions logo on hand sanitizer dispensers to further promote the brand. But he wanted something with a classier look and needed dispensers that were more reliable. Solution During a visit to the NCAA convention, Nance stopped in his tracks when he came across Vaask’s hand sanitizing dispensers. “I knew they would be a slam dunk for showcasing the Emerson Lions brand,” he said. It wasn’t long before Nance had set up two customized Pedestal units in the athletic building. He strategically placed them in areas with high visibility and where they would get a lot of use. So far his plan to attract attention is working. “With the yellow and purple on a black background, the units are really eye-catching. Whenever anyone comes across them, they immediately say, ‘Wow, those are pretty cool,’ ” Nance said. The LED lights on the faceplate also draw people in. “They’re a game changer,” Nance said. The superior functionality of the dispensers also aligns with the image of the athletic program. Users can count on Vaask to come through every time they need it. With no batteries to replace, and the large, refillable sanitizer tank, maintenance has been a breeze. Nance enjoys knowing Vaask will be around for generations of students. “Vaask has made something that you don’t have to keep replacing,” he said. “They are so sturdy, they’re going to last forever.”
Texas Gym Members Strengthen More Than Muscles CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT MAC Speed & Strength LOCATION Plano, Texas PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser Material: Aluminum Challenge Jay McCareins knows the value of hard work and a hard workout. The former Princeton University standout and NFL player achieved his goals through determination and relentless training. Now he and his wife, Nikki McCareins, an accomplished track star, dedicate their lives to helping others get stronger, run faster and, most importantly, gain greater confidence. Since they opened the 5,000-square-foot gym MAC Speed & Strength in Plano, Texas, in 2016, the couple have helped adults and young athletes lead healthier lives. Their goal is to build strong, well-rounded athletes, but health and safety come first. Hand hygiene is a top priority, as it is at every gym and health club, where hands are constantly touching the equipment. Even before the pandemic, beyond spraying and wiping down machines, they stocked the “crappy plastic” bottles of hand sanitizer, Jay McCareins said. But they were a poor system for protecting members and staff. Solution A major point of contention was how the distributor pushed MAC Speed & Strength to stock pallets upon pallets of cleaning supplies and demanded locked-in contracts. “The bottles were upcharged from the distributor, along with I can’t tell you how many paper towels,” McCareins said. When he heard about Vaask’s touchless hand sanitizing dispensers and how the company never required locked-in contracts, he was on board right away. Everyone who enters MAC Speed & Strength makes a beeline for the Vaask dispenser, McCareins said, thanks to its elegant design and attractive, eye-catching array of LEDs. And unlike those “crappy plastic” containers that broke or flew open when a stray soccer ball hit them, “Vaask is indestructible.” While the old dispensers squirted a big glob of goo — when they weren’t empty — Vaask delivers a precise amount of sanitizer that feels and smells “like a gently scented body lotion,” he said, rather than rubbing alcohol. The touchless operation is also reassuring, he said, adding that using traditional dispensers almost leaves him feeling dirtier. Although McCareins appreciates Vaask’s aesthetics — the sleek shape and attractive matte & finish — he especially likes the lack of maintenance required. “It may be the only item in our facility that hasn’t needed maintenance since it’s been installed,” he said. And he loves that he’s no longer forced into a long-term supply contract of more sanitizers than he has closet space to store. McCareins has received endless compliments about Vaask. “We have physicians that use our facility, and they’re particularly impressed,” he said. Overall, he said he’d give the sanitizer an A+ for being exactly what a business like MAC Speed & Strength needs.
Architectural Record today honored Vaask® as part of its annual Record Products competition, selecting the permanent hand sanitizer dispenser as the winner and best in class among kitchen and bath fixtures.
The Architect’s Newspaper today honored Vaask® as part of its Best of Product Awards, selecting the touchless hand sanitizer dispenser as the top furnishing accessory. Vaask received the same recognition last year.
Nashville airport puts germs on a no-fly list CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Nashville International Airport LOCATION Nashville, Tennessee PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing fixture, Material: Aluminum Challenge For a facility with over 25,000 people coming through the doors every day from all over the world, fighting the battle against germs requires a sophisticated game plan. For the Nashville International Airport, the recent resurgence of travelers added another level of urgency to those plans. In the midst of a major renovation, the airport had an opportunity to incorporate amenities to make travelers feel safer, including providing reliable access to hand sanitizer. They wanted to install recessed hand sanitizing fixtures throughout the airport, but the architects working on the project kept running into roadblocks. “We almost settled on one option, but installation would have been too complicated,” said TJ Ju, the lead architect on the renovation project. “We were resigned to specifying wall-mounted dispensers.” Solution Fate intervened when Ju came across Vaask at the American Institute of Architects convention in 2022. “I was immediately intrigued because they were such nice-looking fixtures,” Ju said. “When we understood how easy they were to install and maintain, we were sold.” Efforts to provide hand sanitizer at the airport had been problematic in the past. With such a high volume of foot traffic, typical dispensers were prone to breaking down. Too often, users would encounter units that were broken, empty or out of battery power. Vaask’s all-metal construction and 5-year warranty assured Ju the fixtures could withstand the high usage of an airport environment. The ease of maintenance was another big plus. “Our custodial manager is very excited that fixtures can be refilled with any sanitizing gel,” Nashville Airport construction manager Brice Latham said. “And not having to replace batteries will save money and make them easier to maintain.” The renovation team wanted to install recessed units to keep floor space clear for travelers hurrying through the concourse with their luggage. “The dispenser stands wouldn’t stay in the same place,” Latham said. “People kept moving them—the cleaning crew or airport staff, even passengers—and they often ended up obstructing the middle of the walkway.” Not only are the Vaask fixtures a natural fit in their locations throughout the concourse, installation was “a piece of cake,” according to Latham. The brushed chrome faceplate and arms have been a perfect match for the newly upgraded spaces where Vaask has been installed. They’ve worked out so well that additional Vaask fixtures are set to be installed on the ticketing level of the airport in the future.
Photos by: Justin Cordova, jacordova.com Hollywood Hotel Creates Gym Utopia CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Sunset Marquis Hotel LOCATION West Hollywood, California PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser, Material: Aluminum Challenge When your hotel’s regular clientele consists of Grammy-award winning musicians, such as Paul McCartney, Bono and Rhianna, and A-list celebrities, finding new ways to dazzle guests with unexpected details can be a challenge. Located just off the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, the iconic Sunset Marquis Hotel has served as a tranquil respite for entertainment industry notables, and anyone seeking an extraordinary hospitality experience, for 60 years. The acclaimed hotel went through renovations in 2022 that included adding a new on-site gym, called the Wellness Studio. As they designed the new gym space, Eric Rosen and Lesley Graham of Eric Rosen Architects wanted it to match the luxury ambiance of the rest of the hotel. Not only was it important to offer an extraordinary experience, they were also focused on meeting rigorous health standards to protect guests, including providing access to hand sanitizer. On their wish list was an attractive hand sanitizing dispenser that made efficient use of space. Solution As soon as the architects discovered Vaask, they loved the streamlined, modern look of the fixture. They were also impressed with how well it fit into the 800-square-foot space. “Being able to install it recessed into the wall meant it wouldn’t take up any valuable floor space,” said Rod Gruendyke, the hotel’s general manager. It also matched the high-end aesthetics of both the gym and hotel. Gruendyke put in the highly regarded NightBird Recording Studios when he recognized it was the perfect amenity for the hotel’s musically talented regulars. He was inspired to add an on-site gym when it became clear it was something the hotel’s privacy-seeking guests needed. The Sunset Marquis’ unique clientele seek out the hotel because the staff goes out of its way to protect them from inquisitive eyes. Although they are free to visit the exclusive EquinoxⓇ West Hollywood across the street, guests also wanted the ability to work out in a space as discreet as their own home. “They wanted to be able to bring their own trainers or security detail into the gym with them. So we created the Wellness Studio to give them that option,” Gruendyke said. Every detail included in the Wellness Studio had to meet a high bar for quality, performance and efficient use of space. The top-of-the-line TechnogymⓇ equipment has the versatility to be used for multiple exercises. Between the multigym, bench and TonalⓇ all-in-one machine, guests can perform hundreds of different exercises. Like the high-end equipment populating the gym, Vaask’s fixtures employ state-of-the-art engineering for long-lasting and precise performance. The all-metal construction and LED lights on the all-black fixtures add to their “cool factor,” Gruendyke noted. Two dispensers were installed in the space. One is just inside the entry door, and the other sits on the wall amid the exercise equipment. The ease of maintenance has been another bonus. Dispensers can be refilled with any sanitizer gel, and a quick swipe with warm water and a microfiber cloth keeps the exterior clean. Vaask’s precision pump mechanism and adjustable dispensing volume also prevent damage to the gym’s beautiful hardwood floors. “It’s great that we found a way to provide something as utilitarian as hand sanitizer in a way that makes people stop and take notice,” Gruendyke said. Ready to see Vaask in action? Sign up for a product demo.
Vaask is on tap at south Austin brewery CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Fast Friends Brewery LOCATION Austin, Texas PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser, Material: Aluminum Challenge As you step through the doors of Fast Friends Beer Co. in Austin, Texas, you are immediately surrounded by the theme of camaraderie and connection that is the foundation of the brewery. From the “Never met a stranger” slogan on the front door and T-shirts to the light-hearted “Beers make buddies” imagery, everyone is made to feel welcome. Fast Friends’ founder Dave Childress and his business partner, Christian Helms, were intent on making every detail of the space support a theme of building human connection. It’s all part of a broader mission in which the brewery helps financially support initiatives for positive change. One of those details was promoting cleanliness by providing ready access to hand sanitizer. Childress and his team believed encouraging good hygiene was especially important in a food service setting. But they wondered if there was a way to do so that wasn’t so clinical and sterile. Solution When Childress was introduced to Vaask early in the brewery’s building process, he realized the dispenser provided the innovative approach to hand hygiene he had been seeking. “With Vaask, guests are able to clean their hands while also interacting with our brand in a fun way,” Childress said. Each dispenser is adorned with the company’s logo, featuring a playful pair of beer buddies. The menu includes a range of culinary options and reflects the brewery’s emphasis on offering something for everyone. There are vegan and gluten-free options as well as “middle of the fareway” meat and cheese dishes. “We talk a lot about ‘wow’ moments at Fast Friends, about how we can take the ordinary and make it a notch more fun and unique,” Childress said. Evidence of this can be found in the design of the space and menu offerings. “Vaask gives us one more way to deliver a bit of surprise and delight to our guests.” The aesthetic aspects of Vaask are what initially drew Childress in, but the superior functionality made it a smart investment for the brewery. “The durability and longevity of the dispensers are features we really appreciate,” Childress said. “Plus, cleanup is a breeze, maintenance is a breeze and refilling is a breeze.” Ready to see Vaask in action? Sign up for a product demo.
Installing Vaask hand sanitizing fixtures in your space can help you meet green cleaning policy requirements toward earning LEED certification points.
California resort and casino goes all in with Vaask CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Yaamava’ Resort & Casino LOCATION Highland, California PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizer dispenser Material: Aluminum Challenge A world-class event venue, hotel and gaming facility, the Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, built by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, embodies the tribe’s long-term thinking. The Southern California resort features more than 400 guest rooms and spacious suites, an elevated pool deck and a lavish full-service spa and salon, all designed and engineered to last far into the future. Yaamava’ employees pride themselves on making sure guests leave remembering a great time in a luxurious setting, as the tribe knows that strong word of mouth and repeat business are crucial and they want the resort to be around and generating income for their descendants for generations to come. And while glamorous gaming halls, great food and big-name entertainers are what they want guests to remember, they also seek to provide an elevated experience across all aspects of their guests’ stays. During the pandemic, the resort and casino installed more than 200 hand sanitizing stations, but the plastic dispensers and bottles detracted from the elegant look so carefully curated throughout the complex. As the pandemic became endemic, the leaders at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino looked for a permanent solution for hand hygiene, which is particularly crucial in casinos where guests frequently touch cards, chips, slot machine handles and more. Solution Leaders at Yaamava’ discovered Vaask® touchless hand sanitizing dispensers at a conference and immediately knew they would complement the elevated experience they had infused throughout the resort and casino. Made of cast aluminum and steel, Vaask also epitomizes the built-to-last philosophy that’s so important to the tribe. “Vaask is innovative and pleasing to the eye,” said Samuel Ramos, assistant director of environmental services. “You don’t expect to see it just anywhere, and you have a real sense of luxury.” Ramos’ team installed Vaask dispensers throughout high-traffic areas, including the hotel lobby and spa entrance, as well as near the resort’s elevators. “Vaask elevates the areas and starts conversations. From the design to the lighting to the actual product, it’s something people haven’t experienced,” Ramos said, adding that the customization options allowed the resort to perfectly match fixtures in each area. Regarding installation and maintenance, Ramos’ team has found Vaask to be a welcome improvement over traditional plastic dispensers. And the guests can’t get enough. “They love the scent of the sanitizer gel and that it’s so easy on their hands,” Ramos said. Everyone who uses a Vaask dispenser returns again and again, just as intended by the leaders of a casino and resort focused on creating lifelong memories.
At Vaask, we’ve solved this problem with our online dashboard that automatically alerts maintenance staff when it’s time to refill.
College evokes school pride even with its hand sanitizing fixtures CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT Emerson College LOCATION Boston, Massachusetts PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser Material: Aluminum Challenge For Emerson College, being a Division III school often means modest—albeit enthusiastic— crowds at home athletic events. But the passion and commitment of the 200 student-athletes at the Boston school is on par with any large university. Raising money for the athletic programs, however, is a bigger challenge for Stanford Nance, senior associate director of athletics for external affairs. One way he builds school pride and draws support for the program is by branding every available surface of the college’s athletic facilities with the purple and yellow Emerson Lions’ colors and logos. Nance had long wished to display the Emerson Lions logo on hand sanitizer dispensers to further promote the brand. But he wanted something with a classier look and needed dispensers that were more reliable. Solution During a visit to the NCAA convention, Nance stopped in his tracks when he came across Vaask’s hand sanitizing dispensers. “I knew they would be a slam dunk for showcasing the Emerson Lions brand,” he said. It wasn’t long before Nance had set up two customized Pedestal units in the athletic building. He strategically placed them in areas with high visibility and where they would get a lot of use. So far his plan to attract attention is working. “With the yellow and purple on a black background, the units are really eye-catching. Whenever anyone comes across them, they immediately say, ‘Wow, those are pretty cool,’ ” Nance said. The LED lights on the faceplate also draw people in. “They’re a game changer,” Nance said. The superior functionality of the dispensers also aligns with the image of the athletic program. Users can count on Vaask to come through every time they need it. With no batteries to replace, and the large, refillable sanitizer tank, maintenance has been a breeze. Nance enjoys knowing Vaask will be around for generations of students. “Vaask has made something that you don’t have to keep replacing,” he said. “They are so sturdy, they’re going to last forever.”
Texas Gym Members Strengthen More Than Muscles CATEGORIESContract Products/AccessoriesPublic Buildings PROJECT MAC Speed & Strength LOCATION Plano, Texas PRODUCT SPECS Hand sanitizing dispenser Material: Aluminum Challenge Jay McCareins knows the value of hard work and a hard workout. The former Princeton University standout and NFL player achieved his goals through determination and relentless training. Now he and his wife, Nikki McCareins, an accomplished track star, dedicate their lives to helping others get stronger, run faster and, most importantly, gain greater confidence. Since they opened the 5,000-square-foot gym MAC Speed & Strength in Plano, Texas, in 2016, the couple have helped adults and young athletes lead healthier lives. Their goal is to build strong, well-rounded athletes, but health and safety come first. Hand hygiene is a top priority, as it is at every gym and health club, where hands are constantly touching the equipment. Even before the pandemic, beyond spraying and wiping down machines, they stocked the “crappy plastic” bottles of hand sanitizer, Jay McCareins said. But they were a poor system for protecting members and staff. Solution A major point of contention was how the distributor pushed MAC Speed & Strength to stock pallets upon pallets of cleaning supplies and demanded locked-in contracts. “The bottles were upcharged from the distributor, along with I can’t tell you how many paper towels,” McCareins said. When he heard about Vaask’s touchless hand sanitizing dispensers and how the company never required locked-in contracts, he was on board right away. Everyone who enters MAC Speed & Strength makes a beeline for the Vaask dispenser, McCareins said, thanks to its elegant design and attractive, eye-catching array of LEDs. And unlike those “crappy plastic” containers that broke or flew open when a stray soccer ball hit them, “Vaask is indestructible.” While the old dispensers squirted a big glob of goo — when they weren’t empty — Vaask delivers a precise amount of sanitizer that feels and smells “like a gently scented body lotion,” he said, rather than rubbing alcohol. The touchless operation is also reassuring, he said, adding that using traditional dispensers almost leaves him feeling dirtier. Although McCareins appreciates Vaask’s aesthetics — the sleek shape and attractive matte & finish — he especially likes the lack of maintenance required. “It may be the only item in our facility that hasn’t needed maintenance since it’s been installed,” he said. And he loves that he’s no longer forced into a long-term supply contract of more sanitizers than he has closet space to store. McCareins has received endless compliments about Vaask. “We have physicians that use our facility, and they’re particularly impressed,” he said. Overall, he said he’d give the sanitizer an A+ for being exactly what a business like MAC Speed & Strength needs.
Copyright © Vaask - Clean by Design
