Category: Management Tips

Vending.com blog
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Buying a vending machine is easy (Financing, leasing, reman/used, etc.)

Buying a vending machine is easier than ever before.

Everybody must have experienced the fun of buying something from a vending machine to just see it spit out the product you chose to buy. Owning a vending machine can be even more fun and rewarding. Nobody will mind an alternate source of revenue from vending machines. There are several stories where what started as a side hustle became a thriving vending business.

Investing in a vending machine can improve the experience of the customers or visitors of your establishment. Customers will find it convenient to wait with a beverage until it is their turn to be served. Businesses can also use vending machines as another channel for the sales of products relevant to their business.

Investing in a vending machine is simple when considering the following five aspects before making the purchase.

Finding the right location

One of the most important factors to consider for your vending machine is the location. If a machine is purchased for your own business, customer accessibility is a critical consideration. If a machine is difficult to access, it will have a difficult time generating cash. Additionally, if you are looking at an outdoor location, it is important that your machine has the correct specs to accommodate customers. 

If you place the machine at a location owned by someone else, then you will need to consider things like partnership expectations, such as commissions, rental fees or custom branding on the machine. Vending is a numbers game. The more people looking at your machine will result in more revenue for you.

Selecting the right products to sell

The numbers for 2019 point to packaged snacks and food items as the most sold products in vending machines. Beverages come in at a close second, leaving everything else eating their dust, but this is still a generic classification. You need to be more specific as to what you want to sell. Some products give you razor-thin margins, while others are more rewarding.

A good example would be a chocolate bar. The average gross markup on a bar of chocolate would be 46% over the list price. Considering you must still cover your logistics, energy, location fees, insurance, and other costs, this is not much. On the other hand, the humble bottle of water might give you a tidy 85% markup. The logic is simple when you need water, you need water. A chocolate bar can always wait.

It is not just the markup. It is also about the demand. Pick products that move fast. The cost of products staying in the machine is often unnoticed, but can be very costly. M&Ms might fly off the machines at a waterpark, while a yogurt cup may not. The product to location ratio is everything in the vending business.

Investing in a machine

If you know what to sell and where to sell it, all you need to do is pay for it, but this is where most operators are stuck. While some operators can dig into their operating income or personal savings to buy a machine, others cannot. However, the good news is that reputed vending machine manufacturers have made it easier for such operators to buy their machines. They offer several options like the ones listed below.

  • Cash purchase: If you have the cash and you are willing to use it to buy a vending machine, then it is straightforward. All you need to do is find the proper manufacturer or seller who will give you a machine that costs you less to buy and to own.
  • Financing: Buyers can also obtain financing support to buy their machines. Depending on the business case, the manufacturer of the machine might offer attractive interest rates or other benefits to encourage the purchase. Individual operators trying to create an alternative source of income often find this appealing, as they can invest in the latest technology without large upfront costs.
  • Used: Beginners can also try used machines. They come at a much lower upfront cost, however, the cost of maintenance and upkeep of these machines will depend on the quality of the machine. If the machine is already old, over-used, or faulty, the cost of owning the machine might become high. It is essential to buy used machines from businesses of good reputation to avoid future surprises.

Installation and Setup

The machine’s installation and setup are often covered by the manufacturer when you buy a new machine. If you buy a used machine, however, ensure that you calculate the setup cost. Other than costs, installation and setup also require skills. Configuring your machine for the products you sell, providing proper payment interfaces, connecting to software inventory management systems if there is one, and other aspects of installation might need professional support. Buying new or used machines from reliable businesses can help you address these needs. They often provide the necessary support.

And you can rest assured knowing that our dedicated service entity covers all installation, setup, and setup requirements. Vendnet also supplies all spare parts and hardware along with easy-to-use manuals for all our models that help in DIY troubleshooting.  

Stocking

Once you have the machine up and running, all you need to do is stock your machine. If you have already decided on your product, make sure you buy fresh stock. Ensure that the products are worth the price your consumers are paying. It is vital to have quality products as it impacts consumer experience. Only a happy consumer will buy again from the same machine. Also, ensure that you have the necessary mechanism to keep your machine stocked. An empty machine continues to cost you without generating revenue.

A vending machine can be your steady stream of additional income. The past two years have taught us that even a strong market or economy can be fragile. Investing in vending machines can reduce risks to your income. Operators who carefully consider the above mentioned aspects and buy from reputed sellers are wise. They minimize the upfront capital expense and optimize the cost of owning the machine while also reducing risks. Our specialists at Vending.com can assist you through your purchase of a new or used vending machine.  Our offers are simply icing on the cake that you simply cannot resist. Talk to us at 1-855-929-1042 to know more.

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Free Vending Services from Vending.com

Free Vending Services from Vending.com

Discover Free Full Service Vending Programs for Business Owners!

The Vending.com full-service program is designed for businesses that are looking to upgrade their facilities with vending services. We offer this exclusive program for those unable or not looking to purchase and service the vending machines on their own.

Placing a vending machine in your facility is a simple, innovative way to increase your profits and professionalism. Do you have a busy waiting room full of antsy customers? Place a vending machine full of filling snacks and refreshing drinks to placate them as they wait. Does your facility work long hours and find productivity slipping due to mid-day slump? Perhaps a healthy vending machine is the perfect solution to that inefficiency. Looking to earn some extra cash for your business with little upkeep? A vending machine may be your perfect solution.

The Full-Service Vending Program comes at no cost to you. We provide you with high-quality vending machines stocked with your choice of drinks, snacks, or food. Our professional operators stock and service the machines as needed, and you can quickly start earning a commission off of your vending machine sales.

Now is the perfect time to take advantage of Vending.com’s exclusive offer. Beat the winter month’s spending slump by adding an additional source of revenue for your business, or combat your employee’s “winter blues” with a delicious snacking surprise to show your appreciation for their work.

How can you take advantage of this amazing offer from Vending.com? Reach out to our team to learn more about the program. Our team will determine your eligibility and get in touch with you about your status. Your new vending machine can be increasing your profits right from your lobby in a matter of weeks!

We’re looking forward to partnering with you in this exciting new development for your business! Visit our free vending services page on the Vending.com website.

Coffee Vending Machine
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Motivate Your Employees With a Coffee Vending Machine

Waiting in line for a simple cup of coffee is almost never a pleasant experience. No one is all too cheerful before they have their morning dose of caffeine, and no one is EVER happy to be waiting on a line that doesn’t seem to end when they’re already 20 minutes late to work. After shouting your order to the barista over the din of blenders and complaints, shelling out $6 for about 12 ounces of the brew, you just want to run back home and dive into bed.

 

This is how your employees feel after braving the crowds for their morning coffee. What if you could figure out how to remove that small but stressful experience and motivate your employees to come into the office at the same time? This is where Vending.com’s hot beverage and coffee vending machines swoops in to save the day. By installing this top-of-the-line machine in your office to supply your employees with their daily coffee motivation, they save themselves the trip to the shop, the wasted cash, and the countless hours of aggravation.

 

But will the standard of our hot beverage vending machine hold up to the gourmet coffee shop’s? What about variation? Our Geneva Coffee – hot beverage vending machine offers 36 different beverage combinations allowing customers to choose exactly what they want, whether it’s coffee, espresso, cappuccino, cafe latte, cafe mocha, or hot chocolate.

Available in either instant or fresh brew configurations, the Geneva coffee – hot beverage vending machine dispenses a broad menu of premium and specialty coffees, and teas and serves them just the way your customers like them. With a state-of-the-art brewing system and precise ingredient controls, they are ensured a high quality cup each and every time. Buy with confidence the best coffee vending machine on the market from the leading vending machine manufacturer.

Interested in this machine? Get in touch with our team today. Your employees – and bottom line – will thank you.

 

 

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Where to Place a Vending Machine?

Location, Location, Location! You have likely heard about it in the real estate market but the phase also applies to the vending business. The location of your vending machines helps determine who is likely to use the machines and therefore what items you should sell in your machines. Determining where to put a vending machine is an important first step in a successful vending business.

It is helpful to think of a location that will benefit the most from your vending services. Where is a place where people gather often? It could be a place where people are forced to gather, like a large place of employment or a school. Maybe it’s a place people want to gather like a mall or entertainment center. Are there places around that have no food options easily available? Society never slows down and more and more people are eating on the go. Small businesses like auto shops, hair salons and laundromats are a few possible locations when it comes to the question of where to put a vending machine. Asking local businesses how your vending business can be of service to them is a good way to find out new locations for your machines. However, be aware that even though a location may be excited to have your vending machines, that place may not be profitable for you in the long run.

The location of your vending machines helps determine what items to provide to your customers.  If your vending machine is at a location where people will spend consecutive hours, larger items like frozen meals or sandwiches could benefit the people there. If the machine is at a fitness center, cold, healthy, thirst quenching beverages or high protein snacks may be in high demand.

No matter where you put a vending machine, quality customer service is the key. At Vending.com we believe that when we take care of the customer we take care of ourselves. We provide great financing options and reliable technical support. Our machines are manufactured in the USA with quality materials. Please contact us if there is any assistance your vending business needs. We hope you have a profitable 2019!

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Make Money Vending

Are you curious whether vending is financially viable or whether it would be worth it to start? Average annual sales per vending machine is $4,416. The National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA) says the U.S. Convenience Services Industry accounts for a total impact of $25 billion. The industry provides 140,000 good paying jobs and $7.21 billion in wages.

Thanks to people’s busy lifestyles and other variables, more people are trading in meals for snacking. Vending machines give people the food they want, when and where they want it. Vending is a profitable industry with 54 cents or more of every dollar spent resulting in gross profit. Vending machines generate immediate cash flow and work for you 24/7 and never ask for vacation.

You be would be right to question someone who said you could earn money while eating with your family, hanging out with friends or even sleeping. Vending is a unique business where your “store” is always open and you do not need to be present earn money from it. In fact, if you were standing by the machine all the time trying to sell products in the machine you probably would not make as much money. The machine markets and handles money on its own, without you or an employee on hand. Vending is flexible, you can always start out part time and use it for supplemental income before jumping full time.

Choosing the right vending equipment can make or break or vending business. Vending.com’s machines are sold factory direct from our plant in Des Moines, Iowa. We’ve been manufacturing vending machines for more than 80 years. Vending.com also separates itself from competitors by offering flexible financing and 24/7 technical support. We offer a 2 year limited parts warranty and our technical support staff is on call to help with any trouble you run into throughout the time you own the vending machine. We want to earn your trust and are confident you’ll be successful vending with us. Call us today for your FREE Vending Profit Analysis at 1-855-981-9367.

If you’re wondering where to place your vending machines read: https://www.vending.com/blog/where-to-place-a-vending-machine/

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Placing Vending Machines Part: 1

What comes first, the location or the machine? We recommend securing locations for your new or used vending machines before committing yourself to using a certain machine. This is because each location is different and your goal as a vending operator is to provide the location with what they want or need, and you cannot know what that is until you ask them. How can you secure the all-important locations for your vending machine business? In this short blog series, we will present a few tips about finding vending machine locations and how to build positive business relationships at your locations.

A common mistake newcomers to the vending industry make is to only consider locations that have no vending machines. It is very possible that there is no vending machine there, because it is not a profitable location. If you only look at vending machine placements where there are no other vendors you may find many locations too small to be profitable.

Placing Vending Machines Part

When it comes to how to secure a good vending machine location, we recommend approaching high-traffic businesses that already have vending equipment. Striking out at a profitable location is better than wasting your resources on a location that is easy to get but won’t make you money. Ask the location if they are satisfied with the vending service they have now. They very well could be, but there’s no guarantee they will be in the future. Hand out your business card and invite them to give you a call if there’s anything you can do to help them in the future. Make sure you leave a good impression and make it easy for then to contact you. Don’t get discouraged if you cannot find a location dissatisfied with their vending service, it will be worth it when you find one that is.    

Selling vending services is not about twisting someone’s arm, intense negotiations or hiding additional fees. You should always carry yourself in a professional manner and represent you business well, however selling your services is not about convincing a business to switch from another service to yours. Instead, you are looking for vending machine locations that are already unhappy with their current vendor. All you have to do is find these locations and demonstrate that you will offer better machines and better service.

In the next blog in our series, Placing Vending Machines, we will discuss why you should not be intimidated by bigger vending services and also how to interact with contacts for your possible locations.

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Placing Vending Machines Part: 2

In our blog on Vending Machine Placement, we discussed strategies for securing locations for your vending machines and how getting accounts is not about finding places without vending services as much as it is finding a location unhappy with their current vending service. When you do it’s important to come across as a better provider. It’s important not to be intimidated by big vending companies, because these companies can be the easiest to take locations from and how to get new customers for your business. In this blog we will detail how to efficiently use this vending machine strategy and other relevant tips for securing locations for your vending services.

Companies that get too big can have trouble or overlook details that smaller businesses are better equipped to handle. Sometimes large vending companies are staffed by part-time workers who do not care about customers and are just concerned with earning their hourly wage. Their route drivers may not really care about the appearance of equipment or satisfaction of the customer. Employees at big companies don’t have the same amount of investment in the business as workers at smaller companies. In contrast to a large vending conglomerate, your vending company can offer locations personalized service, easy accessibility to company ownership, quicker adaptability and more flexibility.

The following is an example of a script you could use when approaching a business owner about vending at their location. “Good morning, my name is John Smith, president of Smith Vending. How are you today? Great! I won’t take up too much of your time. I just want to drop off my card in case you need my vending services sometime. By the way, are you happy with the vending service you have now? Is there anything at all I can do for you?” Try to stay friendly and concise with you comments. Your goal should be to “test the waters” to see if they’re satisfied with their current vending operator and to let them know you are available to help them.

If the location communicates that they are satisfied with their current vending services, we advise thanking them for their time, leaving your business card and doing your best to make a positive impression of yourself and your company. The location also may communicate their displeasure with their current vending service. If they do this, we advise you to ask about why they are dissatisfied, how many machines do they have, what is sold and for how much. You don’t want to overwhelm them with questions, but you want to gain useful information that can help you communicate how your vending business is superior and how your smaller business cares about the details of their vending needs.

Working to secure locations does not have to be scary or intimidating. Presenting your business in a courteous, professional manner goes a long way in making a good impression. You may not find a location in your first handful of attempts, but keep going. Perseverance is an important part of your vending machine strategy. It will be worth it when you do find your first couple of locations. If you have any questions or need assistance for your vending business please give us a call at 1-855-661-3298.

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Healthy Vending Provides Opportunity

More than ever before people are on the hunt for healthier food options, whether they are at home or on the go or on premise at work. Evidence of this is everywhere and it presents us with an enormous opportunity. Finally! Demand and sales are converging.

Carla Balakgie, NAMA President & CEO

According to the National Automated Merchandisers Association’s President & CEO, Carla Balakgie, the growing market demands for healthier food options is a great opportunity for the vending industry to thrive. “As the convenient services industry we want to be viewed as a solution provider for both the clients you serve and the customers, the very people who are on the hunt for these healthier options being part of the solution.” Vending services need to think about how to solve problems customers are facing and doing their best to meet their needs directly. Vendors can make money selling healthier products to consumers. They only thing they consumers more than healthier options is healthier options delivered with the press of a button. As the customer demands increase the potential for vendors to benefit financially increases as well.

Vending.com is working to be part of the solution to consumer demands with healthy vending machines.  Our healthy vending machines offer an alternative to the snacks traditionally sold in vending machines. Healthy vending machines provide low fat, low sugar, low carb, products. You can vend nutritious foods, snack & drinks all from a healthy vending machine. High protein meats, nuts, bars, also whole grains and natural waters and juices are some items that could appeal to your healthier customers.

It is vital to remain on the pulse of consumer wants and desires moving into the future. The ever-increasing demand for convenient healthy food is a wonderful opportunity for vending operators to profit as they adjust from just selling the typical junk food and branching out into healthier options. If you have any question about you can take advantage of the demand for healthier food contact us today at 1-855- 253-7880.

We believe it is the right time to demonstrate that our industry is part of the solution in promoting public health and in meeting consumer demands while also protecting our businesses and enabling them to grow on our terms.

Carla Balakgie, NAMA President & CEO

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Teaching Hard Work to the Next Generation

What was your first job? What was it like? How did it impact your view of work? An important part of growing up is learning how to work hard. We all wish earning money was easy but that’s just not reality. Vending is a great way to teach hard work and responsibility to your family. It doesn’t take extensive education to service a vending machine, teens are very capable of helping a family vending business. Teaching hard work to kids when they’re young can set them up for a successful future.

Vending is simple to get into and can be very profitable for you and your family. However, there are no shortcuts and putting in work is necessary. There are many family-run vending businesses across the country, where families work together to service their machines and reap the rewards. Vending.com equipment offer great profitability but they take time and energy to remain full with product. Not only does it take time to refill machines with product it takes research and intentionality to know what to sell in your machines. Machines poorly maintained show negatively on your business and if it’s a family business, possibly on your family too. Vending is a great opportunity to teach young people the value and importance of responsibility.

While vending is work, the profits make it all worth it. As a vendor there’s nothing like taking a thick wad of cash out of the bill box and seeing the fruits of your labor. Working is hard, but it’s important and has its rewards. Seeing and experiencing the rewards of hard work is great motivation to continue working hard. The money you earn will mean much more to you and used more responsibly than money that was just given to you. 

Vending.com is here to help you before you begin vending as a family and throughout the life of your machines as well. We want you to have the best experience vending. We are available to honestly answer any questions you have about the industry or our equipment. Give us a call today at 1-855-365-0906.

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Your Goals for 2021

A new year is officially upon us. If you have not yet, it is time to make goals for your vending business in 2021. These goals should include focusing on what your customers are craving, both in technology and snacks. Let’s discover what your keys to success look like in 2021.

It cannot be stated enough. Cashless vending is something you cannot afford to skip. Cashless payments, such as through Greenlite or PayRange, not only benefit the customer, but they benefit you as well. Cashless payments mean quicker transactions for you and an increase in same-machine sales. By not providing cashless payment options, you are losing sales and possible customers.

Another trend in 2021 that is predicted to increase is more product transparency. This includes more than simply nutrition information. This is storytelling features on the products you are providing. For example, Vending MarketWatch recently produced an article in which brands are using barcodes or a QR code to give background information about where the product came from. Customers may be more drawn to these products if they are included in your vending machine.

Many people saw an increase in their anxiety, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. To help put people at ease in 2021, consider offering products that prioritize immune health. Snacks and drinks that cater to these needs include dark chocolate, orange juice, yogurt and nuts. Put customers at ease with what you provide through vending. The best part? All of these products can be featured through a variety of Vending.com machines, such as the Express Combo Vending Machine, the MarketOne Snack 6W Vending Machine and the MarketOne 5W Cold Food Elevator Vending Machine.

Vending.com is here to help steer you in the right direction in 2021. For more questions about our vending equipment and services, call us at 1-800-548-1982.

Vending.com
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Preparing for 2022 Trends: What beverages and sodas are your customers consuming?

If you have beverage vending machines, you need to plan ahead to accommodate the changing demands of your customers. Industry experts predict that, on an average, the sales of major beverages are set to rise at a CAGR of 1.7% per year until 2026. The year 2020 saw the entire world go through major upheaval due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Even retail sales of beverages dipped as fewer people were stepping out of their homes. However, with everything slowly opening back up and returning to normalcy, we can expect to see a steady increase in the sales of beverages from vending machines.

At Vending.com we have a wide range of drink vending machines that will help you sell everything from iced coffee to soda, juice and bottled water.

Due to the global pandemic, people have become more health conscious and aware of the need to consume healthy and cruelty-free foods, and this extends to drinks. Here’s what consumers are likely to demand more of in the coming year:

Plant-Based Drinks

Sure, we’re already consuming several plant-based drinks – fruit juices! But experts predict that the demand for vegan products, like soy milk, will also spike. Veganism is gaining popularity in the western world, including America, as there are many people who are lactose intolerant and cannot consume dairy. So, all such individuals are going to demand non-dairy-based shakes and drinks. Almond milk, cashew milk, and soy milk are the most popular among the non-dairy milk drinks. 

Immunity Boosters

As concerns about health grow in the pandemic era, people are keen to boost their immunity through natural means. This means there is going to be a sharp demand for protein shakes, probiotic drinks, turmeric lattes, and an assortment of health teas. 

Other Health Drinks

A lot of drinks fall under this category including packaged smoothies, shakes, and superfood drinks. Examples of superfood drinks include shakes or juices made with plants like spirulina, wheat germ, basil seeds, goji berries, chia seeds, and more. Such drinks will sell well in vending machines placed in health clubs, gyms, swimming pool complexes, and other sports complexes where teams practice and compete, such as our MarketOne Fitness Merchandiser.

With different beverages coming in varying shapes and sizes, it is crucial that your vending machine is able to accommodate consumer trending beverages and sodas outside of traditional cans and bottles. The Cold Drink 5W Elevator Vending Machine not only accommodates a variety of products, but also features a soft delivery elevator, so you can vend fragile items, such as iced coffee.

Sustainable and Organic 

Today, consumers want to know where their food comes from and how it was grown – whether it is organic or genetically modified. Brands that advertise their products as organic and sustainably grown will certainly have high demand, as consumers are likely to look for those beverage brands in vending machines, too.

Low Sugar Drinks

With diabetes and other lifestyle diseases on the rise, more and more people are looking for foods with low sugar and salt content. They look for fizzy drinks and fruit juices with minimal or no-added-sugar. 

Coffee

Come what may, Americans are not going to stop drinking coffee, at least for the foreseeable future. The consumer trending demand for this popular beverage will continue into the next year. We all know that coffee is not just to quench thirst. It can be your wake-up-drink or a post-lunch digestion aid. Business deals are made over coffee and people use it to start a conversation. With so many reasons to get a cup of it, people just need the visual cue to reach out for one. Coffee vending machines can be placed in almost any place with high foot traffic. 

Our MarketOne Coffee Vending Machine delivers a European café experience to your customers, with a range of coffees that taste just like freshly made Barista beverages. With a stylish design and cutting-edge brewing and filter system that facilitate precise ingredient control, this machine is THE one you need for coffee vending. You can choose from freeze-dried and fresh brew models; it dispenses multiple types of premium, specialty hot beverages – in fact, there are 11 core hot drinks with 34 combinations to choose from: hot chocolate, espresso, coffee, cappuccino, and more. 

Soda

While there is an increased consumer trend shift towards healthier drinks, sodas will not disappear. There is still a demand for fizzy drinks, and as a vending machine owner, you need to have this in your inventory.

The Express Combo snack and drink combo vending machine is a compact machine that is also eco-friendly. Its LED lighting highlights your products, and the fiber door graphic styling makes it attractive to customers. You can stock up to 9 types of drinks and 20 types of snacks, offering ample choices to your customers. It features two flexible trays for bottles or cans with high stocking capacity which can hold up to five drink selections, allowing you to offer your customers multiple choices for drinks, including health drinks.

Bottled Water

As the awareness about the benefits of sufficient hydration increases, so will the demand for bottled water. It is an item that is needed by every single person, regardless of age or health status – making it a safe bet to vend as well. Additionally, it will sell well at almost any location. 

The MarketOne 48 Select Water Vending Machine from Vending.com is the ideal choice for this. Its sleek design is sure to impress your customers; the availability of multiple payment options like cash, debit, and credit cards offers convenience. This machine also features iVend guaranteed technology, which guarantees dispensing. In case the product gets stuck, customers get their money back. It is also suitable for use by people with disabilities and visually impaired customers, as there is a backlit keypad with Braille identification. Its dimensions comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Ideally, to keep up with consumer trends, you should provide as wide of a beverage and soda selection as possible, especially when you start off with your vending business, so that you can increase the possibility of sales. Something for everyone is always a good principle. However, you need to closely monitor your sales, item-wise, so that you can decide whether to continue with the same items or remove them from your inventory.

Are you still hesitating to kickstart your vending business? Or do you just need help with your machine and its products? At Vending.com, we are always happy to answer your questions and help you achieve your business goals. Call us at 1-800-548-1982 today!

40 Selection Snack Vending Machine
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The Best and Biggest Selection of Vending Machine Options

When it comes to vending machines, the importance of offering the biggest and best selection of items to customers cannot be overstated enough. Vending machines are an important fixture in the daily lives of many – they’re often used for everything from a quick snack in between classes or meetings to a necessary cup of coffee first thing in the morning. If a vending machine doesn’t offer what a customer needs, however, they’ll begin to lose faith in it and will look elsewhere for what they desire. At that point, it’s hard to get them back again, which is why offering the largest selection isn’t just recommended, it’s practically a requirement.

Now, one vending machine manufacturer has proudly stepped up to the plate and answered that call: the 40 Selection Large Capacity Vending Machine is available to order now from Vending.com.

40 Selection Snack Vending Machine

The 40 Selection Snack Vending Machine is our biggest vending machine and was built from the ground up to be the perfect choice for high traffic, high volume locations. It doesn’t just offer a large number of different selections, it also breaks new ground in terms of variety. It has 15 snack selections, 18 candy and snack cracker selections, two gum and mint selections and five pastry selections, making sure that you have all of your bases covered and that your customers walk away satisfied each and every time.

The product itself features six flex trays, all of which are fully adjustable in one inch increments to better service your unique needs – even if those needs should happen to change on a regular basis. Our biggest vending machine also gives business owners the power to individually price selections in any way they see fit and is even re-configurable for product selection spacing or variable packaging sizes.

Powered by the revolutionary iVend Sensor System, the 40 Selection Snack Vending Machine features a large, lighted product display window and a customer interface that is almost impossibly easy to use with a large LED display and multiple money acceptance options.

Security

If the security of your vending machine is a concern, it doesn’t have to be any longer – the unit features sturdy steel construction with durable powder coat painted surfaces, creating the type of vending machine that will dutifully serve you for years to come. A high security package is also available for additional protection levels.

With variability, versatility and functionality like this, it’s easy to see why 40 Selection Snack Vending Machine single handedly offers the best vending machine selection on the market today.

V.COM-March Blog
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Snacks, Drinks, Frozen Foods, or Combo – What Would Give You More Vend Sales?

The product decides the machine.

A vending business is a reliable source of revenue, if you do it right. Even if you are not a mainstay vending business owner, an additional revenue stream from a vending machine gives you the liberty to pursue your passion. It helps you save money for a rainy day. The first step towards getting a steady flow of revenue is by choosing the right product to sell and the machine that vends it, in that order. It is important to remember that while people interact with the machine, it is the product that they consume.

First-time buyers often tend to focus more on the vending machine for sale than the best products for those vending machines. The product is a bigger capital investment than stocking the machine. They tend to pay less attention to the fact that revenue and profits come from the product you stock and sell. So, choosing what you want to sell takes precedence over the machine you use to sell it. Let us discuss how to select the right product that will give you the best results.

Factors to consider

The most obvious factor influencing your decision on the best products for your vending machines should be user experience. Your consumers should get the best satisfaction by buying from your machine. The best experience comes from the product they want to buy and the machine they interact with. So, the product you sell and the machine you use should be of the best quality and at the right price point. These two factors are applicable to what product you choose to sell. Other factors are influencing the selection of the product you choose to sell, however, like the ones below.

  • Volume: Some products sell in higher volumes than others. The higher the number of transactions, the better the returns on investing in a vending machine. Water bottles and beverages constitute more than 56% of the sales through vending machines[1]. They are universally sought staples and can also generate a decent margin[2]. Moreover, vending machine products are generally impulse buys. This means while users start transacting to buy a water bottle, they can get interested in a bag of chips or an energy bar. So, high-volume products increase the chances of up-selling and generating more revenue per user.
  • Profitability: Certain products can fetch a higher margin than others in your vending machine. While the same product may not have the best profitability everywhere, there are certainly some sweet spots. There is statistical evidence from a survey showing that the humble water bottle scores high on the profitability scale. Fruit snacks are a close second[2], but again, these are statistical averages. While your water bottle might get you good profits at a gym, sugary drinks and candies might earn big bucks at an amusement park. That takes us to the next factor you need to consider while selecting the right product to sell, the location.
  • Location: The location of your vending machine can significantly influence what sells and what does not. The volume of traffic, the spending power of the traffic, and the need for convenient access to supplies are all dependent on the location. Outdoor vending machines with cold beverages at a summer fair can be a bigger attraction than the rides. Cold sandwiches might fly off the machines at the factory cafeteria. Protein shakes are more likely to be bought at a gym than most other places. Location not only defines what sells but also how much of it. Some vending enthusiasts place so much significance on the location that they are happy to select their machine or product based only on this factor.
  • Demographics: This is a slight evaluation of the location. This defines who is likely to use the machine. The demographics you are likely to cover at a school are children between 8 and 18 with access to disposable income in the form of pocket money. An office is more likely to have an older age group of people but with a bigger purse at their disposal. This kind of classification of who is likely to use your machine will help you identify the products they will likely need. It also indicates how you can price the products that have a compelling demand against others that don’t.

The right machine for the right product

Choosing the best product for vending machines impacts you’re the experiences of your customers, who do business with your machines. Getting the product mix right has a great influence on the revenue and profitability of your vending business, but the product by itself does not complete the experience of your customer. They conduct these transactions through your machines. Hence, the right machines combined with the best products deliver delight to your customers and success to you. Striking a balance between performance, features, cost of purchase, cost of ownership and maintenance could be tricky even for experienced vending machine owners.

This is where businesses like Vending.com can help. With over 90 years of experience in the vending industry and a sophisticated ecosystem of distributors and partners, Vending.com can provide the right vending solutions tailored to your needs. Reach out to us at www.vending.com or call us at 1-855-929-1042 to know more.

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Be Mindful of these Pitfalls When Purchasing A Used Vending Machine

The Pros and Cons of the Used Vending Machine Business

Did you know that as of 2022, the US has roughly 5 million vending machines? According to the industry market research firm IBIS World, the vending machine industry generates close to $8.9 billion in annual revenue. About 67% of this market comprises small independent operators selling snacks and beverages and making small margins. For most vending machine owners, it is primarily a side hustle.

Vending is a booming business, and starting one is not very difficult. The vending business is a constantly changing and evolving industry. It provides an excellent opportunity for all kinds of entrepreneurs, whether you are a novice or a seasoned business owner. The range of products that can be offered to your customers is vast. The most common and popular items being sold are snacks, candy, and beverages like soda, water, and coffee.

Used vending machines generate profits quickly with a low initial cost

If you are new to the vending business and would like to try your hand at it, then an easy way to start your own vending business is to buy used vending machines. A used vending machine will typically cost a fraction of its brand-new unit. You may also chance upon a used vending machine that has barely been used.

While experimenting with new locations, a used vending machine can be a good choice. If you are operating with limited resources, used vending machines may be the way to go. Many such use cases get you started on a used machine and earn the capital required to invest in a brand-new device.

There are many kinds of used vending machines available in the market today. They sell a variety of merchandise, from sodas or general snacks in malls to travel electronics like headphones or phone chargers in airports. You can also buy COVID-19 essentials like masks and sanitizers from vending machines in hospitals and public spaces like malls or theaters. Picking the right product and pricing it right will help recover the capital invested in buying your used machine.

Important aspects to consider before purchase

A used vending machine might seem like a cost-effective choice to jumpstart or expand your vending business. There are a few important things, however,  to consider before buying one.

There are business pros and cons when investing in a used vending machine. The right price, the suitable model, long-term reliability, value over investment, etc., form the cons. Vending.com ensures that these cons are handled and converts them to advantages.

  • Warranty –
    • Con  – Used vending machines come with no warranty, unlike new ones. 
    • Pro – Vending.com “factory refurbished” and “certified used vending machines” do come with a great price and limited warranty
  • Financing- 
    • Con – purchasing a used machine most likely will be a cash-only transaction, or you may have to take out a loan. 
    • Pro -Vending.com has a few attractive financing options that have been designed for entrepreneurs and their cashflows in mind.
  • Number of Features
    • Con – Used vending machines are generally older models. Legacy units will not have the latest features and technology like contactless transactions. They may not be equipped to accept card payments, thus limiting the number of customer transactions. 
    • Pro -Vending.com has the expertise and parts catalog to address this.
  • Hidden expenses –
    • Con – Used machines may work perfectly fine initially, but as they near end-of-life, their mean time between failures becomes lesser and lesser. While the cost of repairs will be a factor considered, the more significant aspect would be the lost revenue from sales. 
    • Pro- Vending.com’s one-year factory warranty and Vendnet’s 90 years of vending experience ensure your machine operates with no problems. 

When purchasing a used vending machine, it’s always a good idea to inspect the vending machine in person. If Tinder taught us anything, it is that profile pictures are often overrated.

  • Seeing is believing. Check if there are any physical damages like scratches or dents. It is relatively easy to improve the external appearance of the machine. If there are heavy dents, it is better to take a closer look at the circuit boards and refrigeration systems before moving ahead with the purchase. You should ask for the machine’s original manual and schematics and whatever proof of service the seller has at hand
  • If you are buying a vending machine for dispensing cold beverages, check the compressor thoroughly. Insist on starting the machine a couple of hours before you arrive. If you have a gas leak detector, do not forget to take it along. Freon-based coolants like R232 are relatively easier to detect with their distinct smell. It is the propane-based ones that are difficult to spot without a detector. It is better to look for better options if the compressor does not inspire confidence.
  • Check the bill acceptor and coin validator. Test it to make sure it is not malfunctioning. No one wants to use a vending machine that simply eats up their money and dispenses wrong items or nothing at all. You could also retrofit a card reader or cashless payment system to the machine. If the bill acceptor or coin validator is glitchy, ask for a discount in the asking price that will help you retrofit one from Vending.com.

 

The kind of used vending machines you buy can influence the pros, cons, and ultimately the success of your vending business. Getting a quality machine will save you lots of money and time while maximizing revenue-generating transactions. Purchasing your vending machine from a reliable company can help eliminate uncertainties and risks. Vending.com has a wide range of factory-direct new and used vending machines that are manufactured in the USA. All machines have been factory inspected and remanufactured to look and operate just like new vending machines. 

When buying your vending machine from Vending.com, you can rest assured that you are in good hands. With over 90 years of experience in the vending industry, Vending.com offers a dependable business proposition to help you build your own vending business.

Vending.com offers affordable used vending machines that are factory refurbished and certified.  Call 1-855-929-1042 today for all your vending needs.

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Ways customer service influences your vending business

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” 

– Maya Angelou – Poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist

Certain sayings have a great deal of wisdom hidden in them that resonates with us. What makes them great is how they remain true across time. We all must have heard the above Maya Angelou quote in some variation or another, and this holds for customer satisfaction, which in turn drives sales success.

Customer Satisfaction = Customer Service + Customer Experience

A particular study by Oracle® found that 86% of the surveyed consumers were willing to pay more for better customer service. The link between customer satisfaction and sales success is well-documented.

Though there are multiple definitions based on context, we could safely take the following equation as the simplest canonical form: Customer Satisfaction = Customer Service + Customer Experience. 

Customer satisfaction is a combination of aspects that are in our control, 

  • Vending customer service, the tangible aspects such as a well maintained and stocked machine, ensures full marks
  • Customer experience, where the intangible elements, such as aesthetics or a contactless and cashless experience, come into the picture.

At Vending.com, our machines cover both aspects. 

Quality of Customer Service

Vending customer service is key to gaining repeat customers and growing your business.

Stock availability

More product selections translate to more sales. Our combo vending machines, for instance, vends multiple product types and has a flexible and high storage capacity.

Ease of Use 

The customer does not like coin jams, bills returned, glitchy interfaces, or faulty buttons. The customer depends on the vending equipment to save them time while servicing their needs.

Safety

Vending equipment is a substantial piece of machinery. As rugged and handsome as they are, they still need to be grounded, balanced, and suitably located to stave off any possibility of injury. In today’s environment, sanitization of high contact surfaces are also non-negotiable. Check out our UVend Technology that provides a safer vending experience for customers.

Quality of Customer Experience

Customers are the cornerstone of your success. Focusing on the below areas will help in maintaining and optimizing the quality of their interaction with your vending business.

  • Ease of accessing information: We are living in a mobile-first consumer environment. Your customers are used to responsive touchscreens with strategically located useful information. They expect no less from their food, snack, or drink vending machines.
  • Technology
  • Cashless: Again, the focus is on a seamless interaction. One where mobile and card-based payment systems increase convenience for the customer. Our offerings are equipped with the latest payment acceptance systems. Additionally, in some cases, these offerings can be retrofitted. We recommend contacting your sales representative for more information.
  • Contactless: Unattended retail is growing. With this, our machines are equipped to make the entire user-machine interaction contactless, from product selection to payment to delivery. We ensure a no-touch experience to the end-users. 
  • Aesthetics – The Where, How, and Wow of Product Placement
  • Planogram: Out of sight, out of mind. We do not want visibility to affect your sales. Our in-house experts help you plan the positioning of your best-sellers. This ensures customers do not turn to another machine just because they could not spot the snack they wanted.
  • Lighting: Visibility is one thing. Viewability is another. Vending.com machines have strategically placed LED bulbs that enhance merchandise viewability.
  • Design: The where and how of product placement is covered, and now we come to the ‘wow.’ Depending on the audience targeted, a good design helps you get extra sales. Vending.com helps you convert your branding goals or your marketing ideas into visual graphic wraps. 
  • Alignment with/cognisance of customer philosophy
  • Accessibility: Patrons will range from children or elderly or the differently-abled. As such, our machines are all ADA compliant or ADA ready.
  • Sustainability: Consumers are now more aware than ever of the environmental impact of their purchase decisions. Vending.com has always been at the forefront of creating or in the early adoption of energy-efficient practices. Our machines are ENERGY STAR® certified. We constantly innovate through engineering and sourcing to keep the toll on our environment to a bare minimum.

We have ensured client success throughout our decades (90 years) of experience in delivering automatic merchandising equipment by helping our clients provide great end-user service and constantly optimize the end-user experience. We deliver thanks to our consistent focus on innovation and dedicated and exhaustive service, maintenance, and repair.

Making Vending Machines Your Best Salesperson

With a vending machine, there is an opportunity to provide standardized vending customer service and a quality customer experience to ensure more repeat sales and increased customer loyalty.

At Vending.com, we focus on making our machines a delight to use. We incorporate customer feedback and industry trends into our R&D. Connect with us to know more about the features and machines that will drive more vending sales for your business at 1-855-929-1042.

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Finding the best location for your vending machine

At the cost of sounding cliche, the top three of the five most important factors for success in the vending business are location, location, and location. It won’t be surprising if the other two are location too. Winning the best location for the vending machine is the first step towards monetizing the capital investment made on the machine. It influences critical business metrics like sales, profits, and average revenue per user. Choosing a poor location for a fancy piece of vending equipment is like keeping your gold in the bank and paying rent for safe keep. It is not only a poor use of your asset, but it also burns more cash for the upkeep. Incidentally, you could check out Vending.com’s profit calculator to simulate your earnings.

Need for a new location

Vending businesses are always looking for new vending machines and the best locations to place them in. The location is where their business starts generating returns or cash. Each vending business owner has their own drive to expand or enter a new location.

  • Starting a new vending business

Vending is a lucrative business with low barriers to entry. Vending machines are easy to use, not too expensive, and quick to generate returns. First-time investors of the vending industry who are looking to save for a rainy day are hungry for new locations. Location owners prefer working with them as long as they are in for the long haul. Vending.com has a specialized focus on helping entrepreneurs becoming successful.

  • Expanding to a new location

Vending machine owners who are already in business are also looking for opportunities to expand. They often start close to their base of operation and slowly expand to adjacent locations.

  • Choosing the right location for maximizing growth

Businessmen who are trained hands at the vending business always seek to maximize growth. If they identify an open opportunity in a high-growth locality that can benefit from the convenience of a vending machine, they pursue it. This adds to the race for space. Our earlier blogpost covers this area.

  • Diversification of risk

Veterans in the business are not only hungry for growth but are also keen to reduce risk. Betting on one or a few locations is like putting all the eggs in one basket. So, they often try to find new localities to place their equipment with diverse demographics and preferences. This helps them tide over challenges due to lagging demand in the areas they already operate in.

Selecting the right location

Newbies and veterans alike are hunting for that attractive bit of real estate where their vending machines can serve more and more customers. But not all places have the same level of earning potential. Successful vending entrepreneurs carefully select the ideal spot for their machines and then go all-out to win the location. While there is no clear definition for the right site, common sense and meticulous consideration of certain influencing factors can help get the best location deal. Some of them are discussed below.

  • Traffic volume

All said and done, like all other retail businesses, vending is a numbers game. The more the number of transactions, the faster is the recovery of capital employed. The machine should be placed in spaces where there is a good level of foot traffic. Public spaces, offices, schools, and other public places are good examples of a good volume of user traffic. These locations often generate the most per-machine revenues.

  • Traffic quality

While the volume of transactions driven by high foot traffic is essential, the kind of traffic also plays an important role. The vending machines in the lobby of the office of an investment bank will have users with high disposable income. The average price per transaction will be higher than a school where children deal in “small change.” This also allows adjusting margins depending on where the machine is located. A good example would be when the same water bottle costs more in the office than at the school.

  • Competition

Competition in the vending business is a necessary evil. When the location you are pursuing has been hosting a competitor for a long time, the competitor continues to enjoy good sales. But it also means you will have to fight harder. Fight harder with the location owner for placing the machine and then fight harder for the wallet-share of the consumer who visits the place.

There are also advantages to placing the machine where there is competition. It is relatively easier to price suitably for the location without experimentation. A common trick is to price the competitors’ product brands at lower levels in your machine and price your unique ones at higher margins. Eventually, in a location with fair competition, the prices of all vendors settle down to similar levels. Then the differentiator is through the quality of products, availability, and the quality of the machines used. This is also an opportunity to showcase and grow your brand’s identity and recall value, and Vending.com’s marketing has the precise support that helps with this.

  • Merchandize

The merchandize that is sold in the machine also varies as per the location. Protein shakes sell almost exclusively at the gym. There is very little chance that an office employee will shell out change for a protein shake at the cafeteria. Potato chips at the gym might only the serve the purpose of testing the resolve of the patrons. They may fly off the racks at a school or a park though.

  • Type of Vending Equipment

It might come as a surprise, but what machine you choose will also depend on your location to place it. The table below shows how certain types of machines will suit almost all the locations, while others fit only a few.

Location Combo Vending Machines Drink Vending Machines Snack Vending Machines Frozen Food Machines Coffee Vending Machines
Schools and Universities ✔ ✔ ✔
Offices ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Hotels ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Shopping Centers ✔ ✔ ✔
Hospitals & Care Centers ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Government Offices ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Transport Service Centers ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
Gyms ✔ ✔ ✔
Manufacturing Facilities ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

Conclusion

Vending business owners can consider work half done when they have scored the best locations for their vending machines. From there, it is just making them rain.

Experts at Vending.com can guide you to get your new vending business off to a flying start or race ahead of the competition. To know how to pick the best vending machines for your location or suitable locations for the equipment you have in mind, talk to us at 1-855-929-1042.

Vending.com - Operator and user safety in vending machines
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Operator and User Safety in Vending Machines

The Mysterious Case of the Great White Shark Vs. a Vending Machine

The origin of this statistic is unclear, but the most famous quip about safety in vending machines is that they are 4 times as lethal as the great white. We can be sure that neither was thrown into a gladiator’s ring to compete against the other, so we may never know how accurate this claim is. The most likely source of this is a research report published by the Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) in 1995. This report states that between 1978 and 1995, 2.2 people were killed by vending machine-related accidents on an average per year [1]. This is not an isolated report. National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS), a unit of CPSC, published a similar piece in 2015 to claim that the number is around 4 per year [2].

Vending machine safety incidents do not just impact business continuity for your vending business. It is a fiduciary responsibility to ensure the safety of vending machine operator and users. The good news, though, is that it is often how the machine is used that causes the incident. Not the machine itself. Manufacturers are using technology to make machines safer. Vending.com takes safety seriously, ensuring that standards are complied with and features added that ensure the safety of our customers, end-users, talk to us to know more about how we ensure this. 

Government institutions regulate the market to ensure that manufacturers are incorporating safety features. You can consider a few simple factors as a vending business owner to ensure that your operators and users have safe interactions with the vending machine.

Operator Safety

Vending machines are electro-mechanical equipment. Vending machine operators need to handle machines with necessary care and caution as they would handle any electrical appliance or equipment. Machine installation may be the most vulnerable point for potential incidents for the operator. Even that can be avoided by adhering to the installation process, using the right equipment, and wearing necessary protective gear. Once set up, operators will use the machine to program them, collect cash, or load new stock. There are well-defined vending machine safety user manuals that ensure that incidents like instability or electrocution are avoided during these tasks. Using suitable material handling equipment like mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical forklifts can prevent stock collapse and reduce operator fatigue. Vending.com equips all machines with the usage, service, maintenance, and troubleshooting literature to ensure a smooth experience for operators. Factory direct warranties, parts and service, as well as financing services are their expertise. Vending.com offers full-service programmes that assist first-time vending business owners as well as established vending business owners looking to expand their existing operations.

User Safety

The most common reason for safety-related incidents in vending machines is machine abuse. When delivery fails, some users kick, nudge, or even rock the machine. This can result in the machine tipping over. Vending machines are made of metal and glass, making them anywhere between two hundred pounds to eight hundred pounds, depending on the configuration and features. A fully loaded vending machine will weigh a few hundred pounds more. Mishandling the machine can make this come crashing down on the user. Damage to the machine legs or the floor surface can also lead to instability. Electrostatic charge accumulation is another cause of safety hazards. It might appear like these incidents can be avoided only through better user behavior. While that is true, the machine operator can ensure no clogging in the machine’s vending machine that can potentially frustrate the user. Manufacturers like Vending.com also uses technology that guarantees reliable disbursal of merchandise, contact us to know more about our iVend technology. Choosing the merchandise with suitable packaging is another important factor in ensuring proper disbursal.

Vending.com has a complete vending catalogue that can be customized with your company’s logo and colour scheme. It offers clients all around the globe a high-quality, state-of-the-art full-service vending experience with the widest range of safe and easy-to-use vending machines.

Ensuring Safety for Your Vending Machine

    • Timely Maintenance – Regular maintenance of the machine makes it function to specifications. It can also help vending machine operators discover potential safety hazards before they cause an impact. The refrigeration air intake mechanism, the coin and cash handling units, the collection tray, or any other part of the machine where transaction failures can happen need to be checked. Vending.com helps you with the timely maintenance, repair, and service of your vending machines.
    • Harnessing Technology – Using technology like Guarantee Vend can prevent machine abuse by some users. This will, in effect, help reduce the chances of tip-over. Modern machines have UV-based surface sanitation systems like UVend. They help reduce the spread of contagious diseases when users touch frequent contact surfaces.
    • Right Parts – Using manufacturer-authorized spares and supplies is an excellent way to eliminate uncertainties in machine performance. Spurious parts will not only reduce the life of the machine but can create safety issues. These parts are seldom tested and certified by regulatory agencies for your vending machines. Choosing to partner with a reliable partner like Vendnet offers the benefit of a fully stocked parts department that is committed to delivering components quickly and reliably anywhere around the world.
    • Finding the Right Machine (Compliance with Standards and Regulations) – Selecting certified machines for safety is a fundamental responsibility of the vending machine provider. It helps avoid accidents and wins the trust of the end-users. UL, FCC, and CE are good examples of standards that vending machines need to comply with. Vending.com offers a complete range of certified vending machines to fulfil all of your vending requirements. Location assistance is also included in the package.
    • Reliable Manufacturer – Vending machine manufacturers who have a lasting presence in the market have a lot of knowledge gained from years of research and addressing field issues. Fly-by-night operations do not bear the burden of long-term care for machines or users. Established players have a reputation to defend and, above all, a genuine interest in the welfare of the market that they serve. Which is where Vending.com with our 90+ years of experience, market leadership, and stability comes into the picture.

Conclusion

Vending machines are safer to operate or use than several other machines. But that does not diminish the responsibility of vending business owners towards deploying safe machines. Thankfully, that is not a difficult decision to make. A set of simple tasks like timely maintenance, use of approved parts, selecting the suitable machine, and buying from reliable manufacturers can make your vending machines an enjoyable and safe experience for everybody.

 

Vending.com bears a 90-year legacy in providing safe vending solutions. Our R&D team has tested and validated our machines for the necessary safety standards. To learn more about the safety of our machines, can talk to us at 1-855-929-1042 or visit us at www.vending.com.

 

[1] https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/1996/CPSC-Soda-Vending-Machine-Industry-Labeling-Campaign-Warns-Of-Deaths-And-Injuries

[2] https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/2019_NEISS_Coding_Manual.pdf

[3] https://medium.com/purple-theory/vending-machines-vs-sharks-3e2362d762fa

Vending.com - Growing Your Small and Medium Business With Vending Machines
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Growing Your Small and Medium Business With Vending Machines

There are various benefits to owning and managing a vending machine business. Being your own CEO and creating your own schedule without depending on anybody else could help you maximize profits. Once an individual starts a vending business and becomes successful, they will want to expand it in order to increase their income and enjoy the profits.

Vending machines sell everything from beverages to chocolate, candies, and gourmet snacks. These machines can be found almost anywhere, including the workplace, travel destinations, or other public gathering locations. The National Automatic Merchandising Association reports that 18% of vending machine operators make between $1 and $4 million per year. At present, it is a $42 billion sector that could be pretty successful for anyone looking to expand their own company. 

Whether you have a vending machine business or you want to start one to help grow your small business, here are some pointers to assist you in expanding:

  • Amp up existing products: Increasing the quantity of vending machines is a good idea. Finding out what items will complement your current developments is a good start. Suppose you already have vending machines that sell hot meals or snacks. In that case, it’s a great idea to add vending machines that sell cold beverages. Consider things from the users’ perspective and you’ll come up with a slew of brilliant ideas. 
  • Upgrade your vending machines: Vending machines have incredible technological developments. Purchase the latest vending equipment from Vending.com that has the most vending machine models for snacks, cold drinks, refrigerated and frozen food, coffee and other hot beverages. All products are equipped with enhanced technology, such as touch screens and cashless solutions, to attract even more customers and everything you need to start, expand, or manage your vending business.

Many users prefer cashless vending machines. Installing vending machines in strategic locations is a brilliant idea. When you purchase a vending machine from Vending.com, you can be confident that you are in safe hands. Vending.com offers a trustworthy business concept to help you create your own vending business or to employ machines to help grow your small business, with over 90 years of expertise in the vending industry.

  • Consider Proper Service and Maintenance: To enhance your revenue, keep your machines in perfect condition. Machines must always be cleaned and stocked with supplies, and, depending on your location, they should be refilled twice a week. To avoid losing potential buyers, you must also check that the machine is in good operating condition. When you buy vending machines from Vending.com, you get the prompt maintenance support and technical experience to keep your vending machines running smoothly. Its well-stocked parts department can ship components anywhere around the world quickly and reliably.
  • Change locations: In addition to improving existing vending machines, look for new places where vending machines can be installed. Your search should be completely objective, taking into account customers’ demands and purchase patterns. You may come across areas with many passers-by, but if they don’t buy, your investment and upkeep costs will go down the drain. 
  • Choose Appropriate Locations: Like any other retail business, a vending machine’s location is critical to its success. Locations should correspond to the things you offer. The products you choose should be appropriate for your location and traffic. Even the most popular products may not sell in a crowded place if the target market is not relevant.

If you find an opportune location, but notice a vending machine is already there, do not fret. Get a feel from the location manager about their vending service. Are they satisfied with the service? Is the current machine outdated? What can you offer that they are not receiving from their current vending operator?

  • Increase the Machine Lineup: Once your vending machine business is up and running, expand your inventory and supplies to match client demand. You might also want to purchase a new machine but ensure you use your profits for purchase. However, if you want to save money for the future, you may procure a used vending machine from Vending.com.
  • Enhance Your Product Variety: You will not get your desired results with only a few candy or soft drink selections. You must provide a wide range of products. Customers will flock to you once you begin supplying the products they truly crave.
  • Make the Most Out of Advertisements:  Advertising is a fantastic strategy to inform potential clients about your vending business. You will not gain the profit expected if your target clients are unaware of your vending machine and the products available.
  • Make the most of your advertisements by incorporating visuals of vending machines and details regarding their locations. Vending.com can help you create a custom vending machine graphics or wrap that is unique to your company and location. Customers can directly collaborate with the marketing team to design, print, and install a customized graphic or advertise on the touchscreen that will help significantly boost profit.
  • Secure Referrals: If you want to grow your small business or your standalone vending machine business, make sure you deliver exceptional service. Regular consumers are more inclined to recommend your services to others. Word-of-mouth is the most effective and efficient form of advertising.

 

The Bottom Line

You want to grow your small business and boost your profits as an entrepreneur. It is only feasible if your approach is objective and logical. Always consider the user’s viewpoint so that you can provide them with what they demand. Having an eye on the latest trends and developments lets you upgrade your vending machines periodically.

Scaling up, however, does not determine the success of the vending machine. You must make improvements to match your customers’ cravings. The vending machine business offers excellent earning potential. Still, to achieve that potential, you must follow best practices.

For additional information, give Vending.com a call at 1-800-548-1982.