Posted on February 19, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Vending Machines for Any Business: Fitness Vending Machines

Vending.com offers more than just snack, beverage, and combo vending machines. We provide three types of fitness vending machines: the Fitness and Health Vendor with Locker Add-On, the Trimline II Fitness Refreshment Center, and the MarketOne Fitness Refreshment Center. Whether you need a compact option or a fully stocked vending solution, we offer a variety of reliable gym vending machines for sale.

The Fitness and Health Vendor with Locker Add-On is a great way to add profitability to your business while providing healthy snacks and beverages for gym members. These gym vending machines feature a locker add-on which allows for larger merchandise, such as workout gear.

For a smaller fitness vending machine solution, your gym may benefit from the Trimline II Fitness Refreshment Center. Members have easy access to their favorite pre and post-workout snacks. This is a great replacement for gyms that have concessions or behind-the-counter snacks and beverages.

Finally, the MarketOne Fitness Refreshment Center is a larger and updated machine, when compared to the Trimline II Fitness Refreshment Center. It is configurable to meet your fitness centers’ merchandising needs. Its movable barrier tray allows you to adjust the temperature zones with a 20-degree variance in zones, allowing you to provide customers with a wide variety of products. Additionally, a locker can be added on for additional capacity and larger merchandise.

Whatever type of business you have, you can benefit from adding a vending machine, whether it be snack, beverage or retail. For more information, give us a call at 1-800-548-1982.

Posted on March 18, 2022 | by Phil Masters | Leave a Comment

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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Posted on October 2, 2023 | by Phil Masters | Leave a Comment

The Untapped Profit Potential of Starting a Vending Machine Business‍

Did you ever consider that a vending business might be the gateway to your entrepreneurial success? Picture this: Machines stocked with an array of beverages and snacks strategically placed in busy, high-traffic spots, serving customers day in and day out. You’re offering convenience without the overheads of pricey retail spaces or a large workforce.

Discover the untapped potential of vending machines with this article. From impressive returns on investment to streamlined operations, it’s time to uncover the diverse and compelling benefits of starting a vending machine business. Don’t let skepticism or the idea of novelty discourage you, as this often overlooked source of profit potential is where intelligent, self-sufficient retail is headed. Join us on this exciting journey into the future of vending, and get ready to set sail into a world of endless opportunities!

The Market Potential of Vending Machine Business

The vending machine business is no longer just about dispensing sodas and candy bars. It has evolved into a multi-billion-dollar industry, with an ever-widening array of products and services being offered. Statistics suggest that the global vending industry is projected to reach $37.2 billion by 2032. From gourmet coffee to health-conscious snacks and even lifesaving aids, the vending machine industry continuously expands, making it an attractive and advantageous prospect for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Advantages of Starting a Vending Machine Business

The vending machine business is attractive for several reasons, some of which include:

High Return On Investment (ROI): Vending machine businesses require relatively low capital to start compared to other retail businesses. You won’t need to lease a large retail space or hire a big team. Your primary investment would be purchasing vending machines and stocking them with products. Once installed, these machines can generate income round the clock without constant supervision. Maintenance is straightforward, as today’s vending machines are sophisticated and durable. Any issues that may arise can be quickly resolved.

Flexibility: The vending machine business is an excellent option for those who want to add to their income part-time. What’s more, one major advantage is that this vending machine business doesn’t require your constant physical presence. As long as the machines are stocked and functional, you’ll continue to make money. In addition, this business is highly scalable. You can start with a few machines and gradually expand your business.

Instant Cash Flow: You get your returns immediately without worrying about credit sales or receivables. Instant cash flow from a few well-placed vending machines can be a significant advantage, especially for small businesses.

Choosing the Right Products

When running a vending machine business, it’s crucial to choose the right products to offer. To make informed decisions, consider the demographics and preferences of your target market. For example, if your machines are in a gym, opting for protein bars and energy drinks instead of chips and soda would be a wise choice. By catering to your customers’ needs and desires, you can increase your chances of success in the competitive vending industry.

It’s essential to monitor emerging trends and adjust your product mix accordingly. For example, there is a growing demand for healthier snack options. So, adding items like nuts, dried fruits, and organic snacks can attract a broader customer base.

Location Selection: A Key Factor for Success

The success of a business, especially vending machines, significantly relies on its location. A vending machine placed in a advantageous, strategic location generates a high sales volume, whereas an inadequately placed one may result in slow sales. When choosing a site, consider critical factors such as foot traffic, visibility, and accessibility. Places with high foot traffic, such as office buildings, shopping malls, and schools, are ideal because the more people passing by the machine, the higher the likelihood of sales.

Ensuring your vending machine stands out and isn’t tucked away in a corner is essential. It should also be easily accessible, with enough space for customers to approach and use comfortably. Additionally, the location’s context is crucial to consider. For example, a vending machine selling snacks and drinks may be a hit in a busy shopping mall, but not so much in a health club where people are more likely to desire healthier options (and vice versa).

We Can Help You Get Started

Starting a vending machine business requires careful planning and execution. It requires you to understand the needs of potential customers and identify the type of vending machine that would work best on your premises.

With over 90 years of expertise in the vending business, Vending.com can make this process easier for you so that you can have the advantage of a successful vending machine business. We have the expertise to help get you started with the perfect machine for your business and offer flexible financing options. Let vending.com be your trusted partner and take care of your vending needs – reliably, effectively, and cost-efficiently.

Posted on February 17, 2024 | by Phil Masters | Leave a Comment

Can I Finance a Vending Machine?

Starting a vending machine business sounds like a great way to earn passive income, but initial investments can pose a trick. And here’s the way out: Can you finance a vending machine?

Yes, you can finance a vending machine. Vending.com makes it easy to get started with vending machines. We offer flexible, in-house financing plans that can be customized to align with your business goals. With options for low monthly payments and $0 down for qualified buyers, you can launch your vending business without a large upfront investment. Whether you’re starting small or looking to expand, our financing makes growth more affordable and accessible.

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Healthy Vending: A Trend to Be Happy About

Here at Vending.com, we work closely with our trusted affiliates who are as dedicated to providing our clients with the best drink and snack vending machines as we are. One of our many proud partners is Healthier Vending, who specialize in providing schools with health-conscious vending machines.

While the average school vending machine is likely stocked with sugary colas, greasy chips, and fattening chocolates, Healthier Vending’s machines are specially designed to keep in line with healthy food trends and promote a healthy lifestyle while still carrying plenty of tasty treats. Some of the featured products in a Healthier Vending snack vending machine include Baked! Lays, Nature Valley bars, Rold Gold pretzels, and V8 juices. Who said healthy snacking had to be tasteless and boring? According to a recent testimonial from a Healthier Vending client, a specialized healthy vending machine made over $1,200 in its first few weeks, proving that there is still plenty of profitability in healthy food trends once you take junk food out of the equation.

Recent news stories reveal that cities are cracking down on the caloric content of their vending machines in an effort to encourage healthy habits. Providing healthy food products is more important than ever and the vending machines for sale from both Vending.com and our affiliates make it easy and affordable to help your customers cut down the calories.

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Digital Vending is Here to Stay

Almost every aspect of our everyday lives have gone digital and the vending machine business is following suit. Since the industry’s inception, the world of vending has only been about seeing a product and buying it, though modern vending machines incorporate just about every human sense.

Vending Marketwatch recently highlighted the rapid evolution of vending products, from analog snack vending machines to modern smart-devices. While cashless credit card purchases once seemed like the cutting edge of vending innovation, digital vending machines now boast touch screens that function just like our phones and tablets. The entire world is glued to social media thanks to Twitter and Facebook, and various vending machines now pack some sort of social functionality, such as video chatting and tweeting-for-treats. Just like our computers do everyday, vending devices have evolved from simple food tools to avenues for connecting the entire world.

We are huge industry enthusiasts here at the Vending.com blog, and we truly cannot wait to see where our beloved business goes next. Of course, there is still a place for classic vending products, and our vending machines for sale allow you to get in on this exciting industry without breaking the bank.

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

The Blues, Naturally

Vending machine patrons that pay close attention to the ingredients of their favorite confections may have noticed that treats with natural food coloring are not available in blue or green. The reason for this, is that until recently, the FDA had not approved a natural color additive that created these desired shades. Now, the FDA has approved spirulina extract as a source of blue color in candy and gum.

This is big news for gum and candy manufacturers who until now had to use FD&C Blue #1 (“brilliant blue”) which is an artificial ingredient for blue coloring. US manufacturers had been left behind as spirulina extract has been previously approved in other markets. The benefit to this is that there is now a history of spirulina use for natural blue food coloring and testing that the FDA and manufacturers can take advantage of.

If you have been looking for a vending machine for sale, you will most likely know what kinds of snacks and candies are popular in vending machines. Vending.com‘s machines are very frequently stocked with chewing gum, and blue and green coloring will be a very popular choice for manufacturers. Representing “cool” and “fresh” flavors and breath, blue is an extremely popular color choice for many gum products and fresh breath candies.

About Vending.com

Vending.com brings together a multitude of vending expertise through our circle of services. Everything you need to start, grow, or manage your vending business is provided through our easy online access. We provide vending services, financing, vending industry news, technical repair, parts and much more. Vending.com is one of the companies under the Wittern Group umbrella. Whether you are an entrepreneur starting your own vending machine business or expanding your current business, Vending.com offers you a full-range of vending machines, vending machine financing, location assistance and other services to meet all of your vending needs. As a full-line vending sales company we provide customers nationwide with the right equipment for their client’s location. Our large selection of snack, soda machines, hot beverage, cold and frozen food and other quality vending machines can be configured and customized to fit any size location from small businesses to large factories. Let our network of vending machine companies go to work for you.

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

The Dos of Coffee Vending

More and more customers recognize and appreciate quality coffee. That’s good news for those who own drink vending machines. An educated and enthusiastic clientele means a profitable business.

To ensure the best sales, always offer your customers the best products that you can afford in your coffee vending machine. In a recent survey, daily drink customers said that they know who their coffee comes from. Give them an excellent experience with quality brews and well-maintained machinery, and they will repay you with their loyalty.

The most profitable machines are those that offer specialty drinks. Over half of all respondents said that they’d consume more coffee from their office’s vending machine if they had options that included espresso and lattes.

And, don’t neglect your coffee customers other desires. In the afternoons, many customers prefer cold drinks to hot. One of the most requested options is cold bottled water. If you have space for a cold drink machine, your customers will enjoy having that option available to them during times when they would prefer a cold drink to a hot coffee. By recognizing opportunities to upsell, you can increase your profits while keeping your customers happy.

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Vending Machine Guide to Purchase

Many companies that purchase snack vending machines and drink vending machines spend far more time worrying about items they’ll purchase to put into the machines than the actual vending machines themselves. That’s not always the best course of action, so we wanted to help guide you in purchasing your vending machine.

Whether the interest is in purchasing a used vending machine or buying brand new products as they roll off the assembly line, it’s important to know a few critical details about vending machines before making the decision to buy.

How long should vending machines last?

Vending machines should last ten years or longer. Vending machines are an investment. It’s important to make sure the investment is one that’s meant to last at least ten years in order to be a cost effective business choice.

What is the outlook of the vending sales company?

Businesses in many industries come and go. It’s important to look at the past and present of businesses before entering into partnerships with them. The history of the company and the way the company runs today has a significant impact on the future of the company. What you really want to know is that the company will still be around to serve your vending machine needs ten years from now.

Does the company stand behind its products?

This is perhaps the most important detail to know of all. No one wants to do business with a company that doesn’t make a visible show of faith in its own products. One of the most telling ways businesses can do this is by offering warranties and/or guarantees on the products they sell or service.

Does the business offer local representation to serve your needs?

The key is to work with businesses that have a local presence for a quick response when problems arise. Problems arise and repairs need to be made on occasion. When these things happen, getting the machine repaired and back in service quickly is a priority. This is much more likely to happen when there are local representatives available to see to these details.

Making the right decision is not always as simple as it seems. However, knowing the important factors to look for first, like those in our vending guide, helps you narrow down your choices in order to make an informed decision that will best meet your business needs.

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Battery Recycling Vending Machine a Great ‘Eco’ Idea

Concerns over protecting the environment and conservation efforts have grown remarkably in the past few years, and the topic of batteries remains high on this list. Unfortunately, society’s rapid reward and disposal mindset has led to a major problem concerning batteries. Batteries have the potential to decimate entire ecosystems, points out Emma Hutchings, since one tossed battery could contaminate up to 20-square-meters of soil. Fortunately, Hutchings revealed how Russia is partnering with local businesses and vending machine revolutionaries to address this problem.

Battery Recycling Vending Machine

In Moscow, a typical battery recycling center gathers about 1,000 batteries in a single month. Once the battery recycling vending machine, which allowed users to pay for items with used batteries, had been installed, the total number of batteries collected in this area soared to more than 8,000. This equates to 160,000-square-meters of ground space protected by simply installing this Think Blue Machine.

Items in the Machine

Now, many might argue that batteries are not a viable way to pay for goods, such as foods or drinks, due to the potential for cross-contamination. However, the battery recycling vending machine isn’t primarily for these items. For example, users could pay two batteries to get a stress ball, four batteries to get a bottle of water, or six batteries for an eco-friendly t-shirt. All of the items within the Think Blue Machine are selected for their ability to encourage more people to protect the environment and stay healthy, i.e. water instead of soda.

Future of Battery Recycling

Russia is responsible for the disposal of up to 15 million batteries annually, which equates to millions of cubic miles of toxic soil in dumping grounds. Volkswagen is no stranger to the battery industry; each vehicle uses a battery for starting the engine, except in electric vehicles. While society becomes more aware of the potential hazards for not properly disposing of batteries, eco vending machines like the Think Blue Machine could be the solution to much more than recycling single batteries. The machine could work like an exchange; providing new batteries in exchange for 10 used batteries. Ultimately, the battery manufacturer and the recycling organization make money in this way.

Although the Think Blue Machine was designed expressly for recycling batteries and encouraging eco-friendly thoughts among industrial cities, this could prove to be a venture to use across many other landscapes. The applications for a recycling vending machine could include aluminum cans, glass, plastics, and more. The only real question that remains is how will future generations want to pay for the things they want?

Sources:

https://www.psfk.com/2015/04/volkswagen-vending-machine-batteries-money-think-blue-campaign.html

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Vending Machine March Promotion | Get It While It’s HOT

In terms of vending machine promotions, it doesn’t get much better than this. Vending.com is currently running a financing special that lets customers get all of the vending machine equipment and other items they need to keep their customers satisfied with no money down for 12 months at 0% interest. Regardless of which item you’re looking for and how much you spend, you can save an incredible amount of money just by way of this special financing promotion in general. It’s important to note that the promotion is valid only for Vending.com new and freight blemished vending machine purchases only. The offer expires at the stroke of midnight CT on March 31, 2016, so act fast before these incredible savings are gone forever. You certainly won’t regret it.

Other Amazing Items and Unbeatable Offers by Vending.com

Even if you won’t be taking advantage of Vending.com’s March madness sale, the company still has a wide range of additional items on sale right now to help businesses exceed their customer’s expectations and create the sustainable revenue stream they’ve always dreamed of.

One of these bold items is the Cafe Express Refreshment Center, designed from the ground up to offer coffee service, beverages and a wide range of different snack items – all from one easy-to-use kiosk. The Cafe Express Refreshment Center offers a large compartment for single cup pods, K-Cups and pour over brewers in addition to a customer-friendly shelf that they can use to prepare their coffee any way that they’d like. The easy loading bottle and can trays accommodate beverages in nearly every size, from 16 ounces to 24 ounce plastic bottles and beyond.

Another impressive option available to order from Vending.com right now is the Table Top 14 Selection Snack Vending Machine.This beautiful piece features a compact, space saving design that is perfect for not only small break rooms, but also any other environment where space is valuable currency. The unit was designed from the ground up to offer 14 selections of snacks and candy and is accompanied by controls that are incredibly simple to use for both customers and operators. In addition to lightning-fast first-in-first-out product loading, it also features digital electronic pricing per selection and a number of other value-added features that make it perfect for both large and small businesses alike.

If you’re interested in taking full advantage of Vending.com’s March promotion, or in any of the other incredible snack vending machine sale items or other products available to order on the website right now, please contact the company today at 888-290-9356 for more information.

Posted on January 12, 2021 | by Phil Masters

The Vending.com Customer Assurance Program

Why join Vending.com’s Customer Assurance Program?

If you’re Vending.com customer, you’ve got nothing to lose and everything to gain. Vending.com’s Customer Assurance Program provides customers with an Extended Parts Warranty and Maintenance Program on new models of machines. This provides YOU, the customer, the assurance that your equipment is covered and will run trouble-free for years to come.

Customer Assurance Program Features:

#1: Complimentary Lifetime Technical Support: Vending.com’s Customer Assurance Program provides customers with toll-free access to technical support via VendNet’s telephone support for the ENTIRE life of the machine. This means that you can get LIVE support from a real human over the phone for FREE, for as long as your machine lives. This feature alone can potentially save you thousands in technical support fees.

#2: Two Year Parts Warranty: Under Vending.com’s Customer Assurance program, defective parts will be repaired or replaced for a two (2) year period. If you should run into any issues with your vending machine parts, Vending.com will fixed at no cost to you for a full two years post-purchase!

#3: Three Year Preventative Maintenance Program: Our Customer Assurance Program includes an overall check-up of the equipment and payment system, plus adjustments if necessary. Preventative Maintenance Program begins after year one (1). Additionally, you will receive Preventative Maintenance Program visits annually into years two (2) through four (4). What does this translate into? FREE Vending Machine “checkups” for the first four years of your machine ownership.

How do I sign up for the Vending.com Customer Assurance Program?

Contact our team at Vending.com today to learn more about joining the CAP Program. We’re excited for you to join this unique group of profit-savvy vending machine owners in taking the smart, preventative move that save you thousands of dollars and gives you priceless peace of mind.

Posted on January 13, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Guarantee Product Delivery

No vending machine operator wants to receive a call from a mad customer who put money in the machine but didn’t get a product. No vending machine operator wants customers shaking machines and pounding on the glass to get a product they bought to fall. How can a vending operator guarantee product delivery or a refund? We’ve got it. The answer is the iVend Vending Machine Guaranteed Delivery System.

iVend uses infrared receiver and emitter boards to detect whether products have been vended from the tray and have entered the delivery bin. The infrared rays alert the machine when an item has passed through. If the product has not successfully vended after the first coil rotation, the machine will rotate the coils again attempting to vend the product. Even if a product is not placed in every coil selection the machine will rotate the coil an additional time attempting to vend the product, counteracting a mistake loading product. If the item is not delivered, the machine will return the money to the customer. The iVend Vending Machine Guaranteed Delivery System makes sure the product is vended or the customer receives their money.

All of Vending.com’s machine are equipped with the iVend Guaranteed Delivery System. iVend makes your vending machine much more reliable, reduces service calls, minimizes customers receiving a “bonus” free product and help identify improper loading or coils choices. We would love to talk with you about the reliability of our vending machines and the difference iVend makes. Call us today at 1-855-296-8064.

Posted on January 13, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Vending Machines – A Controlled, Safe Method to Provide Food and Beverages to Consumers – Part IV

Reducing COVID-19 Exposure Risk with Contactless Payments

Previously, we delved into why vending is the ultimate solution in the convenience services industry in Part I, finding the right product to keep your vending machines disinfected and safe for your customers to use in Part II and best practices to properly clean your machine in Part III. In this final installment, we will focus on why cashless payment options are more important now than ever before.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q1Zwo2K4sqI

Recognizing the risk of COVID-19 exposure through surfaces and objects, many operators are being proactive in reducing the risk to consumers by ensuring their vending equipment is cleaned and sanitized on a more frequent basis and updating their fleets with cashless card readers.

Accepting credit cards and mobile payments have been proven to be profitable for. In fact, the industry has seen an 18-30% increase in sales after a cashless system has been added to a machine. Many used vending machines are too old to add a card reader.

“We see the cashless payment trend increasing, even while the crisis is happening, with a shift towards the use of contactless transactions. The ability to offer cashless payment capabilities encourages consumer confidence,” said Carly Furman, CEO of Nayax LLC.

While the COVID-19 crisis is sure to bring unseen changes to the convenience services industry, we believe there is an underlying, long-term opportunity for operators. The current crisis may increase the growing share of cashless transactions in vending, resulting in increasing operators’ profits. In fact, in a study done of 250,000 machines over an 18-month period, the number of total transactions increased by 26% on machines that allow for cashless payments.

According to the same study, there is a 37% increase in dollar spend when customers pay with a card versus cash. Customers are more inclined to purchase more than one item from the machine, simply because it is so easy to swipe their card. Although mobile payments only account for 5-7% of payments, that number is estimated to grow during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as people are looking to move away from making contact payments, such as cash. Apple Pay and Google Pay use near-field communication (NFC) to power contactless payments. With NFC, consumers simply tap their phone to a compatible terminal such as a Greenlite device and the transaction is complete.

This is an unprecedented time for all of us, meaning that we have to adjust to the way we live our lives and operate our businesses. Adding a cashless card reader, such as Greenlite ensures you will not miss out on a sale due to payment acceptance limitations while providing a safe, contactless payment option for consumers. It also keeps you safe by providing you with access to inventory reports, maximizing machine fulfillment when it is needed.

For any questions regarding safe practices for your vending business or information about your vending equipment, contact Vending.com at 1-855-365-0906.

Posted on March 15, 2021 | by Phil Masters

Custom Vending Solutions for Any Business

Whatever business you have, Vending.com can help you grow your business. We offer a number of retail vending machines that are created with the customer in mind. Add more ways for your customers to access the products they want, without having to pay for an extra employee.

Storage Supply Depot

Sell all of your top-selling storage supplies from one machine with the Storage Supply Depot! The Storage Supply Depot features a high-security outdoor package to reduce the number of break-ins your machine experiences. This includes an alarm, which sounds when the machine is tipped or a door opened without proper authorization. With reconfigurable trays, you can dispense all brand-named products including locks, tape, storage bags and more.

Ebonite Bowling Supplies Vending Machine

Your bowling customers will love having access to their favorite bowling supplies, even when the Pro Shop is not open, with the Ebonite Bowling Supplies Vending Machine. It has the ability to vend a number of popular bowling products of various shapes and sizes including towels, cleaning sprays or wrist bands. Plus, with iVend Guaranteed Delivery, your products are guaranteed to vend, or customers will receive their money back to try a different product.

Auto Vend Plus Car Wash Vending Machine

Finally, the Auto Vend Plus Car Wash Vending Machine is an outdoor vending machine that can be used by customers any time they need car wash supplies. With a versatile design, customers will have access to the car wash supplies they need, no matter what time of day it is. Dispense products of various sizes including towels, sprays or small trinkets. Finally, the high-security package of this vending machine makes it able to withstand the weather and potential vandalism.

Whether you’re looking to add income to your business or just looking for an expansion on your shop, Vending.com has a custom vending solution to help you grow. To find out more, give us a call at 1-800-548-1982.

Posted on March 21, 2022 | by Phil Masters | Leave a Comment

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.

Posted on December 28, 2023 | by Phil Masters | Leave a Comment

Mastering the Seasons: How to Adapt Your Vending Strategies‍ to Drive Winter Vending Sales

The world around us rotates through the vibrant hues of spring, the searing heat of summer, the rich colors of autumn, and the peaceful cold winter. Every season offers us an opportunity to mold the vending business seasonal trends and game plan according to the moods of the season.

Why is weather so important? How can you ensure your business is successful year-round? Join us as we explore practical strategies specifically tailored for the winter season that can help you keep your customers (and yourself) happy, even in frosty weather.

The Importance of Seasonality in Vending

Understanding each season’s ever-changing trends and demands is crucial for a prosperous vending business. Seasonality affects what consumers want to buy and when and how they want to buy it. It’s a fundamental aspect of your vending strategy that can directly impact your sales, profits, and overall business success.

To recognize the significance of seasonality, you must acknowledge that your vending business is not an isolated entity. Instead, it operates in a dynamic and constantly changing world of consumer behavior, heavily influenced by the seasons. Seasons play a pivotal role in shaping consumer behavior.

As the seasons change, so do consumers’ needs, preferences, and purchasing habits. These changes are driven by various factors, such as weather, cultural or societal events, and holiday seasons. For instance, winter brings the holiday season, which often sees a surge of an on-the-go need for snacks as people complete their holiday shopping. People also tend to prefer warm food and drinks during winter. On the other hand, summer triggers an increased demand for cold beverages and snacks to quench the thirst and beat the heat.

Understanding and responding to seasonal business trends ensures that your vending business remains relevant, appealing, and profitable year-round. You can accurately predict consumer trends, efficiently manage your inventory, and maximize your profit potential. So, the question is not whether winter seasonality matters in vending business, but rather, how can you effectively adapt your vending strategies to each season?

Warm Up Your Sales with Hot Beverages

As winter approaches, it’s an excellent time to consider leveraging hot beverages to increase your vending sales. A coffee vending machine placed strategically can significantly attract customers during the chilly weather, but there are several critical factors to consider.

Offer Seasonal Hot Drinks: During the winter season, offering your business customers a range of hot drinks is a great idea to help them stay warm and cozy. Coffee, espresso, hot chocolate, and tea are popular choices that will attract customers and keep them returning. Add seasonal flavors like pumpkin spice or peppermint to give your customers a festive and comforting experience. Remember to provide options for milk choices, sweeteners, and different sizes to cater to everyone’s preferences. By offering a variety of seasonal hot drinks, you’re sure to keep your customers satisfied and coming back for more.

Provide quality Coffee: When it comes to coffee, the aroma is crucial in attracting customers and ensuring that they return for more. To ensure that your customers are delighted with your coffee, you can always rely on Vending.com’s MarketOne Hot Drink Vending Machine. This vending machine boasts a European design and state-of-the-art brewing system that always guarantees the perfect cup of coffee. The machine also has a filter system that offers precise ingredient controls. This means that you can customize the coffee to your customer’s preferences, whether they prefer it black or with milk, strong or mild. The result is an unforgettable coffee experience that will attract and keep customers returning for more.

Tips for Successful Winter Vending

Winter vending can present unique seasonal business challenges, but it can be a prosperous season for your business with the right strategies. Despite the cold weather and shorter days, this season offers an opportunity for vendors to capitalize on holiday shoppers and winter events. Here are some tips to ensure successful winter vending.

What You Stock Matters –

If you are running a food business, include seasonal flavored drinks, such as pumpkin spice lattes, eggnog, or hot apple cider, to your menu during the winter season. Additionally, offering comfort foods like soups, stews, or hearty sandwiches can attract customers looking for a warm and satisfying meal. On-the-go snacks like muffins, pastries, and trail mix can also be a hit with shoppers in a hurry.

For vendors of products, it’s essential to remember that winter brings different demands from shoppers. Add winter-specific items like scarves, hats, gloves, or other cold-weather gear to your inventory. These products are in high demand during the colder months and can provide an excellent opportunity for your business to capitalize on seasonal trends.

It’s also worth noting that the winter seasonal business trends are typically associated with holiday shopping, and many people are out looking for gifts for their loved ones. You can attract shoppers looking for something special by offering unique and thoughtful gift items. Additionally, with the colder weather, customers may be more inclined to purchase necessities like blankets, warm clothing, or heating appliances. By anticipating these needs and stocking up accordingly, you can increase your chances of success during winter.

It’s Snowing. But Let’s Light It Up. As the winter season sets in, maintaining the visibility of your vending station becomes a crucial aspect of your business. With fewer daylight hours, it’s essential to ensure that your vending station stands out and is easily noticeable by potential customers. To achieve this, having your vending machine equipped with LED lighting can significantly help attract customers to your products. A well-lit vending machine creates an inviting and warm atmosphere that can attract customers from a distance.

Apart from lighting, having clear and concise signage is also critical in communicating your offerings to potential customers. Your signage should be legible and visible from a distance, making it easy for customers to understand your products and services. A custom graphic wrap is one of the best ways to achieve this. An eye-catching graphic wrap can make your vending station more attractive and appealing to potential customers.

Therefore, as a winter vending business owner, you should prioritize making your vending station visible and attractive to potential customers. High-quality lighting and custom graphic wraps can significantly attract more customers and increase your sales during the winter season.

Get Out of the Box – During the winter season, vendors have a chance to tap into the festive spirit of their customers by offering tailored promotions or organizing themed events. By providing holiday specials or participating in local winter festivals, vendors can attract more customers to their vending machines. The objective here is to create a shopping experience that caters to the customers’ needs and engages them in a way that inspires them to keep coming back for more. To achieve this goal, vendors can explore creative ideas such as incorporating holiday themes into their branding, offering gifts with purchases, or hosting charity events. By capitalizing on the unique opportunities the winter season presents, vendors can build brand loyalty, increase sales, and foster a positive relationship with their customers.

Embracing Seasonality in Your Vending Business

As a vending machine business owner, it’s essential to understand the unique characteristics of each season to maximize your profits. By carefully analyzing the demands and opportunities presented by each season, you can strategically adapt your vending strategies to ensure your business is successful year-round.

One way to stay up-to-date on the latest trends, equipment, and technology in the vending industry is to check out Vending.com’s blog. With regularly updated content, you can find helpful tips and information to help you stay ahead of the competition.

If you’re new to the vending business and looking to get started, Vending.com can help. With over 90 years of experience, we have the expertise to help you find the perfect vending machine solutions and equipment to help you stay successful and profitable year-round. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you get started in the vending industry.

September blog graphic banner for Vending.com with seasonal design elements.

Posted on November 21, 2025 | by Phil Masters | Leave a Comment

How to Curate Wellness Healthy Vending Options That Boost Sales

Wellness isn’t just a trend, it’s a booming $6.3 trillion global industry with a clear path to $9 trillion by 2028. For vending operators, this is a major business opportunity in motion. Consumers today aren’t just looking for chips and soda; they want wholesome, convenient options that support their on-the-go lifestyle. You can meet that demand while boosting your profits.

At Vending.com, we’re helping businesses meet this growing demand with wellness-focused vending machines designed to boost both health and profits.

In this blog

We’ll cover:

Tap into the growing demand for healthy vending.

Stock the right nutritious products to attract customers.

Boost profits with smart pricing and layout strategies.

Use Vending.com’s wellness machines to grow your business effortlessly.