Thinking about adding a vending machine to your commercial, industrial or educational facilities? They’re a great way to keep customers and employees happy, while raking in a little extra profit at the same time. Vending machine businesses are a convenient and easy way to enhance your properties—but if you’re new to the business, you probably have questions about how they work.
Here are some of the most common questions about vending machines, and the answers you need.
How much does it cost to get started?
Depending on whether you buy a machine or work with an established vending machine company, it could be free to run a vending machine. If you want to buy one and stock it yourself, they are usually in the $3,000 to $5,000 range.
Do you need any licenses to get started?
This depends on where you’re located and with whom you work. You’ll typically need at least a business license. Some locations require corporate registration, tax registration, certificate of occupancy, a list of vending machines, a list of foods to be dispensed and any application tax that you’ve paid. If you work with a vending machine supplier, they may assume responsibility for these items.
What is the installation process like?
If you work with a full-service program, they’ll typically scout your location to make sure it’s suitable. Then they’ll begin the installation process. The whole process typically takes about three weeks from start to finish.
How often are the machines serviced?
Machines are serviced depending on how fast your selections sell. If they sell out right away, your machine will be replenished faster. That’s why it’s important to monitor what sells and what doesn’t, and then make adjustments.
How many selections can you have?
Soda machines typically hold about eight to 10 selections, while some snack machines can have up to 40 choices. This will all depend on the machines you choose.
How big are the machines?
An average vending machine is about 80 inches tall, 40 inches wide and 35 inches deep. If you work with a vending machine company, they’ll be sure to tell you about the machine’s dimensions before installation. After all, you need the perfect location for your machine—a place where the machine not only fits, but attracts customers.
Should you find locations yourself?
If you work with a vending machine business, they’ll determine whether your location is a good choice. If you want flexibility and scalability, it’s always smart to start with an existing company, then find additional locations later, if you desire.
How can you make the machines profitable?
The best way to make your machine profitable is to monitor it carefully. This can be done by keeping track of the items yourself, using software or working with your company to provide other solutions.
Vending machine businesses can be profitable and a great way to keep customers, employees and visitors happy. If you have any other vending machine questions, make sure to reach out to the team at ABC Vending Co. today.