r/vendingmachines

https://preview.redd.it/zxlly86ab12h1.png?width=331&format=png&auto=webp&s=f0c0c438939671b2e4812810683cc22d3f9bccd0

I used to think the hardest part was just getting the machine and finding a place to put it.

Now after reading more from people actually doing it it seems like the real challenges start after that.

Things like finding the right location, buying the machine, restocking, repairs, slow locations, product choices, payment issues, or just staying consistent with it.

For anyone already running machines, what’s been the most frustrating or unexpected part so far?

My girlfriend and I are working on starting a modern age-verified vape/nightlife essentials vending machine business in Austin and wanted to get some honest feedback from people that actually go out regularly.

The machines would be placed in 21+ bars/clubs only and would carry things like:

\-disposable vapes
\-nicotine pouches
\-chargers/cables
\-gum/mints
\-other late-night essentials

We’re trying to figure out what areas or specific bars people think would actually benefit from something like this late at night.

Where have you been out in Austin and thought:
“Damn, I wish I could buy a vape/charger/etc right now”?
Would love recommendations for:
\-bars
\-clubs
\-music venues
\-patios
\-rooftop bars
\-East 6th / West 6th / Rainey spots
\-anywhere with heavy late-night foot traffic
Also curious:
Would you actually use something like this or no?
Trying to build something useful and not annoying lol

Hi everyone,

I'm planning to start a small vending business on Madeira Island (Portugal) and would love to get feedback from people who've done this before — especially in tourist-heavy locations.

**The setup**

My idea is to place vending machines in 4 Offices that i have direct access and i will not need to pay rent.

Phase 1 would be 4–5 machines:
- 2 machines at our rent-a-car offices near the airport (~729 and ~500 car rental contracts in April alone)
- 2 machines at offices in central Funchal (~178 and ~229 contracts in April)

**Why I think this works**

The rent-a-car context is almost ideal for vending: customers are waiting for paperwork, they just landed, they're thirsty and hungry, and they rarely have local change. April alone = 1,636 contracts across 4 locations, with summer (July/August) expected to be 40–45% higher based on tourism seasonality.

No rent = no location cost, which is the single biggest risk in most vending businesses.

**My product focus**

After doing research I'm leaning heavily towards:
- Water (50cl)
- Chocolate bars
- Energy bars
- Energy drinks
- Soft drinks/juice cans

**My questions for experienced operators:**

1. Where i can buy brand new machines, or used machines? Preferentially from europe.

2. Water + chocolate/energy bars seems like the obvious product mix for this audience. Any products you've found surprisingly well at airport/car rental locations?

3. Has anyone used micro markets or smart coolers instead of traditional machines for this type of location? Wondering if an open shelf setup would convert better than a closed machine.

4. Any red flags you see in this plan that I'm missing?

Thanks in advance — really appreciate any real-world experience here.

[supprimé]

Does anyone have any experience with Necta and Sanden Vendo machines.

Looking at buying a necta rondo 2015 for 2.5k vs a Sanden Vendo BS8 G-snack 2025 with nayax onyx reader for 1.8k.

Only problem is the sanden vendo machines aren't as established in europe and im worried about their complexity for repairs.

The more I read about vending, the more it feels like people underestimate some part of it in the beginning.

What do you think catches most beginners off guard?

Getting the wrong machine?
Finding a location that just doesn’t perform?
Thinking it’ll be more passive than it actually is?
Or something else?

Would be interesting to hear what experienced people noticed early on.

Hi vending fam,

2 weeks ago I talked about my experience of getting out there, going door to door, to try and find someone who’ll let me place a machine.

Today… it happened!!!

I can’t believe it I’m so excited about it haha. I found a school that is going to let me put something in their teacher’s lounge.

I know it may not be the biggest location with the most foot traffic but I am so proud of myself for getting out there and just making it happen.

Want to share some quick context but in short, I got lucky and created an opportunity to take over a location that was being neglected. A unsatisfied school staff wanting more. (If youre interested in the details check the story in the link).

I plan to edit this and add more context later but I just want to thank everyone for all of the tips. Just going to keep it up! And for anyone out there struggling just keep going. Get out there and talk to people!!!

Traditional Vending VS Smart Vending

I see a lot of people talking about smart vending machines lately, and I get the appeal.

They look cleaner, payments feel smoother, some let customers grab items directly, and the whole setup feels more modern. For apartments, offices, gyms, and premium locations, I can see why they get attention.

But traditional machines still seem hard to beat in some ways. They’re proven, easier to understand, parts are usually available, and people already know exactly how to use them. Less fancy, but maybe less risky too.

For someone just starting out, I’m curious what people here think.

Would you rather start with a traditional machine and learn the basics first?

Or go straight into smart vending if the location fits?

I feel like smart machines might work better in high-trust or higher-end locations, while traditional machines still make more sense for rougher, high-traffic, or budget-conscious spots.

Anyone here used both? What did you like or regret about either one?

Hey guys!

Im starting my first vending machine business. I have already got the basics LLC, TPT, EIN, and business bank acct. Im in the process of looking for locations but was wondering what are some good machines? Im leaning towards this list:

CandyMachines.com:

AMS 35 Snack and Drink Combo Vending Machine

$7,687.00

AMS 39 Snack and Drink Combo Vending Machine

$8,675.00

A&M Equipment Sales (all prices include bill/coin validator and cantalope G11 eport card reader)

AMS 35 Chilled Snack Machine $7,454.00

AMS 35 Snack Vending Machine $5,854.00

AMS 39 Combo Machine $7,654

WebstaurantStore

Selectivend 29-Selection Ambient / Refrigerated Snack And Drink Combo Vending Machine with Coin Mechanism, Bill Validator, and Card Reader

$5,919.00

Please give any helpful tips, pros/cons and any other websites that would be good to purchase from. Any good card readers too Cantalope G11 eport or Nayax VPOS touch maybe Greenlite? Tips on how to keep track of profits (EX: Quickbooks)? Insurance companies for the machine?

My first time starting a small business looking for all the advice I can get thank you guys!

I bought 5 machines, failed to place 3. I would like to sell these 3. They're still in the warehouse, so I don't think either of us would have to pay for it to be shipped or for insurance on shipping. Can be shipped anywhere in the Continental US (excluding Washington). They're 16 months old, never used. They have card readers and accept cash, specifically: $5/$1bills $1 coins, quarters, nickels, and dimes. They vend drinks (refrigerated) and snacks (not refrigerated). I'll attach the specs in the comments.

I’m moving to Boston in a few weeks and I’m interested in getting into setting up some vending machine locations. Is anyone willing to give some advice or even hop on a call about the right locations/sales processes to set up a machine.

I can sell decently well, have business experience, and I can think of some decent spots but I’m curious what some more experienced professionals have to say.

Thank you all 🫶🏽

Hey guys,

Today let's talk about a common issue almost all new operators encounter when starting a vending machine.

I have seen a lot of beginners fail in product selection. they stock items they like , instead of what the people at the location want.

I have summarized some tips that work really well for me:

• Match products to your location: office, factory, gym, schools, each has different demands, you can't use the same inventory for all locations.
• Try new items with small quantities to see which one sells best, don't overstock
• Stick to classic top selling items: water, soda, chips, basic snacks. sometimes, healthy snacks may not fit your location.
• The most important thing is to track your sales, record what sell best and eliminate slow items.

Product selection really matters for your business.

what's your best-selling products in your machine right now? Feel free to share!