5 Mistakes of a New Vending Machine Operator

When you start a vending company, the first thing you want to do is outline the mistakes that you can avoid, to ensure your future success. We’ve outlined the top 5 vending machine business pitfalls new vending machine operators make when first starting out, in hopes you can avoid them:

Inaccurately Calculating Profits
Projecting higher profits than reality can really inhibit your ability to push your vending business further. A safer method is to underestimate your profits, so that you don’t exceed the anticipated spend for the year. The cost of your vending machine needs to be allocated for at least a year in order to be safe in the profit realm. In reality, most vending machines earn back their costs through sales in 12 to 14 months.

Placing Vending Machines in Low Traffic Areas
Priority needs to be placed in your location. It needs to be one of your top priorities when installing a new vending machine. High traffic areas are your best bet when it comes to location, that way the products inside of them can be seen and purchased by your consumer. Make sure the location is properly lit, safe, and easily accessible to everyone.

Ignoring the Buying Habits
Know your base. If you notice that a certain product isn’t selling, try changing the pricing, and vice versa for products that are selling well. Keep in mind your consumer, their buying power, and their purchasing habits – this will help keep your products moving faster and more frequently.

Choosing the Wrong Vending Machine
No matter what type of location, the vending machines supplied by eVending are perfect for expanding the reach of your brand and bringing in additional revenue. Whether you are buying your first vending machine or are looking to widen your vending presence, our affordable vending machines will have you turning a profit in no time. As easy to operate as they are to maintain, our combo vending machines are ideal for all types of establishments, both large and small. From waiting rooms to break areas, our products provide the best in refreshment when it is needed most.

Failing to Service your Vending Machine
A broken or dirty vending machine will not gain the trust of your consumer. Keep your machines functioning properly by regularly scheduling service to them, so your consumer can rely on the efficacy of your vending business. It’s better to keep your machine up to date and running, than constantly running behind schedule trying to fix problems after they happen.

For all of your more realistic vending machine needs, eVending is here for you. Contact us today with any questions regarding vending machine owner mistakes you may have.

Location, Location, Location! Maximize Profit From Your Combo Vending Machine

June 5th, 2018 | Posted by Ajax Union in Vending machine business | Vending machine sales | Vending machines - (Comments Off)

When you are considering a vending business the first step to success is finding the right location to place your vending machine.
Choose a location that provides:
1. A lot of foot traffic
2. High visibility
3. A chance to work with an existing business
4. Work with a new business
When the area is a public place, it is great for potential customers to have the ability to vend snacks and drinks from a combo vending machine that provides a wide variety of options. The more people using the location the more potential profits rise. Your customer satisfaction will bring them back simply because it is a place used by many and they will have the convenience of the snack or drink combo vending machine.
The machine needs to be located somewhere easy for customers to see. If they can see it from a distance, the suggestion alone may draw attention to the combo vending machine to buy from you instead of waiting until they go to the store or get home. With the glass front of the Futura Combo Vending Machine, it makes popular products like snack, candy, food, cans, and bottled products grab their attention.
It is always a great idea to place a machine in front of a business that has at least 50 or more employees. That guarantees a potential steady clientele. Business in the service industry are a great choice as they will draw customers that may be waiting for a car to be fixed, a haircut, or even getting your dog groomed. Look for businesses with services everyone needs and visit frequently.
The choices are limitless when you look for the right combination of factors. Record all of your research and you are sure to come up with the right solution for maximizing profits from vending machines. Don’t wait for opportunity. Create it.
Call today to change your future

1-888-982-8128

Regardless of Location, a Combo Vending Machine is Ideal

June 5th, 2018 | Posted by Ajax Union in Combo vending machines | Vending machine business | Vending machine sales | Vending machines - (Comments Off)

Did you know that over 68% of consumers purchase soda from vending machines at least once a year? And over 62% of consumers purchase cheesy snacks or chips from a vending machine once a year? In fact, the vast majority of consumers have used a vending machine at least once to purchase a drink or snack in the past year. Like peanut butter and jelly or cookies and milk, snacks and beverages are a natural fit. Why not give customers the convenience of a combo vending machine that provides popular snack and drink choices in one machine?

eVending’s Futura Combo Vending Machine vends not only snacks, chips, candy, and gum, but also vends both canned and bottled for drink options. This glass front vendor allows customers to see the actual products they are choosing with its back-lit LED lighting and vast live product display window. Premium currency acceptors help take advantage of the credit / debit card reader options in addition to the standard electronic coin acceptor and $1 and $5 bill acceptor.

eVendings combo vending machines are designed to offer a wide variety of different treats with a relatively small footprint to conserve space and energy. Cutting edge technology and modern payment features will satisfy both you and your customers. eVending’s combo vending machines feature guaranteed vend technology that will ensure that sales do not go through until the item has been dispensed. This technology eliminates frustration from incomplete sales and jammed items.

Combination vending machines are the most versatile and profitable type of machines available. eVending’s Futura Combo machine is the best-selling combo machine on the market and is back by eVending’s 60 months Limited Parts Warranty. Plus, eVending offers complimentary, lifetime phone support through Vendnet for assistance on machine servicing and parts during normal business hour. We also offer a secure online credit application with affordable financing programs.

Affordable, high quality combo vending machines from eVending are a great choice for almost any location big or small. Call 1-888-982-8128 today. We are looking forward to helping you with all of your vending needs.

The 4Ps of Successful Vending

December 13th, 2017 | Posted by Ajax Union in Buy vending machines | Vending machine business | Vending machine sales | Vending machines - (Comments Off)

How to make the case for providing workplace vending machines and the importance of the 4Ps: Product, pricing, placement, and promotion
If your business is considering adding company vending machines, here are four key things to remember for vending success.
1. Product – What kind of vending do you intend to utilize? Do you need drinks, snacks or food? Maybe you are looking for a combination of options?
2. Pricing – Cheaper impulse items should be placed at eye level for a quick response from customers. Larger higher priced items such as food will be sought out by someone looking for meal options.
3. Placement – It is usually a good idea to vend healthier snack and drink options in health clubs, doctors’ offices or any location people will be concerned with eating right. If you need high energy options, they are perfect for locations such as skate parks or swimming pools.
4. Promotion – Promote seasonal items whenever possible giving your customers new unexpected flavors to help celebrate the holidays.
If you or your company are considering a vending machine service option for your location, it is important to come up with a solid plan for what kind of vending is needed.
• Are employees only going to use the machines?
• Will the public have access to your vending machines?
• Do you want to offer drinks, food, or snacks?
• Will frozen foods be an option?
• Are there going to be power outlets available?
• How much space will the machines take?
eVending has a vending machine option to fit any need whether big or small. We can help you with a solution to fit any size location. Our combo vending machines can be combined with individual snack or drink machines to add more flexibility to serve customers better. You are in complete control when it comes to deciding what you want to provide to make the best profit for your business. We not only provide superior vending equipment, we also help with online tech support and parts ordering to make your vending experience the best in the industry.
Call us today and let our team of experts help you get started with your vending business.

Cashless Vending Is a Must Have

December 13th, 2017 | Posted by Ajax Union in Vending machine business | Vending machine sales | Vending machines - (Comments Off)

In today’s vending market cashless is a must have.
Why a combo vending machine coupled with cashless payment options is a home run for almost any type of business.
Watch your sales increase with a combo vending machine equipped with a credit card payment system. Not only will your customers have the ability to vend different snack, food or drink options, they will have the convenience of paying without cash. Credit card readers allow freedom from worrying whether your dollar bill will be accepted in the system or be kicked out. With a cashless vending machine there is no need to worry about having the correct change or the coins getting stuck or lost in the change machine.
Electronic payments are easy to track with our tracking software. You can log in and see how many transactions are going through your machine per day, week, or month. Web based account monitoring allows access anywhere you have access to the Internet. Even with your web enabled Smartphone! Cashless vending system options allow you to have a more flexible schedule and set your own hours by letting the machine do all the work.
Having a combo vending machine is great for almost any location and can become even more profitable for your business no matter how big or small with the cashless option.
In general, customers feel more comfortable knowing they are using a secure payment system from a reputable company and are more willing to swipe their credit card for vending purchases.
Give eVending a call today and let us help you find the perfect cashless combo vending machine for your location. We will get you started with our state of the art card reader.

How Millennials are Influencing the Vending Industry

August 17th, 2016 | Posted by Ajax Union in Vending machine business - (Comments Off)

Millennials influencing vending industry has become a focus for savvy business owners to increase sales.
There are many stereotypes and assumptions surrounding Millennials (ages 18-34). For example, they have been described as lazy and narcissistic yet at the same time they are viewed as active and engaged. Regardless of the mixed opinions of Millennials, the influence they have on society cannot be ignored. With many of them entering adulthood it’s time to put more focus on marketing to this demographic.

With 75.4 million of them, making up a quarter of the U.S. population, it’s no wonder why Millennials have so much power over industry trends. Millennial’s buying power equals nearly $200 billion, making them one of the most profitable markets today. Savvy vending operators are taking note by keeping the preferences of Millennials in mind when making decisions regarding their businesses. Things to be considered are payment methods, what products are stocked in the machines, as well as eco-friendly features.

Millennials grew up in a technology rich environment, the revolution of smartphones brought an era of instant communication and connectivity. In recent years, smartphones have become a platform for payment options, which isn’t surprising considering that cash carry is virtually non-existent among Millennials. Today, mobile payment options such as Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and credit / debit cards are essential. As the vending industry becomes more mobile friendly, vending operators can expect satisfied customers and increased sales.

Keep in mind that cash and coin payment is still viable across the market as a whole, so don’t toss your traditional payment systems just yet. The smartest solution is to allow for a variety of payment types. Lucky for you, eVending machines come equipped with cash and coin acceptors as well as the ability to be fitted with a debit / mobile payment reader.

In terms of what kind of products Millennials want in machines, recent trends indicate that there is a market for healthy vending. Unfortunately this sort of thing is hard to nail down as far as what locations will respond positively to healthy foods. This has created a challenge for vending operators. If you happen to find an area where healthy vending is in demand and profitable, eVending has a selection of machines that can meet your needs. All of our machines have configurable flex trays that can conform to a variety of shapes and sizes; we even have a refrigerated elevator machine that will gently deliver food items such as salads and sandwiches.

Another common trend among Millennials and consumers in general is their focus on green, sustainable business practices. In fact, 49.4% of all respondents in a recent study said that when they see a product whose manufacturers use eco-friendly manufacturing and distribution methods they are more likely to buy that product; this increases to 56% for millennials.

eVending strives to be eco-friendly by engaging in environmentally friendly and efficient practices, we are proud to be a small but vital part in addressing environmental sustainability and climate change. In support for action on climate change eVending’s parent company, The Wittern Group, joined 153 companies in signing the American Business Act on Climate Pledge. Additionally, all of our machines include energy saving, eco-friendly features such as eurothane high efficiency insulation and long life LED lighting and credit display.

The landscape for vending machine operators is changing, stay on top of the trends by offering your customers top of the line, versatile machines with eVending.

eco friendly, Millennials, Vending

SB16 Single Brew Coffee Vendor

August 3rd, 2016 | Posted by Ajax Union in Buy vending machines | Vending machine business | Vending machines | Vending machines for sale - (Comments Off)

Coffee Consumption Trends

Full-size-CTop-Pod-Vending-Machine Millennials’ taste preferences are a driving force in recent coffee consumption trends. According to an article on Vending Market Watch, in the last eight years consumption of gourmet coffee beverages increased from 13% to 36% among consumers aged 18 to 24 while gourmet coffee consumption for older Millennials (aged 25 to 39) increased from 19% to 41%.

With increasing numbers of Millennials and younger generations entering the workforce, it’s time to start thinking about ways to offer a coffee service solution that fits the consumption trends. According to 2016 NCDT data, 70% of the cups of coffee consumed at work come from the office coffee area, with over half of the respondents unhappy with their current coffee situation it’s time for a change. One solution could be offering a single serve coffee maker, such as the Keurig® Brewing System. These machines offer a wider range of coffee options that will appeal to Millennials. Consumers can choose between their favorite brand of a traditional cup of coffee or a more gourmet option, like espresso-based coffee without having to leave the office.

With the growing popularity of single serve coffee machines and the demand for more coffee variety in offices, more companies will likely offer single serve brewing machines in their break areas. Subsequently, these businesses will need a way to control their coffee pod inventory.

eVending is on the forefront of innovation with their SB16 Single Brew Coffee Vendor which offers professional, secure dispensing of single serve coffee pods, including K-Cups®. With the SB16’s built-in security you will never have to worry about employees walking off with coffee pods again. The compact size of the machine is perfect for placement on any standard 36 inch countertop with 18 inch cabinet to counter spacing. Plus the sleek modern design with glass front display shows all items on hand and will draw customers in. With 16 unique single serve coffee pod selections and a capacity of 256 total single serve coffee pods, the SB16 Single Brew Coffee Vendor offers employees with a great selection of popular, brand-name coffee pods.

Let the SB16 Single Brew integrate seamlessly into your vending business while increasing sales opportunities. This machine allows you to see which items are popular and which are not so that you can select the best coffee pods, including K-Cups®, for your location. With this feature you can drive your revenue up by stocking your machines with the preferences of customers at each location. The SB16 Coffee Vendor will fit perfectly in any office area and offers the perfect solution for businesses to dispense their coffee pod inventory.

Coffee, coffee vending machine, K-Cup, Single Brew, Vending

eVending Free Premium Delivery Offer

July 15th, 2016 | Posted by Ajax Union in Buy vending machines | Vending machine business | Vending machines for sale - (Comments Off)

We are offering a free upgrade to Premium Delivery for a limited time. eVending’s Premium Delivery Service is a $150.00 retail value and includes inside placement and uncrating of the vending machine as well as the disposal of all material used to package and ship the vending machine. Stairs / steps and narrow doorways are not included as a part of the Premium Delivery Service, but can be quoted on an individual basis. Through our Premium Delivery Service, once the vending machine is shipped from eVending’s manufacturing facility in Clive, Iowa, the time it takes for the machine to arrive is approximately two (2) week depending on the customer location.

Taxes for sales only to billing and shipping addresses in the state of Iowa will apply. This offer is valid for eVending vending machine purchases only. Not valid on the Table Top Snack Vending Machine, the Greenlite wireless credit card reader, prior vending machine purchases through eVending, or orders for vending machines placed with eVending prior to the beginning of the Free Premium Delivery Service Upgrade promotion period. Offer cannot be redeemed for cash or combined with other eVending offers or credits. Not valid for resale.

From in house financing to access to a nationwide service network, eVending offers everything you need to start, grow, or manage your vending business. We have been producing quality vending machines at our location in Des Moines, Iowa for 85 years. With such a long time in the industry, we’ve been able to build up a loyal customer base and are happy to provide the best products on the market.

Contact eVending today at 866-604-0432 to learn more about eVending’s Free Premium Delivery and full line of vending machines.

Mobile Payment Options Increase Vending Machine Sales

June 29th, 2016 | Posted by Ajax Union in Buy vending machines | Vending machines - (Comments Off)

As technology progresses, fewer and fewer consumers are carrying cash and coins. Instead, financial transactions via credit and mobile devices are becoming more common. What’s more, card swiping devices, mobile payment, and other digital payment options are predicted to overtake ‘traditional’ payment methods in the near future, making it a must have in today’s vending market.

Research reveals that 49% of consumers, and 56% of Millennials, are already using / interested in using mobile payment technology and 18% of consumers say that they would use mobile payments if more locations accepted it.

Many consumers today, Millennials in particular, rarely carry cash and prefer cashless options such as credit / debit cards or other options such as Apple Pay which will likely be a revenue driver for vending machines. In fact, a recent study that began in March of 2016 found that vending machines advertising Apple Pay increased overall revenue by 22% while contactless purchases from those same vending machines rose 89%.

With all of that said, the market for cash and coin vending is still viable so don’t scrap your traditional payment acceptors just yet. The best way to increase your profit would be to provide customers with the best of both worlds by installing both cashless payment options and coin and cash acceptors on your machines.

All of eVending’s machines are equipped with the latest electronic coin changer and bill acceptor and have a standard peripheral opening for additional payment options such as Greenlite, a cashless system that accepts debit / credit cards and mobile payments including Apple Pay. With Greenlite, you are able to remotely monitor your vending machine’s transactions from your web-based account.

Contact eVending today if you are interested purchasing a new vending machine with a cashless system or would like to add Greenlite’s mobile / wireless payment option to an existing vending machine.

Apple Pay, Mobile Pay, vending business, Vending Machine, vending technology

Are you ready to become a Vending Operator?

June 3rd, 2016 | Posted by Ajax Union in Vending machine business - (Comments Off)

Vending is very much an entrepreneurs business. Vending operators essentially run their own small businesses. As a vending operator you must become a jack of all trades as you will be taking on a lot of responsibilities. You will be managing things such as product restocking, service calls, machine maintenance, finances, travel between locations, and administrative duties. While entering the industry as a vending operator may seem overwhelming, do not be discouraged as becoming a vending operator can be quite rewarding.

You may be wondering if the vending business is right for you. Let’s consider the advantages and disadvantages. As an operator owning your own vending machines, you will enjoy higher profit margins and will be allowed greater flexibility in pricing and product offerings. To enter the industry as an operator you will need money up-front to purchase the machine. Plus you will need to buy product to stock your machine.

As the factory direct supplier of vending machines, eVending in one of the only manufactures to provide in-house financing for machines purchases (based upon credit approval). eVending offers a variety of accommodating financing options, ranging from six (6) months to 48 months. Plus eVending offers no monthly payments for the first 90 days. With an average item profit of $0.50, your vending machine could pay for itself with sales of just seven to ten snacks or drinks per day. eVending’s financing options are ideal for operator entering the vending industry to be more affordable and profitable than ever.

As you prepare to put your business plan into action, you may want to make a list tailored to your needs as the operator. The following are several tips to help you prepare to enter the industry as a vending operator.

Have a business plan – It pays to plan. Have you thought about what your goals are or how the math works out? With vending profit is not immediately obvious, there will be a significant delay between your actions and financial results. If you want to get an idea of what your machines will bring in, eVending’s profit calculator is a useful tool. The calculation takes in to account the number of machines you have, vends per day, the cost of the product, and the vend price of the product to give you the most accurate prediction of your future profits.
Be sure to align your business plan with your financial as well as lifestyle goals.
Select the vending machine type – Over the years vending machines have evolved beyond cookies and crackers. Today, you can vend anything from gumballs to a full meal. Decide which market you want to enter then find the machine that best suits your needs.
Get the proper licenses – Before you get started, check with your local licensing office for requirements in your area.
Buy the machines – Now that you have decided what type of machine is best for your location, you will need to purchase the machines. eVending offers a full-line of machines that are 100% manufactured in the USA. Our new machines come with a one year limited parts warranty and are specially designed to provide maximum energy output with minimal electrical requirements which help keep your expenses as low as possible. Additionally, our new machines can be managed remotely due to their cellular based designs.
Buy or lease a vending truck – You will need a vehicle to move products from machine to machine and even to move the machines themselves. The size and type of vehicle you need will depend on the size of your operation.
Find a supplier – Buy your products in bulk through stores such as Sam’s Club and Costco or a site that sells candy in bulk. Be sure not to buy quantities so large that they expire before you can sell them.
Secure your locations – When selecting a location look for places with high foot traffic. Think along the lines of an office, mall, bowling alley, or hotel. Be sure to check out each site in person before approaching the owner to secure a deal.
Service your machines – Now that your machines are placed you will be in charge of upkeep. This will involve keeping the machine functioning, clean, and well-stocked. Depending on your machine’s popularity, this may need to be done more than once a week. When you purchase one of our machines you will have access to eVending’s complimentary phone customer support as well as to Vendnet— your one stop source for parts, service, and vending products, with online support for vending machine manuals or parts ordering.

Finally, the National Automatic Merchandising Association’s (NAMA) Vending101 article is a good resource for a more in depth look at the industry.

If you decide you’re ready to make your way as a vending operator, visit www.evending.com to learn more or contact eVending today at 1-888-915-7572.

Vending, Vending Machine Business