Vending Machine Service

Although they seem to be everywhere, some research will be required to determine what type of vending machine is needed and exactly which spots might be most profitable for you. Without a doubt, you’ll need good marketing and sales skills for this occupation. For example, solicit large factories to find out if they have round-theclock shifts and need “real food” such as soup and sandwiches. Or, if it’s a small fi rm, will only soda and candy machines do? Once you’ve obtained a client, that customer should be able to tell you what to stock, but ask to tour the facility so you can get a good idea of where to actually place the machine. If you go with soda and candy, make sure your client company will place your machine in a high-traffic area.


Start-up costs depend on what type of vending machine you will want to use. Bubble gum machines cost as little as $100 and cappuccino machines can run as high as $1,000 or more. Whatever machine you decide to go with will be a winner if you market correctly, and you could earn $20,000 to $35,000.


Hit the big factories and large businesses. They usually pay you to come to them and don’t require the 10 percent fee. You will also have to follow up on your machines; every day in a large business and a minimum of once a week for smaller-volume vending machines. This can pretty much be a five-day-a-week job, since most businesses close for the weekend.

Approx. cost of start-up: $1,000 to $20,000


Approx. potential earnings: $20,000 to $35,000, depending on the machine location and type


Typical fees: $100 to $500 per month, per machine


Where to promote: Direct mail, Yellow Pages


Qualifications: Excellent sales ability


Things needed: Vending machines and the products to fill them


Required staff:No


Hidden costs: Payment to the property owner of an average of 10 percent of earnings from each machine