So, you’re thinking about getting into the vending machine business? Great choice! But here’s the thing—just owning vending machines isn’t enough. Where you place them is everything. Over the last 10 years, I’ve placed machines in all kinds of locations, from office buildings to gyms, and trust me, some spots make way more money than others. In this guide, I’ll break down the best locations for maximum profit and share a few stories from my own vending journey.
1. High-Traffic Office Buildings
Why?
Employees work long hours and need quick snacks and drinks to keep going. I remember placing a vending machine in a high-rise downtown, and within a week, I had to restock because the afternoon snack rush was insane! Offices with 24-hour staff, like call centers, are also vending goldmines since employees often can’t leave for snacks.
How to Get In
Approach the office manager and highlight how your vending machine can make employees’ lives easier. A small commission or a promise to keep the machine stocked with their favorite snacks can seal the deal. Bonus tip: Offer a mix of healthy and indulgent snacks to cater to different preferences.
2. Apartment Complexes & Condos
Why?
Late-night snack cravings are real. I had a machine in an apartment lobby, and you’d be surprised how many people grabbed a soda or bag of chips at midnight. Machines near laundry rooms or mail areas also see steady traffic.
How to Get In
Chat with property managers and emphasize how it adds convenience for residents. If they’re hesitant, offer a trial run for a few months. Another great incentive is letting them choose some of the snacks you stock based on resident preferences.
3. Hotels & Motels
Why?
Ever checked into a hotel late at night and wished there was an easy snack option? I once placed a machine in a small motel near a highway, and it was a goldmine—travelers were grabbing snacks non-stop! Higher-end hotels may have minibars, but budget-friendly places often rely on vending.
How to Get In
Speak with hotel managers about placing your machine near the check-in desk or pool area. Many hotels already have vending, but if you offer better products or service, they might be willing to switch. Consider offering travel-friendly options like bottled water, protein bars, and aspirin packets.
4. Schools & Universities
Why?
Students run on snacks. I had a machine near a college dorm laundry room, and it practically paid for itself in the first month. Energy drinks and protein bars were the top sellers. University libraries and student lounges are also high-traffic spots.
How to Get In
Find out the school’s vending policies and pitch healthier snack options that fit their guidelines. Some schools prefer to work with independent vendors rather than big vending companies. If you can offer a cashless payment option, it’s a huge plus since many students don’t carry cash.
5. Hospitals & Medical Centers
Why?
Hospital staff, visitors, and patients need quick, accessible snacks. My first vending gig was in a hospital waiting room, and let me tell you—caffeine and comfort snacks flew off the shelves. Doctors and nurses working long shifts love grab-and-go options.
How to Get In
Start with smaller clinics or urgent care centers. Larger hospitals usually have vending contracts, but you never know until you ask! Emphasize healthier snack options, since hospitals often prefer vending solutions that align with wellness initiatives.
6. Gyms & Fitness Centers
Why?
Gym-goers need quick protein boosts. A friend of mine put a machine in a gym with nothing but protein shakes and energy bars, and it crushed it. Machines near locker rooms or weight-lifting areas do especially well.
How to Get In
Talk to gym owners and offer to stock healthy, fitness-friendly snacks. Many are open to adding vending as an extra service for their members. Some gym chains even prefer vending over a smoothie bar since it’s lower maintenance.
7. Truck Stops & Gas Stations
Why?
Truckers and travelers need quick snacks, and vending machines fit the bill perfectly. One of my best-performing machines is in a gas station just off the highway. Hot coffee vending machines can also do well here.
How to Get In
Negotiate with gas station owners and see if you can place your machine near high-traffic areas like restrooms or waiting areas. Offer a mix of quick energy boosters like energy drinks and hearty snacks like beef jerky.
8. Manufacturing Plants & Warehouses
Why?
Workers in these facilities often don’t have time for long breaks. A vending machine with hearty snacks and drinks can be a lifesaver for them. Machines near break rooms or entry/exit points tend to perform well.
How to Get In
Reach out to facility managers and pitch the convenience of keeping employees fueled and hydrated without leaving the workplace. Offer bulk snack packs or meal-replacement shakes to cater to workers with longer shifts.
Final Tips for Securing Locations
- Check the Competition: If a location already has vending, see if you can offer better service, newer machines, or a better product selection.
- Offer a Commission: Some business owners are more likely to allow your machines if they get a small cut of the profits.
- Provide Amazing Service: Keep machines stocked, clean, and working. Business owners will happily keep your machines if customers are happy.
- Go Digital: Having machines that accept card payments or mobile pay (like Apple Pay) makes your machines more appealing to modern customers.
- Monitor Sales Trends: Use vending software to track which items sell best in which locations and adjust inventory accordingly.
Conclusion
The right location can make or break your vending business. The key is to find high-traffic areas where people need quick, convenient snacks. Start reaching out today, secure those prime spots, and watch your vending business thrive!
Have questions or need more tips? Stay tuned for more vending business insights!
