How many times have you wished to report to nobody but yourself? Imagine having not to show up on performance reviews, no politics, and no micromanaging. You simply work your way every single day to achieve your goals and dreams. You may now ask, “Are these even possible?” Yes, thanks to vending machines.
With more and more people wanting to grab something quick to eat or drink, it’s no surprise why the vending machine business is gaining more traction. However, with lots of vending machine suppliers nowadays, making an informed choice is never easy.
You can’t just call a supplier you came across online and tell them you want this and that. You have to know your supplier first. When you contact a vending machine supplier, you will be asked questions like “What type of vending machine do you want?” or “What do you want to sell?” Why? This is because some suppliers specialise in a certain type of vending machine, whereas others can supply you with customised ones.
7 Common Types of Vending Machines
Here is a quick run through of the most common types of vending machines today:
1. Combination Vending Machines
These are machines that stock a wide range of treats, drinks, and snacks. They are often stocked with exclusive products and ingredients from some of the world’s best brands.
2. Drink Vending Machines
These vending machines are capable of holding bottles of soda, boxes of dairy, energy drinks, water, and a lot more. They are generally stocked with beverages that will surely satisfy thirsty consumers.
3. Snack Vending Machines
For consumers who want to grab something fresh and satisfying, then snack vending machines are the go-to machines. These are often stocked with treats and snacks that are sure to satisfy even the pickiest eater’s taste desires.
4. Elevator Vending Machines
These machines are ideal for fragile products as they have a range of storage for bags, bars, trays, cans, and bottles. They are designed to take products quickly without damaging the packaging.
5. Coffee Vending Machines
For people who can’t last a day without a cup of coffee, these vending machines are a life-saver. These machines often have a selection of hot drinks, available for consumers to make a choice.
6. Frozen Products Vending Machines
Frozen vending machines serve a vast selection of frozen food items. These foods aren’t necessarily healthy. Some serve ice creams, while others dispense frozen meat.
7. Touchscreen Vending Machines
Touchscreen vending machines may be relatively new, but they dispense premium products at high volumes. Although they are quite expensive compared to the traditional machines, they are a great source of revenue.
How to Choose a Vending Machine Supplier
Assuming you have already made up your mind and have decided what type of vending machine to invest in, the next thing you should do is to contact a vending machine supplier.
When choosing a supplier, it is important to do your homework first. Most of the time, the supplier will help survey your potential location whether it’s good for your business. However, you have to do your part and ask them things to make sure they make a good supplier.
To help you decide, here are some factors to consider:
1. Experience
The number of years a vending machine supplier has been in business can be a testament to their service. It does not necessarily suggest that a new company cannot provide the same quality benefits. It’s just that the number of years can be an indication of a supplier’s knowledge of the industry.
2. Customer Satisfaction
Much like experience, the number of locations that the supplier caters to is often a good indicator that they are more than capable of providing excellent service. It’s as if they’re telling you that they have done something really good that new customers are signing with them.
3. Brand Partners
Some vending machine suppliers have already partnered with world-renowned brands like Pepsi and Coke. Others don’t. So, if you are looking to sell a specific product from a certain brand, make sure to ask your supplier first. Be sure that the supplier has the product you want.
4. Vending Machine Management
When it comes to operating vending machines, there are plenty of logistics involved. Aside from keeping up with weekly inventories, there are these regular maintenance schedules. But if you deal with a supplier that uses a vending machine management software, everything can be run more efficiently and smoothly.
5. Liability Insurance
A trustworthy vending machine supplier should offer at least a basic liability insurance. If they don’t, you must really think twice whether or not they are capable of providing excellent service.
6. Costs
Of course, you need money to purchase vending machines. Depending on the type of vending machine you are getting, the costs vary. It would be great to compare costs from one supplier to another. This way, disappointments are avoided.
Start a Vending Machine Business Today!
Being your own boss makes a vending machine business rewarding in itself. But to be able to reap the perks of these machines, one has to be wise in choosing a vending machine supplier.
To be sure you are on the right hands, deal with TCN Vending. As Australia’s leading suppliers of vending machines, you will never run out of options. Call us at 1800 959 910 and let’s talk business!