Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in February 2024 and was updated for accuracy.
As a vending machine operator, one of the most important things to consider is your vending machine location. Finding the best vending machine location can mean the difference between success and failure in the vending industry. In this blog, we’ll give you some tips on how to find the best vending machine location, from someone who’s been in the industry for years: Quani from Rayzo Vending.
What Makes a Vending Machine Location Good
Before we figure out how to find vending machine locations, it’s important to ask, what makes a vending machine location good in the first place?
High Foot Traffic: The location should be in an area where people frequently pass by or gather.
Convenient: The vending machine should be placed in a spot that is easily accessible to users.
Visible: The machine needs to be clearly visible to attract attention.
Secure: The vending machine location should be safe to prevent vandalism or theft.
Permitted: The location should be legally approved to house a vending machine.
Hooked Up: If required, it should have a reliable power supply and sufficient space to install and maintain it.
Uncrowded: The location should not have too many other competing vending machines in the area as this might dilute customer interest.
How to Find Vending Machine Locations
So, now that you know what you’re looking for, how do you find that prime vending machine location?
1. Use Google
As Rayzo Vending mentioned in this video, Google can help your business in two ways. First, having a Google business page and a website is a great way to attract potential clients. Make sure your business information is up to date and easy to find, and there’s a good chance potential clients will come to you. Secondly, Google can help you do research to potential vending machine locations in your areas. Great locations for vending machines include: apartment complexes, office buildings, and schools.
2. Come Prepared
When you go to check out a potential vending machine location, make sure you’re prepared. Bring a vending proposal with you that outlines the benefits of having your machines on site. Include information about the types of products you offer, the maintenance schedule, and the dimensions of your machines. You can bring a snack basket showing off your most popular products with you to show the decision makers that you’re serious about your business. It’s also good to come with your vending agreement and other important documents you need to close the deal.
3. Do a Site Inspection
When you arrive at the vending machine location, do a thorough site inspection. Look for areas where your machines could be placed, and make sure there’s enough space for customers to use them comfortably. Measure the space to see what kinds of machines can fit there. Check for things like stairs without elevators, which could be a deal breaker, according to Quani. Use a site inspection checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything important.
4. Build Relationships
Once you’ve secured a location, it’s important to build a good relationship with the decision makers. Involve them in the process of choosing the machines, and make sure they’re happy with the products you’re offering. Regularly check in with them to see if there are any issues or concerns that need to be addressed.
Ultimately, figuring out how to find vending machine locations requires a bit of effort and preparation, but it’s worth it in the long run. Use Google to find a potential vending machine location, be prepared with a vending proposal and snack basket, do a thorough site inspection, and build good relationships with the decision makers. With these tips, you’ll be on your way to vending success!
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