• The vending machine industry is booming and expected to reach over $25 billion value by 2027, according to Allied Market Research. 
• Vending machine businesses have low startup costs and can be highly profitable if managed effectively. 
• You don’t need to have the funding saved up and may qualify for small business loans or business credit cards for a vending machine business.
• Learn what a vending machine business is, the types you can run, the pros and cons, how to get into the vending machine business, and what funding is best for this type of small business in this article from Nav’s experts.

What Is a Vending Machine Business?

A vending machine company is run by a business owner, often called a vending machine operator. The vending machine operator purchases one or more vending machines, scouts out locations to place them, negotiates with property owners, and maintains the stock inside of the machines themselves. The operator doesn’t always restock the machines themselves; they may hire employees for that, but it depends on the scale of the vending business. 

A successful vending machine business depends on your goals. You may not want to go full-time. Owning a vending machine business can also be a lucrative side hustle. Small business loans and credit cards can help with upfront costs, but the initial vending machine costs don’t have to be huge. You can choose refurbished equipment and start with a single machine to keep costs reasonable. 

Types of Vending Machine Businesses

You don’t have to sell soda if you don’t want to — you have options. Although drink machine sales still tend to be the most profitable, there are countless kinds of vending machine businesses you can run. Here are the four main categories of vending machine businesses:

• Food and beverage vending
• Bulk vending
• Specialty vending
• Franchised vending

It’s important to research the hurdles of each type of business before you decide which route you want to go. Choosing one kind and sticking to it in the beginning can make ramping up your business easier and decrease how much you have to learn as you go. What you choose to sell will impact the type of machine you buy, as some products need refrigeration and electricity while others only need a quarter and a turn.

We go into more detail about each vending machine business type in the next section.

Vending Machine Business Ideas

The type of machine business you choose should be easy for you to manage, sell well in your area, and fit within your budget. Feel free to use your imagination. For example, the company SouveNEAR brings locally made gifts to airports and travel hubs that customers can purchase out of vending machines while they’re on the go. Keep in mind that inventory costs money, so make sure you can afford to restock. 

Snacks, food, or beverage vending

Many vending machines sell drinks or food. For beverage vending machines, you can choose to partner with and sell a specific brand, like Coca-Cola. Or you can stock it with what you want to sell. It’s best to choose drinks only or snacks only in the beginning to limit the amount of education you need from the start.

With food or snack vending machines, you also have options on what you can sell. For example, placing a healthy snacks vending machine in a private gym might be a success. As long as you do your market research and place the machine in the right location, it has a good chance of creating income.

Bulk vending

Bulk vending is often the most affordable type of vending to get into since you’re selling nonperishable items like small toys, stickers, or gumballs. You don’t need to worry about keeping your stock refrigerated. And many bulk vending machines only need the customer to put in a quarter and turn the knob, so you also may not have to worry about electricity. These machines are typically cheaper to buy and stock than other options, as well.

Specialty vending

Specialty vending machines run the gamut. You can sell anything from local gifts to portable electronics to laundry products (placed in laundromats or dorms). Selling coffee and hot chocolate from a hot beverage vending machine is another option. These types of vending products may be more complicated if you’re new at running a vending machine business, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Get into a franchise

If you’d prefer more support and training than starting your own business, you can look into franchising a vending machine business. You’ll be able to take a business model that works and run with it rather than starting from scratch. However, keep in mind that you’ll have to pay part of your income to the franchiser, which may not make the higher support worth it. 

Pros and Cons of Owning a Vending Business

There are positives and negatives to starting any business. Here’s a breakdown of what to think about before starting your own vending machine business.

How Profitable Is Owning a Vending Machine? 

Your profit margin per vending machine will depend on the type of machine, the cost of your inventory, and the vending machine location. A good location and a desirable product that fits into your budget make it more likely that you’ll be successful. 

Your overall profits depend on how many machines you operate. You typically need quite a few machines to be able to take this business full time. Owning a vending machine business is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Each machine brings in between $5 and $100 per week, on average. You might only be making $20 per month on a single vending machine, but remember that it’s passive income. If your business has many vending machines, you’ll have a lot more work on your plate — but also the potential to make up to $400 per month on average on every one.

How Much Is a Vending Machine Business?

The cost of starting a vending machine business can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type and number of machines, the products you plan to sell, the location of the machines, and other related expenses. Here are some key components to consider when estimating the cost of a vending machine business:

1. Initial investment: Your initial investment covers the cost of purchasing the vending machines themselves. The price of each machine can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the type and features.
2. Inventory: You’ll need to stock your vending machines with products. The cost of inventory will depend on the type and quantity of items you plan to sell. It’s essential to choose popular and high-demand products to help with steady sales.
3. Location fees: If you’re placing your vending machines in high-traffic areas, you may need to pay location fees or commissions to the business or property owner. These fees can vary and may be a fixed monthly amount or a percentage of your sales.
4. Maintenance and repairs: Vending machines require regular maintenance, occasional repairs, and restocking. You’ll need to budget for ongoing maintenance costs to keep your machines in working order.
5. Transportation and installation: Depending on the size and weight of the vending machines, you may need to pay for transportation and installation at each location.
6. Permits and licenses: Some regions may require specific permits and licenses to operate vending machines. The cost and requirements can differ depending on your location.
7. Insurance: It’s a good idea to have insurance coverage for your vending machines and business operations to protect against potential liabilities.
8. Marketing and promotions: To attract customers and boost sales, you might need to invest in marketing and promotional efforts.

As you can see, the cost of starting a vending machine business can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, or even more, depending on the scale and complexity of your venture. Before starting, you’ll want to create a detailed business plan and budget to understand the initial investment and ongoing expenses better.

How Do You Fund a Vending Machine Business? 

The method you choose to fund your vending machine business depends on your personal circumstances and the type of machines you want to operate. If you have savings, you might be able to fund a standard machine from your own money. For mechanical machines, you’ll spend an average of $2,000 to $3,000, while an electronic machine will usually cost more than $3,000. You can often find refurbished machines for less than that, too.

If you don’t have savings, however, you can still start a vending machine business. There are business credit cards and small business loans that you may qualify for to fund your vending machine startup or expansion costs. 

How to Buy a Vending Machine Business

You might prefer to buy an existing vending machine business — which can be a great way to enter the world of entrepreneurship with an established and potentially profitable venture. Here are the steps you’ll want to follow.

1. Research the market: Start by researching the vending machine industry in your target area. Understand the demand for vending services, popular products, and the competition. Analyze the different types of vending machines and their profitability.
2. Determine your budget: Set your budget for buying a business. Consider not only the purchase price but also the additional funds required for inventory, machine maintenance, and any potential renovations or improvements.
3. Identify businesses for sale: Look for vending machine businesses that are listed for sale. You can explore online marketplaces, business brokerage websites, classified ads, or even local business associations.
4. Evaluate the business: Once you find potential vending machine businesses for sale, look at them closely. Request financial records, including income statements and cash flow reports, to assess the business’s profitability. Evaluate the condition of the machines, their age, and any ongoing contracts with locations.
5. Do your due diligence: Conduct a comprehensive due diligence process. This involves checking the business’s legal status, any outstanding debts or liabilities, and verifying the seller’s claims about the business’s performance. You may want to involve a business attorney and an accountant to assist you in this process.
6. Negotiate the deal: If you’re satisfied with the business’s performance and potential, it’s time to negotiate the terms of the sale with the seller. Be prepared to discuss the purchase price, payment terms, and any other relevant details.
7. Get funding: Determine how you’ll finance the purchase. You might use personal savings, secure a business loan, or use a business credit card. See your personalized funding options based on your business’s details — only with Nav. 
8. Finalize the purchase: Once you agree on the terms, finalize the purchase through a written agreement or contract. It should detail all aspects of the transaction, including the transfer of assets, warranties, and any non-compete clauses.
9. Transfer ownership: Complete all necessary paperwork to transfer the ownership of the vending machine business legally. This may include registering the business under your name and obtaining any required licenses or permits.
10. Training and transition: Work with the seller to ensure a smooth transition. Understand how the machines operate, learn about existing supplier relationships, and familiarize yourself with the locations where the machines are placed.
11. Promote and expand: After taking over the business, focus on promoting it to attract more customers and identify opportunities for expansion. Consider adding new products, exploring new locations, or making upgrades to improve efficiency.

Remember that buying a vending machine business is a significant investment, so take your time to research, evaluate, and make an informed decision. Seek professional advice when needed to ensure a successful purchase and smooth transition into the vending machine business.

Are Credit Cards a Viable Option for Financing a Vending Machine Business?

Yes. You can use business credit cards to fund a vending machine business. Because the price of a single vending machine is relatively low, the credit limit on business credit cards can often cover the cost. You may even be able to get a credit card with a limit high enough to cover multiple machines at once. 

Your credit limit depends on factors like your personal credit score, however, so make sure to check yours before applying.

Best Business Credit Cards for Vending Machine Owners

Here are some of the best credit card options for your vending machine business. Work with Nav to get personalized card recommendations based on the details you enter securely about your business. The more information you provide, the better your recommendations. 

Can You Get a Small Business Loan to Buy a Vending Machine?

Business loans are another option when you’re looking to fund your vending machine business. Typically, business loans are used for larger purchases, but you may be able to qualify for a loan if you want to purchase multiple vending machines at one time.

Here’s a shortlist of items you’ll need before you apply:

• Your business’s details, like your business name, business address, an employer identification number or federal tax ID number, and formation documents
• A business bank account, along with bank statements proving revenue
• A business plan
• Business license

It is usually difficult for a brand-new business to get a traditional bank loan, but there are alternative lenders (see the list below) that require only six months to one year in business. 

Some lenders also look at your business credit. Learn how to establish business credit in this guide from Nav.

Can You Get a Loan to Start a Vending Machine Business? 

Here are some of the best small business loan options to use to launch or upgrade your vending machine business. 

Do I Need a Vending Machine Business Plan to Get Funding?

Yes, having a vending machine business plan is often essential if you’re seeking funding from investors, lenders, or financial institutions. A well-prepared business plan serves as a roadmap for your venture and demonstrates to potential investors that you have a clear vision and a solid understanding of how to make the business successful.

A business plan outlines your business model, target market, competitive analysis, and financial projections. It helps investors understand the viability of your vending machine business and its potential for profitability. It also shows financial projections, which provide insight into how you plan to use the funds, when the business is expected to become profitable, and the potential return on investment (ROI) for investors.

Additionally, your business plan should address potential risks and challenges to demonstrate that you have thoroughly analyzed the industry and are prepared to navigate uncertainties. This builds credibility and shows that you have thought through all aspects of the business, which can instill confidence in potential investors that you are a responsible and capable business owner.

Furthermore, even if you don’t need external funding, a business plan is beneficial as it serves as a roadmap for your business operations, guiding you through your goals and strategies.

What to Know Before Buying a Vending Machine

Before diving into your own vending machine business, there are a few things you need to understand. You’ll need to research local regulations to see how to remain compliant. You’re technically a vendor, so check with your local Chamber of Commerce to learn how your state regulates vendors. You’ll probably need to obtain a vending machine license — and one for each machine. This shouldn’t be a dealbreaker because they’re inexpensive and relatively easy to get, but it is one more to-do item on your list. You’ll want to make sure you have your machines licensed so you are operating legally. Additionally, your machine must follow ADA standards, so make sure the machines you buy are accessible to all.

Also, you’ll likely pay sales tax on everything you sell. The amount of sales tax you’ll owe will depend on your location, but it can eat into your profits. 

Finally, you’ll usually pay part of your commission to the person or company that owns the property or properties you choose for your vending machine location. The property owner wants to get something in return for allowing you to use their property, as well as cover any electricity costs that add up from your machine. Expect to pay 10% to 25% of your profits to the property owner.

Should I Purchase a New or Used Vending Machine for My Small Business?

Buying a vending machine is daunting. Whether or not you might choose a refurbished machine or a new machine depends largely on which stage your business is in. Used vending machines are a good place to start for new businesses. You’ll decrease your investment, and therefore your risk, because refurbished machines cost less. They may or may not require fixes before you use them, so be sure to inspect it carefully and ask for demonstrations from the vendor. 

Meanwhile, experienced vending machine business owners might choose a new machine if they have access to the capital. New vending machines are more expensive but will probably require less frequent maintenance.

Where Can I Find Vending Machines for Sale?

There are several places where you can find vending machines for sale, both new and used. Here are some options to consider:

Online vending machine retailers

Several websites specialize in selling vending machines. They offer a wide range of options, from snack and beverage machines to specialty machines for specific products. Some popular online retailers include:

• Vending.com
• eVending.com
• VendingWorld.com
• UsedVending.com

Vending machine manufacturers

Reach out to vending machine manufacturers directly, as many of them also sell machines to individual buyers. Some well-known vending machine manufacturers include:

• Seaga Manufacturing, Inc.
• Royal Vendors
• AMS Vending

Business auctions and liquidation sales

Keep an eye on local business auctions or liquidation sales, as vending machines may be available at discounted prices when companies close or upgrade their equipment.

Classified ads and marketplaces

Check online classified ads platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or eBay for individuals or businesses selling vending machines in your area.

Vending machine distributors

Look for vending machine distributors in your region. They often have a selection of machines available for purchase and can also provide guidance and support for your vending machine business.

Local suppliers and repair shops

Some local suppliers or repair shops that service vending machines may have used machines available for sale.

Networking with other vending machine operators

Connect with other vending machine operators in your area through industry events, trade shows, or online forums. They may know of opportunities to buy machines from businesses looking to exit the vending industry.

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Vending Machine

You might be brand new to buying something like a vending machine and aren’t really sure where to start. Here are the questions you’ll likely need to ask when starting a vending machine business:

1. What kind of machine do I need? Once you decide what you want to sell, that will help guide you toward the type of machine you need. Beverages need refrigeration, while snacks may not, for example. 
2. What’s my budget? Consider new vs. used, as well as whether you need a card reader. Think about whether or not you need a card reader (and its associated fees) for customer convenience. 
3. Where do I buy a vending machine? As always, the internet comes in handy. Search for manufacturers or wholesalers for new machines or for secondary market sellers (or even on Craigslist or eBay) for used machines.
4. Do I need to store it? Factor storage costs into your budget if necessary.
5. Where will I get my inventory? Make sure you have a plan for where and how you’ll get the products to restock your vending machines. 
6. Who will stock the machines? Figure out whether you’ll restock your machines yourself or you need to hire someone to take care of that work. Calculate any payroll into your budget.

Where to Find a Vending Machine Business for Sale

Sometimes it’s easier to buy a business that already exists. If you want to start a vending machine business and are looking for one to buy, there are a few places to check. First, you can look online on websites that sell businesses or business listings. There, you might find vending machine businesses that are up for sale.

You can also ask around in your local community — sometimes people put up signs or share information about businesses they want to sell. Learn more in our complete guide to buying an existing business.

How to Approach a Vending Machine Business Owner to Purchase

If you want to buy a vending machine business and talk to the owner, here’s a friendly way to do it:

• Be polite: Start by saying hello. You can say something like, “Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m interested in your vending machine business.”
• Ask questions: Ask questions about the business, like how it works. You can say, “I’m curious about your vending machines. Can you tell me more about how everything works?”
• Share your interest: Let them know why you’re interested. Maybe you love the idea of having your snacks in the machines or think it could be a fun business to run. 
• Ask if they’re open to selling: If the conversation is going well, you can ask if they’re open to selling the business. You can say, “I’m thinking about starting my vending machine business. Would you be open to selling yours?”
• Thank them: Whatever they say, thank them for their time and information. You can say, “Thank you for telling me more about your business. I appreciate it!”

Remember, it’s essential to be open and honest about your intentions when you’re approaching someone about their business.

Scouting Locations for Your Vending Machine

When figuring out potential locations for where to put your vending machine, look at foot traffic. High-traffic areas like airports or train stations are more likely to be successful than locations that don’t get as many people walking by. These locations may be more difficult to get into, but it could be worth trying.

You’ll also want to consider what you’re selling. If you’re selling bulk items like small toys, outside of grocery stores and convenience stores could be a good spot since children often accompany parents to these places. On the other hand, if you’re selling hot coffee, looking into office buildings and motels might be a good idea. Get creative with your location scouting and don’t be afraid to pitch your vending machine to the property owner.

Additionally, consider the safety of your location. Vandalism and theft are issues for vending machines since they are often left out in the open, so try to make sure the spot is well lit and in a populated area. You could even choose to place your machines inside of buildings that are locked at night if vandalism is a big concern.

Common (and Uncommon) Places to Put a Vending Machine

Vending machines can be placed in various locations where people frequent or need quick access to products. Here are some common and uncommon places to put a vending machine:

Some common places include:

• Office buildings
• Schools and universities
• Airports and transit stations
• Shopping malls
• Hospitals and medical facilities
• Fitness centers and gyms
• Recreation centers and parks
• Hotels and motels

On the other hand, here are some less common places to think about putting your vending machine:

• Restaurants (for employee use)
• Health food stores
• Banks
• Auto repair shops
• Co-working spaces
• Laundromats
• Manufacturing facilities
• Libraries
• Inside trains

When choosing a location for your vending machine, consider foot traffic, target audience, and the products you plan to sell. Get permission from the property owner or manager before placing your machine in any location. Additionally, ensure the area is safe and secure to protect your investment and provide a positive experience for customers.

Stocking and Replenishing Inventory

Keeping up with your inventory is essential for your business’s success, so come up with a plan to track it. Rather than personally driving around to each of your vending machines (which would take a lot of time), you can use inventory management software to stay on top of your restocking needs. Then you’ll know when you need to go back and replenish your inventory — and you’re never losing out on a potential sale. There are also specific vending management systems that are worth looking into since they specialize in vending machines.

You may want to hire employees to do the physical restocking for you, or you may be happy to do the work yourself (at least while it’s manageable). 

Legal Considerations When Considering a Vending Machine Business

Starting a vending machine business involves several legal considerations to maintain compliance with regulations, as well as to protect both the business owner and customers. Here are key legal aspects to consider:

Business registration and licensing

Before launching a vending machine business, it’s essential to register the business with the appropriate authorities. This includes getting the necessary licenses and permits to operate vending machines in specific locations. The requirements may vary based on the city, state, or country, so thorough research is crucial.

Contractual agreements

If you’re placing vending machines in locations owned by others (like businesses or public spaces), you’ll need to write up a legal agreement. These contracts outline the terms of the arrangement, including any revenue-sharing agreements and responsibilities of each party.

Compliance with ADA requirements

Vending machines must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and make them accessible for people with disabilities. This includes considerations such as accessible height, reach, and controls on the machines.

Tax obligations

Understand and pay taxes related to your vending machine business. This includes sales tax, income tax, and any other applicable taxes. Keep accurate financial records to stay compliant.

Insurance coverage

Consider getting insurance coverage to protect the business from potential risks, like theft, vandalism, or liability claims. Liability insurance can be particularly important in case of any accidents or injuries related to the vending machines.

Data protection and privacy

If your vending machines collect customer data through cashless payment systems or loyalty programs, make sure you have proper data protection. Implement secure practices to protect customer information and stay informed about relevant regulations.

Tax and Compliance Considerations

There are a few things that are important to plan for before starting your own small business. Keep in mind: Even if you only run one vending machine, you’re legally a small business and must file business taxes if you make over $400 per year.

Business structure and formation

First, you’ll need to think about what business entity you want to run as. If you want to protect yourself from personal liability as a vending machine owner, it’s best to not operate as a sole proprietorship. Becoming a limited liability company (LLC) gives better liability protection and more options for how you’re taxed than a sole proprietorship. You can also consider becoming an S-corp or a C-corp. 

Setting up an LLC is much easier when you use a business formation service. These services know the laws based on where you’re located and make sure you’re compliant — without you having to do all the research yourself. Use Nav to find the best business formation service for your business quickly and efficiently. 

Tax and accounting software

You’ll probably have to pay sales tax on what you sell out of your vending machines, unless you’re stationed in one of the five states that doesn’t charge sales tax. The percentage of tax you pay depends on the sales tax rate in the state. Turning to a professional to file your business taxes can help you stay compliant with all local, state, and federal laws, as well as get you the highest possible return. 

Additionally, having an organized accounting system from when you form your business is ideal (although it’s not too late to organize it if you’re already up and running). Bookkeeping and accounting on a spreadsheet for all of your vending machine sales can quickly get out of hand. Instead, use accounting software to keep everything in one place and to be able to pull financial statements quickly that tell you how your machines are performing.

POS Systems: How to Accept Payments

You have several choices in how you accept payments: coins only, cash and coins, and credit cards. Accepting cash means you’ll have to keep your machine stocked with change. 

Allowing credit card payments is a great way to boost your sales since most customers expect to be able to pay for items with a card. Machines with card readers cost more up-front, but it may be worth it to increase sales. You will have to sign a contract with a payment gateway and pay various fees to the payment gateway provider, so do your research before choosing one to make sure you’re paying a fair amount. 

How to Optimize Profits

The location of your vending machines and the items you’re selling are the biggest indicators of how well your products will sell. If there is a lot of foot traffic — and it’s the right kind of foot traffic — you’re likely to make money. Think about who the regular clientele is in the area and make sure it matches up to what you’re selling, like to-go snacks in dormitories and coconut water in a gym. 

Additionally, make sure you negotiate a fair rate with the property owner so you aren’t giving up too much to place the machine in that location. If the property owner isn’t willing to work with you, it may be worth looking elsewhere. Ensuring you aren’t overpaying for your payment gateway (if you have one) is another way to maximize your take-away income. 

Protect Vending Machines With Business Insurance

Owning a business is inherently risky, and a vending machine business is no different. Business insurance can provide you with protection and peace of mind so you can get back to operating your business. Having insurance covers you if one of your vending machines is vandalized or there is a liability claim against your business. Nav partners with Mylo to provide personalized business insurance tailored to your unique business’s needs. 

Nav’s Verdict

The vending machine industry is great for new or first-time business owners, because the overhead and startup costs are smaller than many other businesses and each machine shouldn’t require daily attention. Opening a vending machine could provide passive income on the side — or become a full-time business. Whether you use business funding or open it with your savings, a vending machine business could be a great path to making more income. 

FAQs

• Is the vending machine business still viable in 2023?

  Yes. Vending machines are a profitable business idea that can provide passive income or become a full-time gig. You can have one machine or 100+ machines — how much you scale is completely up to you. A single vending machine alone will not make you a ton of money (the average is between $5 and $100 per week), but if you don’t have much time or you want to add multiple machines, it could be worth it.

• How to handle vandalism to a vending machine?

  The first consideration for vandalism is to choose the right location. Picking a spot that has a lower crime rate and is in a well-lit or populated area is a good defense against vandalism. However, nothing is foolproof, so your best bet is to get business insurance in case vandalism does happen.

• Is a vending machine business considered passive income?

  Yes. Operating a vending machine does require work, but it is considered passive income, because you won’t have to work on it full time. How often you have to restock inventory depends on the location and what you’re selling, but you’ll probably have to restock between once a week and once a month.

• What credit score do I need to get a business credit card for a vending machine business?

  Business credit card providers usually want your personal credit score to be above 600, and sometimes higher. It depends on the credit card, but they are typically looking for a good to excellent credit score. Credit card companies don’t usually look at your business credit score when determining whether you qualify for the card. If you need to build up your personal credit score, you can do so by making on-time payments and lowering your debt. Over time, this can help improve your credit.

• How much does a vending machine cost, on average?

  The cost of a vending machine can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the type of machine, its size, features, brand, and condition (new or used). Snack and candy machines can cost anywhere from $500 for a used model to $6,000 for a new model. Specialized machines can cost $15,000 or more.

• Can you buy a vending machine and put it anywhere?

  You can’t put your vending machine anywhere you would like. You usually have to negotiate a contract with the land or property owner stating that you’ll pay them part of the profit before you can place a vending machine. There are some locations, like office buildings, that may negotiate a contract with you without charging you to house the machine.

• Do vending machines make good money?

  Vending machines can be profitable and quite hands-off, but it often requires having a lot of machines to make a significant amount of money. You’ll probably need to have a full-time vending machine business to make enough money to live off of, but it can also be an excellent source of side income.