{"id":38393,"date":"2023-11-07T16:49:41","date_gmt":"2023-11-07T16:49:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/?post_type=start-a-business&#038;p=38393"},"modified":"2025-02-05T16:09:55","modified_gmt":"2025-02-05T16:09:55","slug":"vending-machine-business","status":"publish","type":"start-a-business","link":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/start-a-business\/vending-machine-business\/","title":{"rendered":"Vending machine business"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"38393\" class=\"elementor elementor-38393\" data-elementor-post-type=\"start-a-business\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-3b3fcd2d elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"3b3fcd2d\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-settings=\"{&quot;background_background&quot;:&quot;classic&quot;}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-78c7fa95\" data-id=\"78c7fa95\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-334b485 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"334b485\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines are the stores that never close. Open 24\/7 for the sale of food, drinks, candy, toys, and more, they\u2019re a fast and convenient way to buy the things we need. They\u2019re also profitable, low maintenance and suitable for investors seeking passive income or a part-time or full-time business venture.<\/span><\/p><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">But if you\u2019re new to the world of vending machines, how do you start your own vending machine business? What kind of equipment do you need, what do you sell, where do you sell, and what does it all cost? Read on to discover all you need to know about starting your vending machine business and where to get the funds to get it off the ground.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6dda3f4d elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"6dda3f4d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-md\" href=\"https:\/\/southafrica.swoopfunding.com\/stage\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Get a quote<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-67e369c2 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"67e369c2\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-1d6348ef\" data-id=\"1d6348ef\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bf98ab7 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"bf98ab7\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What is a vending machine business?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2353b4b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2353b4b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines are standalone cash or card-operated devices that sell a wide range of products to consumers. A vending machine business is an organisation that manages one or more of these machines \u2013 usually as the equipment owner, but sometimes as a franchisee.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines can be found in many different locations, from airports and strip malls to colleges and theme parks. Dispensing candy, sodas, snacks, healthy foods, tech equipment, beauty products and more, these machines can provide a low-cost entry point to a lucrative business opportunity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machine operators are responsible for purchasing or renting the machines, finding the best locations to place the devices, keeping them stocked with fast-selling products and collecting the cash they generate. Depending on the number of machines you run, a vending machine business can be operated as a part-time or full-time operation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p style=\"text-align: left;\"><b>Best-selling vending machine products in 2022:<\/b><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sodas and cold drinks \u2013 they make up almost 40% of all South African vending sales<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Snacks and candy \u2013 the Snickers bar is the number one treat sold by vending machine<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hot drinks and specialty beverages \u2013 the drinks sector is rapidly expanding beyond the soda can<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fresh foods, sandwiches and fruits \u2013 health-conscious consumers are driving new demand<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400; text-align: left;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tech and gadgets \u2013 hugely popular in airports, train stations and bus stations<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-12a3a37d elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"12a3a37d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Are vending machine businesses profitable?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7b3bb6e8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7b3bb6e8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, they are. After buying the equipment, the typical vending machine will deliver a 20% to 25% net profit margin and generate <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/vendingsolutions.co.za\/invest-in-vending\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">R2000 to R4000 profit per month<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> depending on location and the type of products it sells. If that doesn\u2019t sound like much, multiply by x 10 machines and you could be collecting R20,000 to R40,000 net profit per month, or R240,000 to R480,000 per year. Additionally, keep in mind that you may not need an office or even a storage space for inventory to run a vending machine business, and if you\u2019re prepared to keep your machines full of products and collect the cash yourself, you will also have zero employee costs eating into income.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>What are the costs for a vending machine business?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Costs to operate a vending machine business fall into two categories:<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><h4><b>Capital costs<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is the cost of the machine and any financing charges you may incur if you buy the equipment with a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/business-loans\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">loan<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Even old vending machines can have good re-sale values, so this cost is classed as an investment, and the machine is a depreciating business asset.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><h4><b>Operating costs<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is what it costs to keep the machine working and selling products. Operating costs include:<\/span><\/p><p><b>Rent to the location owner<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 for example, a convenience store. This may be a flat fee per month, or a share of your sales.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Electricity costs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> if your machine is not purely mechanical \u2013 some location owners may bundle this into the rent.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Stock<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 this is wholesale price of the products you sell and any shipping charges and taxes you may need to pay.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Servicing <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 if you\u2019re not good at mechanics, you will probably need to pay a service agent or repairman from time to time to keep your equipment operating at 100%.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Insurance <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 you\u2019ll need <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">equipment insurance<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to protect against theft, vandalism and other unpredictable events. You will also need public liability cover to protect you from lawsuits that customers may bring if they claim your machine or the products it sells has harmed them or their property.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Upgrades <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 the way we buy things is changing rapidly. Older, cash-only vending machines are being phased out by devices that take payment from cards and smartphones. Even coins and dollar bills are periodically updated. Depending on the age of the equipment you buy, you may need to upgrade your machines to accept new ways for customers to pay.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Permits and licenses <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 some cities may require you to buy a permit or license to operate each machine.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Taxes <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 you may have to collect and pay city taxes on your sales. This cost will vary according to the location of your machines.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Management costs <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 this is things like the gasoline and other travel costs you incur to keep your machines stocked and collect the cash they make, plus control costs, such as vending machine software to maintain your inventory.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d869bae elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"d869bae\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/southafrica.swoopfunding.com\/stage\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Apply now<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3a32811 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3a32811\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What are the types of vending machine businesses?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bdcfce8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"bdcfce8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If it will fit in the machine and you can find a market for it, vending machines can sell almost anything. The four main types of vending machine business sectors are:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food and drinks\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bulk vending<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Specialty vending<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Franchised vending<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is important to do your research before opting for a specific sector and buying a machine. Different products may require utilities and features such as electricity, water, refrigeration or Wi-Fi to operate successfully. Also check out what is selling in the area where you intend to place the equipment \u2013 for example, an office block or hospital is a good spot for hot drinks, snacks and sandwiches \u2013 and take the time to discover what the foot traffic is like \u2013 the best machine locations sell to people all day long, not just during lunchtime or rush hour.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you\u2019ve spotted some likely machine locations and judged the foot traffic, it\u2019s best to select one product sector and stick to it. That way you can restrict the types of machines you need and you\u2019ll learn more about your customers, the sales cycle, what products are top sellers, etc. Only when you\u2019ve established your business should you think about expanding \u2013 for example placing a soda machine next to your snacks machine to satisfy both food and drinks customers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Snacks, food, and beverage vending<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With soda and cold drinks alone making up almost <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">40%<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of vending machine sales, the snacks, food and beverage vending sector is by far the biggest in South Africa. For entrepreneurs looking to enter the vending machine industry, sticking with these tried and trusted products can reduce your business risk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, it\u2019s not all about the soda can. You can buy machines that offer drinks, snacks, or a combination of both, (the top five selling vending machine items in 2023 are candy bars, chocolate bars, chips, pretzels and gum), but even here there\u2019s room for innovation. You could move away from selling pop, candy bars and chips to provide different forms of drinks, treats and snacks. Modern consumers are increasingly buying flavoured waters, cold caffeine-based drinks and variations of milk, high-energy, and diet-based options. You could also consider a product line that targets health-conscious consumers, offering products as varied as fresh fruit, granola bars, salads, yoghourts and vegetarian wraps.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most importantly you should target your food and drinks range to the locations where you operate. For instance, a <a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/start-a-business\/gym\/\">gym<\/a> may be a great place to sell energy bars and electrolytes drinks, but in a business park you may do better selling coffee, sandwiches and proven, lunchtime favourites.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Bulk vending<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines that sell bubblegum, toys, balls and kids\u2019 stickers are known as bulk vending. These machines are typically low-maintenance, all-mechanical devices, selling their products for modest prices usually paid in cash. With long-life products and no need for electricity or batteries, bulk vending machines are ideal for business owners seeking an opportunity that requires minimal time or cash investment and that generates good, passive income. Used bulk vending equipment can be purchased for as low as R50 per unit and if placed in the right location \u2013 such as near a school or in an amusement park &#8211; and selling the right product, they can drive income of up to R30 per month.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><b>Top tip:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Used bulk vending machines can often be old and worn, so check them over thoroughly before purchasing and factor in a budget for repair or upgrade costs.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Specialty vending<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everybody has to eat and drink, but specialty vending machines can cater to many other markets. Depending on your machine location, you could consider selling products as varied as:<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><h4><b>Retail<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tech gadgets and accessories, such as cables, chargers and ear plugs are big sellers in airports, bus and train stations, as are machines that dispense books, magazines and newspapers. Some shopping malls and department stores also provide machines that sell high-end products, such as beauty products, sunglasses and jewellery, whilst arenas and stadiums are good spots for machines selling fan gear, souvenirs, seat cushions, ponchos and rainwear.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><h4><b>Laundry products<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Laundromats, apartment blocks, dorms, motels and <a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/sectors\/hotel-funding\/\">hotels<\/a> are ideal locations for selling detergents, dyes, dryer sheets and other laundry essentials. You could also expand this basic range by providing emergency sewing kits, dyes and packs of buttons.\u00a0<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><h4><b>Hot drinks<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coffee on the go is a huge industry in South Africa and it\u2019s not only coffee shops getting in on the action. Sophisticated coffee vending machines, often selling a range of products from filter to cappuccino, plus teas and hot chocolate, are taking a growing share of revenues. Top locations for these type of machines are office blocks and business parks, but hospitals, bus stations, the DMV and car washes are also strong contenders.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><h4><b>What\u2019s the difference between a vending machine and an automated retail machine?<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Automated retail machines are new entrants to the vending machine market. Often located in up-scale locations and delivering a luxury sales experience, they are changing the way we buy products without human intervention. But how are they different from the humble vending machine?<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines have remained largely unchanged for decades and they sell many types of product with pure focus on the sale. ARMs are state-of-the-art devices that usually showcase a range of products from one manufacturer, aiming to generate brand awareness as much as sales.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The typical vending machine sale is less than R10. A typical ARM sale is R20 &#8211; R200.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines rely on electronics and old-school mechanicals. ARMs work using robotics, electronics and more often, intuitive AI.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It\u2019s common for vending machines to jam when dispensing products or lose the customer\u2019s money. ARMs use laser guided systems to dispense products and card or smartphone technology for payments. ARMs almost never jam or lose the customer\u2019s money.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3><b>Franchise opportunities<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Buying into a vending machine franchise can give you entry to an established network, corporate backing for products, extensive training, and services and support to secure suitable machine locations. It can also give you options on how many machines you wish to operate and sometimes, financing to buy or lease them. However, keep in mind that as well as the upfront joining fee, franchisors will often dictate what you can and cannot sell, may restrict where you buy your inventory and will take a share of your <a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/business-glossary\/profit\/\">profits<\/a> in exchange for your license.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Vending machine business ideas<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As vending machines and consumer tastes evolve, there is scope to provide many different products and services. Some machine vendors are already thinking outside the vending box with ideas such as these:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Burgers, pizza and fries \u2013 fast food without the <a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/sectors\/food-trucks\/\">food truck<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/sectors\/restaurant-loans\/\">restaurant<\/a><\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pet foods, snacks, toys and medicines<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hams and cured meats \u2013 everything from bacon to salami and steaks<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sushi \u2013 popular in Japan for ages, now expanding across South Africa<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hair products \u2013 everything to keep male and female hair looking great<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fresh vegetables \u2013 brings the produce aisle to your street corner<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nutrients and proteins \u2013 muscling in on the fitness sector to keep athletes in top form<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fresh flowers \u2013 no more shopping at the <a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/sectors\/petrol-station-finance\/\">gas station<\/a> on Mothers\u2019 Day<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-55b9509 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"55b9509\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/southafrica.swoopfunding.com\/stage\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Apply now<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-674a3245 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"674a3245\" data-element_type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-4ce089dc\" data-id=\"4ce089dc\" data-element_type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3cbc3a0 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"3cbc3a0\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2732a05 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"2732a05\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">How much do vending machines cost?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-10cdfcf elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"10cdfcf\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depending on the type of machine you buy, and if it is new or used, vending machines can cost from R50 for a used and basic gumball dispenser all the way up to R15,000 for an all bells and whistles brand new automated retail machine. Most experts suggest buying used machines to start with, typically spending R1,200 to R3,000 depending on device sophistication. On top of this you will have to pay rent for your location, buy stock and pay for services such as insurance, repairs and maintenance. With a low-cost location and a machine with few sophisticated features and selling simple products such as candy, sodas and snacks, it may be possible to get a vending machine business up and running for as little as R2,000.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Can you get a small business loan to buy a vending machine?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/business-loans\/small-business-loans\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Small business loans<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/business-loans\/asset-finance\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">asset financing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">equipment loans<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can all be used to buy one or more vending machines. You may also be able to <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">lease<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the machines with an option to buy at the end of the contract. Purchase your vending machines over 1,2, 3 or more years.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Can you get a loan to start a vending machine business?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. As well as covering the cost of your vending machines, a <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">small business loan<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">start-up loan<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/business-loans\/franchise-finance\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">franchise financing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">business acquisition loan<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can get your new vending machine business truly off the ground. Use the funds to pay location costs and cover inventory, licenses and permits, repairs and upgrades, marketing and more.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Is a vending machine business plan to essential get funding?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not always. However, having a comprehensive business plan will certainly improve your chances of success and speed up the loan process. Most lenders will ask to see financial records if your business is already trading, as well as a list of personal assets and any existing debts you may have. Your credit report and score will also factor into the decision making, so be sure to check this information before you apply to ensure it is up to date and accurate.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-bc5c737 e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"bc5c737\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-daad523 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"daad523\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Things to consider when buying vending machines<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d5f7e16 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d5f7e16\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Type of machine &#8211; <\/b>Different products require different types of vending machines \u2013 for example, a hot drinks machine will need power, water and waste connections. Some machines may also need wi-fi to make payments with cards or phones. Choose the right machine to sell your product range without paying for expensive features you may never use.<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Location &#8211; <\/b>This is as important as the type of machine you buy. Find a location that will suit your product range \u2013 for example, an airport to sell tech gadgets \u2013 and measure the space your machine will occupy and what connections it may need \u2013 such as electricity. If you can only secure space for a countertop machine, there\u2019s no point in buying a free-standing unit. Always remember: Location first, machine type second.<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Costs &#8211; <\/b>If you\u2019re starting out, you should keep to a strict budget. Used and refurbished machines may be the more cost-effective way to go, even if they need some cleaning up and repairs.<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Easy to use &#8211; <\/b>Vending machines that are effortless to use will generate more sales than complicated devices that take an age to understand. Keep it simple, so even kids can use your machine.<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Safety &#8211; <\/b>Injuries caused by vending machines are quite rare, but if they happen, they can result in large compensation claims that may not be covered by your insurance. Make sure your machines have no obvious safety hazards and that they can be secured to the wall, floor or countertop to prevent them toppling over.<\/li><\/ul><p><b style=\"text-align: var(--text-align); color: #003e52; font-size: var( --e-global-typography-066e5ea-font-size ); letter-spacing: var( --e-global-typography-066e5ea-letter-spacing ); word-spacing: var( --e-global-typography-066e5ea-word-spacing );\">Should I buy new or used vending machines?<\/b><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It depends on your budget. Experts recommend starting out with used machines to keep capital costs down, then upgrading to newer machines as your business grows.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>The best questions to ask before buying a vending machine<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some questions apply to new and used vending machines:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Is this machine credit card compatible?\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Does the Bill Acceptor take 1s, 5s, 10s?\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What is the capacity of the machine \u2013 for example, how many drinks\/snacks will it carry?\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What utilities does it require \u2013 power, water, waste, wi-fi?<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What special features does the machine have?<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How long is the guarantee \u2013 and does it include labor and parts?<\/span><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And some questions are for used vending machines only:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Why are you selling the machine?\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How old is the machine?\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have there been any repairs to the machine?<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do you have the manual for the machine?\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7820d03 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"7820d03\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/southafrica.swoopfunding.com\/stage\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Apply now<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-36c9cf3 elementor-widget elementor-widget-spacer\" data-id=\"36c9cf3\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"spacer.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-spacer-inner\"><\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b2d63fd elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"b2d63fd\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What are the pros and cons of starting a vending machine business?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b0632af elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"b0632af\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Starting a vending machine business can be exciting due to its relatively low startup costs and potential for passive income. However, like any business, it comes with its own set of pros and cons.<\/p><p>Some of the pros are:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Low startup costs<\/strong>: Initial investment is generally lower compared to other businesses, especially if you start with a few machines.<\/li><li><strong>Flexibility<\/strong>: The business offers flexibility in terms of hours and operations, as machines can operate 24\/7 without constant supervision.<\/li><li><strong>Scalability<\/strong>: It is easy to scale the business by adding more machines in different locations.<\/li><li><strong>Low overhead<\/strong>: Operating costs are relatively low, with expenses primarily involving restocking, maintenance, and occasional repairs.<\/li><li><strong>Passive income<\/strong>: Once machines are placed and stocked, they generate revenue with minimal active management.<\/li><\/ul><p>However, starting a vending machine business also have its cons:<\/p><ul><li><strong>Location dependent<\/strong>: Success heavily depends on securing high-traffic locations, which can be competitive and sometimes costly.<\/li><li><strong>Maintenance<\/strong>: Machines require regular maintenance and restocking, which can be time-consuming and may require technical knowledge.<\/li><li><strong>Limited product range<\/strong>: The type and variety of products that can be offered are restricted by the machine&#8217;s capacity and design.<\/li><li><strong>Economic sensitivity<\/strong>: Sales can be affected by economic downturns and changes in consumer spending habits, impacting profitability.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-945649d elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"945649d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Where to find vending machines for sale:<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-0f826e9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"0f826e9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re going to launch a vending machine business, you\u2019re going to need a machine or two. Luckily, there are many ways to find vending machines for sale:<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Online retailers<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consumer platforms like Ebay, Craigslist, even Amazon, have thousands of vending machines for sale. These sites may be the best place for first-time buyers to select their machine, as it will give you the broadest equipment selection and the widest range of prices. Remember that vending machines are often large and heavy, so keep your search local to minimise the shipping or pick-up costs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Classified ads<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some of the vending machine industry publications<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0carry small ads with machines and accessories for sale. These ads tend to be from operators and machine dealers, so the machines they sell may be a little more expensive than you\u2019ll find on Ebay, but they may come with a warranty and the seller may be more helpful and provide more detail about the machines than your typical online vendor.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Auctions &amp; liquidations<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The same publications listed above, plus your own online search will reveal upcoming auctions and liquidations of vending businesses and equipment. Although you can sometimes snap up a bargain here, keep in mind that you will be bidding against seasoned pros who know what the machines are worth. Additionally, auction sites sell under a \u2018buyer beware\u2019 disclaimer, meaning it\u2019s up to you to check the machines before buying. You can\u2019t claim for problems you discover after purchase unless the auction listing was deliberately misleading. Don\u2019t forget to factor in added auction fees and taxes.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Social media and word of mouth<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Social media, message boards and even business sites like Linked In can be useful places to dig up machines for sale that are not listed elsewhere. If you can, place your own ad stating what you need, or simply put out a request to your network.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Local suppliers<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most towns and cities will have local suppliers to the vending machine industry. Typically, they will sell machines, accessories, parts and supplies. Your equipment options may be more limited here, but you will usually have the chance to check the machines out in person and discover their history. Some local suppliers also work as agents for the big distributors, so they may be able to recommend machines to fit your specific needs.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Repair shops<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines break down like every other device. When they do, they usually need a specialist to fix what\u2019s gone wrong. As above, most towns and cities will have at least one vending machine repair shop and they\u2019re a good place to learn more about the types of machines you need and get the skinny on machines they know are for sale, or operators and dealers you should talk to.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Top tip:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Check out the vending machines selling near you. Often, they will have a sticker on the side that reveals the name and number of the service agent or repair shop that takes care of the device. Failing that there will usually be a sticker or plate that provides the details of the machine operator. You may be able to call them and ask where the best used or new machines can be purchased in your local area.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Vending machine distributers<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These are the major suppliers of new and used machines. They will have the widest selection of vending machines for sale, the newest technology, and the most end-to-end services for delivery, repairs, and training. However, this is also the most expensive option, and equipment purchased through vending franchises might require a minimum order of multiple machines and\/or other fees that go toward machine servicing and entrepreneur development programs.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-3314eaa elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"3314eaa\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Pros and cons of owning a vending business<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-559f27b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"559f27b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019ve got the determination, a vehicle and a few thousand dollars, you\u2019re all set to start your own vending business. But before you jump in, what are advantages and disadvantages of this sort of venture?<\/span><\/p><p><b>Advantages:<\/b><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Cheap to run<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machine businesses have few overheads apart from paying location rent. You usually don\u2019t need an office or a warehouse. Also, if you\u2019re stocking the machine and collecting the cash yourself, you have no need for employees, which means no payroll or benefits expenses.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Many product choices<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machines can sell almost anything that fits inside the box. You can operate multiple machines selling different types of product. This gives you a buffer against changing consumer tastes as well as the opportunity to quickly pivot to new products if they suddenly start to trend.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Easy to scale<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You don\u2019t have to go \u2018all-in\u2019 at the start. You can launch with just one machine and then add more as your sales grow and you gain market experience.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Disadvantages:<\/b><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Theft and vandalism<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many vending machines are vulnerable to attack by street thieves and mischief makers. Theft and vandalism are common events. Always insure your machines against these types of crime and of you can, place them in locations where they are secure or under 24\/7 surveillance.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Time commitment<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll need to commit time to selecting your machines, securing locations, replenishing the products and gathering the cash you earn. The more machines you have, the more time this will take.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1678131 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"1678131\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">What is the best way to fund a vending machine business?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5db1afe elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"5db1afe\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unless you\u2019re buying a used gumball machine, you can expect to pay R1,200 to R3,000 for your first machine and then pay for location costs and inventory. If you don\u2019t have the cash to do this, you can fund your vending machine business by other means:<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Equipment loans<\/b><b> and <\/b><b>leasing<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Loans to buy or lease vending machines can cover the major equipment cost and sometimes pay for servicing. Loans usually pay back over 1 to 3 years. Lease finance contracts may give you the option to buy the equipment for as little as R1 at the end of the contract.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Small business loans<\/b><b> and <\/b><b>start-up loans<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finance to cover equipment costs, location fees, inventory, servicing, marketing and more.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Franchising<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gives you the support of a bigger franchise partner and may provide a protected territory to operate in. Franchising usually requires a large payment upfront (the joining fee) and then you pay a flat fee or a share of turnover on a weekly or monthly basis after that. Franchise financing can help to cover the joining fee and other start-up costs.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bring in an investor\/partner<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you don\u2019t have a friend, relative or colleague who can join you in the venture you can find investors looking for investment opportunities on various <\/span><b>angel investor<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> websites. Always do your <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">due diligence<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> on any investor or partner that you do not know personally, and never pay for introductions or the chance to pitch your proposal.<\/span><b><\/b><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Crowd funding<\/b><\/li><\/ul><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Online sites can connect you and your business proposal to hundreds or even thousands of private donors who may provide small amounts of cash to help you succeed. You will need a compelling story to make this option work, but if it does, you do not have to repay the cash as long as you spend it where you said you would. It\u2019s basically free money.<\/span><\/p><p><b>Top tip:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Always check the small print on any loan note or contract. Ideally, run it by a lawyer before you sign on the dotted line.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How to take over an existing vending machine business<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you don\u2019t want to start a new vending machine business, you could <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">buy an existing operation<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This would provide you with an instant network and save you from sourcing machines and negotiating locations. Simply follow these steps to buy an existing vending machine business:<\/span><\/p><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Research the market<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 learn about the demand for vending machines in your target area. What products are popular, where are the machines sited, what kind of equipment is being used?<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Set a budget<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 not just for the initial purchase, but to cover stock, servicing and location costs.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Find a business for sale<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 online sites and vending machine publications are a good place to find a vending machine business that matches your needs.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Do your due diligence<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 ask the seller about the business, scrutinise their records, search for any pending lawsuits, check permits and taxes are up to date.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Agree a price<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 don\u2019t pay more than you are comfortable with, there will always be other opportunities.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Get funding<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 if you need finance, search for the best business acquisition loans. Compare rates, terms and conditions before signing.\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Close the deal<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 finalise the purchase, exchange contracts, transfer ownership. This may require you to transfer permits and licenses and record the business in your name with local authorities.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Transition <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 work with the seller during the agreed transition period. Learn about the machines, the local market, your location owners etc.\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Scale the business <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 depending on the size and type of vending machine business you buy you may be able to expand the operation with more machines and different products.\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-dc9d4d2 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"dc9d4d2\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/southafrica.swoopfunding.com\/stage\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Apply now<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f8b4af1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"f8b4af1\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Where should I put my vending machine business?<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-4ac8d43 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"4ac8d43\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Location, location, location. After the machine itself, the location where you put it is most important to budding vending machine business owners. Placing your machines in locations where your products are in demand is vital.\u00a0 You want a consumer audience that buys from your machine all day long, ideally with the equipment secure from theft or vandalism.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>Common locations:<\/b><\/h3><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Airports<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 great for selling tech, gadgets, chargers, cables and ear plugs<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Amusement Parks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 ideal for selling candy, toys, gum, drinks and snacks<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Apartment blocks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 best for laundry products, popular household items, drinks and milk<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Business offices and parks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 drinks, snacks, sandwiches and lunchtime favorites<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bus stations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 perfect for magazines, newspapers, drinks and snacks<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bookstores<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 coffee, snacks, gadgets, fresh fruit and healthy foods<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Factory break rooms<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 coffee, drinks, snacks, sandwiches<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Fire stations<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 drinks, snacks, energy bars and beverages<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gas stations <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u2013 cigarettes, drinks, snacks, candy, gum, kids toys and books<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gyms<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 electrolyte drinks, protein bars, energy and diet supplements<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hospitals<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u2013 coffee, drinks, snacks, magazines and newspapers<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3><b>Uncommon locations<\/b><b><\/b><\/h3><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>24-hour pharmacies \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">ideal for selling<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">healthy snacks, energy drinks, vitamins<\/span><\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Banks \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">best for<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drinks and snacks<\/span><\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hair salons \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">coffee, snacks, magazines, newspapers<\/span><\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Health food stores \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">for<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">vitamins, diet products and supplements<\/span><\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hotels \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drinks, snacks, hygiene products, magazines, newspapers<\/span><\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Museums \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">guide books, drinks, snacks, batteries, postcards and souvenirs<\/span><\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nursing homes \u2013 <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">drinks, snacks, sandwiches, fresh fruit<\/span><\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-77de733 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"77de733\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Common vending machine FAQs<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f95c490 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f95c490\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Got a question about starting or running your vending machine business?<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How to secure stock and replenish inventory<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smaller vending machine operators usually buy their stock at large consumer outlets, while larger vending machine businesses may strike deals with major wholesalers, distributors or even manufacturers like Coca Cola or PepsiCo.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How do I ensure tax compliance?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most vending machine operators are required to charge and collect <a href=\"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/business-glossary\/sales-tax\/\">sales tax<\/a> on the products they sell. There may also be city sales tax to pay. You will need to contact and register your business with these authorities before you begin trading.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><h4><b>What tax and accounting software would be useful?<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As well as keeping track of your income, expenses and taxes with a suitable accounting software<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you may find specialist vending machine management software (VMMS) useful to help you manage inventory, location fees, service schedules and more \u2013 especially if you have more than one or two machines.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How should I structure my business?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>limited liability company<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or LLC is usually the best option for a vending machine business. It is informal, flexible, scalable and provides sufficient legal and tax protection for the owner, partners and employees.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How should I take payments<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The way we buy things is changing. More purchases are now made with cards and smartphones. This is not only convenient for the consumer it also saves the vending machine operator from collecting and banking bulky cash. However, you will still need to sell to people who only use coins and notes. Therefore, if you can, buy a machine that will take all forms of payment.<\/span><\/p><h3><b>How do I optimise my profit?<\/b><\/h3><ul><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choose the most profitable vending machine locations.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Offer products that have high demand and generate high revenues.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set prices for maximum profit margins.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a variety of marketing techniques to attract more customers.<\/span><\/li><li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Minimise machine downtimes \u2013 keep them serviced and well stocked.<\/span><\/li><\/ul><h3><b>What insurance can I use to protect my vending machines?<\/b><\/h3><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll need equipment insurance to protect against fire, theft, flood and vandalism, as well as public liability cover to protect you from third-party claims for personal injury or property damage caused by your machines or the products they sell.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-be64ab0 elementor-widget elementor-widget-heading\" data-id=\"be64ab0\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"heading.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"elementor-heading-title elementor-size-default\">Get started with Swoop's business funding platform<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-71b77e22 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"71b77e22\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vending machine businesses can be lucrative and provide long-term revenue streams, but to get them off the ground or expand your current operation you will probably need financing to succeed. Don\u2019t waste time or miss out on profitable opportunities. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/southafrica.swoopfunding.com\/stage\/?http_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fswoopfunding.com%2F&amp;last_page_visited=https%3A%2F%2Fswoopfunding.com%2Fus%2Fstart-a-business%2F&amp;deviceId=q0sB7UWN3c0koGZ5jHMXR2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Register with Swoop<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> today to compare top-quality vending machine <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">business loans<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, leases and <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">business acquisition<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> finance and to discuss all your business needs.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-39dc8861 elementor-align-center elementor-widget elementor-widget-button\" data-id=\"39dc8861\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"button.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-button-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"elementor-button elementor-button-link elementor-size-sm\" href=\"https:\/\/southafrica.swoopfunding.com\/stage\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-content-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"elementor-button-text\">Apply now<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"author":26,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"template":"","start-a-business-sectors":[369],"class_list":["post-38393","start-a-business","type-start-a-business","status-publish","hentry","start-a-business-sectors-business-ideas"],"acf":[],"featured_image_urls_v2":{"full":"","thumbnail":"","medium":"","medium_large":"","large":"","1536x1536":"","2048x2048":"","image_blog":"","image_blog_full":"","image_podcast":"","image_banking":"","image_blog_internal":"","image_blog_medium":"","image_single_banking":""},"post_excerpt_stackable_v2":"<p>Vending machines are the stores that never close. Open 24\/7 for the sale of food, drinks, candy, toys, and more, they\u2019re a fast and convenient way to buy the things we need. They\u2019re also profitable, low maintenance and suitable for investors seeking passive income or a part-time or full-time business venture.But if you\u2019re new to the world of vending machines, how do you start your own vending machine business? What kind of equipment do you need, what do you sell, where do you sell, and what does it all cost? Read on to discover all you need to know about&hellip;<\/p>\n","category_list_v2":"","author_info_v2":{"name":"Chris Godfrey","url":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/author\/chris-godfrey\/"},"comments_num_v2":"0 comments","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/start-a-business\/38393","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/start-a-business"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/start-a-business"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/26"}],"version-history":[{"count":31,"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/start-a-business\/38393\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43336,"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/start-a-business\/38393\/revisions\/43336"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=38393"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"start-a-business-sectors","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/swoopfunding.com\/za\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/start-a-business-sectors?post=38393"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}