5 replies to this topic

[stpater]

I am new to the vending business and looking to buy and place 200 machines, single barrel, 1" gumball machines. I live in Orange County, CA and we have a population of approximately 3 million people. There are many high foot traffic areas with thousand of people going through each day. I was told from a colleague of mine who used to be in the business 15 years ago that he would make anywhere from $5-$80 a machine per month. $80 were obviously his home runs. He would move a machine after 2 months if it was only making $5 and try to get it into at least the $20 - $40 range. Do these numbers sound about right?

Also, what is everyone opinions on locators? Does anyone have any recommendations. Is it better to self locate?

Any feedback is much appreciated.

[massalonvending]

Honestly, I have a few pubs with a few hundred people going through each day, and I see $70/month. I also have a liquor store with about 3k clients per day, and I see $40/month. Foot traffic does not matter as much as the caliber of people. For example, alot less children go into a liquor store than a neighborhood pub, and I have noticed that children are more inclined to buy the product than adults. Just look at the clients before you choose. 

[All Pro Vending Locators]

Your friend is correct.  70.00 is hitting a home run.  The average is going to be about 10.00 a month per machine. Good luck to you.

[markvend]

Yes those averages are pretty right on.  You can massage those averages if you'll do what was mentioned-pull after 2 months and find a new place.  You can do really well if you're patient and maximize your resources.