I have been researching and evaluating getting into the vending business for awhile now (nearly a year). I would like to start small with 5 or less combo machines. I have looked at new and used machines. I have also been to vending shows and have talked to several companies I have found on the net. I have also called approximately 12 locators. Calling locators was not very successful. Most never returned my calls and the couple that did were highly priced based on information I had gathered. Most recently I talked to Advance Vending but have read the recent postings and see the recommendation is to stay clear of them. Several months back I almost purchased three used machines but decided against it after learning the shipping cost was nearly $900 dollars.

Ideally most people getting into the business would like to minimize risk and keep the initial investment low. I too would like to do that but have come to the point now of not knowing what to do other than do nothing at all. Most of what I read says stay clear of the companies selling machines and providing locators. Buying used machines will certainly keep the cost down but which ones are the right machines and how do you buy something that will be trouble free and guaranteed to be operational. I thought buying mechanical machines may have some advantages over electronics ones but now I am not sure. Finally finding locations. This is another area that is difficult to secure locations. Nearly all the places I visit already have a machine. Ideally I would work with a locator but can’t seem to find one that is reasonably priced or trustworthy.

So as you can read I have been exploring getting into the vending business for some time. I did not just jump but did my research. Unfortunately I am nearing the end of my exploration only to decide to walk away and not get into the business at all.

If anyone has any feedback or information that I could trust, I would be happy to give it one more shot.

Thanks, joe t