What do you guys know about the vending machine business? - Page 2

crb07 · crb07's Garage

I have been in the vending machine business for 6 months now. It is really tough. I started out with change machines, wanted to keep it simple before expanding to other types of machines. I started with 6 machines, first month I broke even, the second month I purchase 4 more machines and still only managed to break even. Third month I purchased 2 more machines and again broke even. I have not purchased any more machines and do not want to until I make a profit, but every week when I count the money I am always even, it really is a hard business.

Rick Lee · Rick Lee's Garage

Aren't your machines a one-time cost? How are you not making a small profit on them in the month after you've broken even on them? Can you break down the numbers for me? How many vends per machine per day or month? How much is your candy running you in that time too?

crb07 · crb07's Garage

You can not make money off a change machine, one dallar in-four quarters out, my idea of a joke. I am really bored right now, I want to go home and drive my car somewhere.

LeeH · 04-05-2009, 05:08 PM

Rick - there are plenty of vending machines on Craigslist - and you can pick them up at Sams. Try to place a machine before you buy one. If you get a commitment, go buy the machine.

porsche4life · porsche4life's Garage

The only way you can make money with those little ones is with 50+ of them. Also you need to check on state permits. In OK you need a permit for each vending machine and those are 50bucks a year.

HardDrive · 04-05-2009, 07:25 PM

I've heard there's big money in dirty panties machines.

porsche4life · porsche4life's Garage

^^^I dont think those will fly in American culture....

Zeke · 04-06-2009, 06:06 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crb07

You can not make money off a change machine, one dallar (sic) in-four quarters out, my idea of a joke....

Not that kind of change. We are talking about coin sorting machines that pay out in paper money. You pay 10% to convert your coins to paper.

Of course the other way around is only for convenience at something like the laundromat. The change machines are there so you will speed money. Ever been to a self car wash?