Hey there, Vendpreneur!

Welcome to Becoming a Vendpreneur—where every week I help you navigate the challenges of running a vending machine business, whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your operation.

This week, I’m diving into 7 reasons why other vending machines are making money (and yours aren’t):

• Your location isn’t great.

• Your machine looks sketchy.

• You’re not restocking enough.

• …and more!

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Have you ever looked at your vending machine’s earnings and thought, “Why isn’t this making more money?”

Meanwhile, other operators are out there pulling in over $1,000 a month (yup, per machine).

It’s not just luck.

There are specific reasons why some vending machines underperform, and some of them are things you’d never expect.

Here are 7 reasons why some vending machines flop: 👇

Reason #1: Your Location Sucks

Your vending machine lives or dies by its location. Period.

It doesn’t matter how awesome your vending machine is.

A $500 used machine built in 1995 in a busy location will always outperform a $8,500 brand new high tech touchscreen machine in a ghost town. So take a hard look at where your machine is sitting.

Is it getting foot traffic? Are the right customers passing by?

If not, it’s time to move.

Reason #2: Your Machine Looks Sketchy

Would you buy from a vending machine that looks old, dirty, or damaged?

Probably not.

People don’t trust machines that look sketchy. If it seems broken, they assume it is.

A clean, well-maintained machine gets more sales. Customers feel safer using it.

So wipe it down, fix any dents, and keep it stocked.

Reason #3: Your Machine Only Takes Cash

It’s 2025. Almost no one carries cash anymore.

People expect to pay with credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payments.

If they can’t, they walk away.

Adding a card reader is one of the easiest upgrades you can make, and it instantly boosts sales by at least 30%.

Reason #4: You’re Not Restocking Enough

If customers see a half-empty machine, they assume it’s not well-maintained (or worse, out of order 😬).

A fully stocked machine looks more inviting and gives people more choices. More choices mean more sales.

Check your inventory regularly and restock before items run out.

Reason #5: You’re Not Advertising Your Machine

Ever tried putting up a sign that says, “New Snacks Just In!” or “Fan-Favorite Drink Here!”?

It might seem small, but little tricks like this make a huge difference.

People notice, get curious, and are more likely to buy.

Want to take it up a notch? Use bright stickers, fun promotions, or even a digital screen to highlight your best-sellers.

I do this with my classic & smart machines, and trust me, it works!

The more eyes on your machine, the more money it makes.

Reason #6: You Don’t Talk to Your Customers

Guessing what people want is a fast way to lose sales.

Before installing your machine, talk to your customers by running a simple pre-install survey. Ask them what snacks and drinks they actually want.

This one step can save you from stocking the wrong items. But don’t stop there!

Once your machine is up and running, keep checking in.

Pro tip: Survey your customers once a quarter. Tastes change, and your vending machine should too.

Reason #7: You’re Not Thinking Like a Business Owner

Vending isn’t just “passive income.”

It’s a business, and if you don’t treat it like one, you’re losing money.

• Track your sales.

• Adjust your prices.

• Find more locations.

The best vending operators don’t rely on luck. They optimize EVERYTHING.

And That’s a Wrap!

Thanks for reading this week’s newsletter.

Hit reply and let me know what you found most helpful this week—I read every single reply and I’d love to hear from you!

See you next Saturday!

-Ethan

Before you go, here are 3 ways I can help you get started in vending:

1.) Vending Machine LaunchPad - Learn exactly how to start and grow your vending business step-by-step and get direct access to me with 3 live calls per week, downloadable resources, templates, and a lot more.

2.) Pod Plug Franchise - With a super low-cost entry franchise, you’ll get three smart machines, starting inventory, and hands-on training. Join the waitlist!

3.) Nayax - Add cashless payments to your machines with Nayax card readers. Use my promo code “ETHANPROMO” for a nice little discount.