If you’re looking to get on board with the healthy vending revolution that’s taken America by storm, you’ll need the right vending machine, appropriate product, and the best locations, without breaking the bank! We’re here to tell you exactly how you can do this without being locked into a franchise such as Human Healthy Vending.
Whether you’re vending traditional snacks, drinks, healthy snacks, or a combination, you’ll need a vending machine that is appropriate for your product and eye-catching to draw in customers. Many healthy vending franchises say they’re giving you a great deal when they offer vending operators start-up packages that include the machine, product, locations, tutorials, etc. for exorbitant prices. Such franchises include Human Healthy Vending, Healthy You, Fresh Healthy Vending, Naturals 2 Go, and others. Don’t be fooled! You can buy a vending machine new or used with a warranty for less than half of the cost that the healthy vending franchises charge! When buying a machine, keep in mind that a Healthy Wrap or some other healthy design/decal will identify your vending machine as a healthy option for customers and attract more sales.
Many healthy vending operators who are just getting into the business are under the impression that they have to special-order product or purchase online to offer their customers the healthier options they’re looking for. Many of the franchises like HUMAN Healthy Vending and Fresh Healthy Vending are spreading these lies but it simply is not true! 
You can find most healthy vending products locally. Check out our blog post on healthy product ideas. Buying in bulk from places like Sam’s Club or Costco can save you hundreds when re-stocking your machine and you can then pass those savings on to your customers. Additionally it is more convenient to be able to buy them on demand as you are serving your route instead of waiting days for the product to arrive.
Once you have the perfect healthy vending machine with all the best products stocked in it, you need to find the most profitable locations for your machines. Check out the DVS Blog for tips on finding and securing some of the best locations; remember that you don’t have to hire a locator or offer high commissions to get your machine in the hottest spots. You can usually sell a prospective customer on your machine, product, and services alone, without the need to offer a commission. However, if you don’t have time to locate the machines yourself, there are many great companies out there who can help you find good locations for around $400- 500. Check out our resources page for more information.
Lastly you will need the proper licensing from your state, county and city where you are doing business. Don’t get overwhelmed by the bureaucracy though. With a simple google search you should be able to find out what forms need to be filed and licenses obtained in your local area. The vending business is one of the easiest small businesses to get into and the Return on Investment (ROI) is typically less than a year if you do it right by buying an affordable machine and securing good locations. Give us a call as we are here to help you do just that. If you have additional tips and feedback please share them with us.
