Various Vending Machine Models – Planet Antares

Even though vending machines have gain huge popularity in the recent past, this one of the oldest business models. Initially these machines were used to dispense few selective products. But with technology advancement, changing customer needs and lifestyles, these machines started dispensing almost all kinds of products. As a result several hundreds of vending machine models have been introduced in to the market.

Vending machines available in the market can be broadly classified into mechanical vending machines, electrical vending machine, combination vending machine and small or large vending machines.

Mechanical vending machines do not use electricity for functioning and do not have any automated features. However, there are several benefits associated with this business such as easy to locate, completely coin generated income, ease during transportation, easy refilling and repairs and most importantly low power consumption. However, there are few disadvantages with these machines. These machines are prone to frequent breakdowns and thus have lower earning potentiality.

Electrical vending machines are another category of machines that offer respite from all these problems and thus allow operators to earn more money. Combination vending machines are the third kind of machines that are capable of dispensing more than one product at a time. These machines are easy to operate, attractive, have higher capacity and provide higher revenue per vend.

Small or large vending machines are the fourth category of machines. These are the best choice for new or upcoming entrepreneurs. The reason being their compact size, ease of operation, easy to repair and refill features. Large vending machines on the other hand have greater profit making capacity and are preferred choice of business owners as they offer variety of products.

Hence it is always advisable that the operator analyzes his business objectives and chooses the best model suitable for his kind of products to be offered.

Planet Antares Vending Machine Business In Detail

Vending machines are renowned across the globe because of the utmost convenience they offer to customers. No matter what time of the day it is you can always purchase the products of your choice just by dropping in a few coins into this magic machine. Modern day vending machines are capable of selling almost all kinds of products and are found at every nook and corner of streets.

With drastic changes in individual lifestyles, people are looking for more reliable, convenient and instant services. All this is possible with a single vending machine. In fact this is what has lead to the growth of this billion dollar industry. In fact this is the only industry that has been able to give life to several aspiring youth even during severe economic crisis.

There are hundreds of models of vending machines available in the market. Of all these snacks, candies, drinks and food vending machines from Planet Antares are considered to be the most standard and popular ones. With technological revolution, modern vending machines are capable of dispensing DVD’s and even insurance policies.

If you are one among them who is planning to start your own business, make sure you estimate capital requirements properly and begin with the purchase of a new vending machine of reputed brand. Although you might be able to procure a used machine at lesser costs, they would definitely prove to be costly in the long run. The best vending machines are those that are made up of metal. However make sure you gather a lot of information about various vending machine models and their prices by conducting a thorough market research.

Once you have decided on the machine and the products you would like to vend in them, your next move would be to identify best location and strategically place them. Once this is does, it becomes mandatory for the operator to check the working condition and service requirements of these machines on a regular basis. Proper maintenance not only enhances the life of the machine but also ensures in providing uninterrupted services to customers and thus boost your sales.

Why Should You Prefer Glass Front Vending Machines from Planet Antares

Since vending machines were first introduced in the market, these machines have undergone several changes time and again to stay at par with changing markets and needs of customers. There are no set guidelines for running this business. Both operators and manufacturers only learn from their mistakes. This is what has happened in the evolution process of vending machines.

Wide variety of vending machines have been designed right from coin operated ones to mechanical and most recently glass front vending machines from Planet Antares. The drawbacks in the earlier models paved way for development of fool proof machines. Thus glass front vending machines were evolved. These machines were quite popular since there were several benefits associated with its use. Some of these benefits are:

• Increased sales: In a front glass vending machine, customer can see the product which he is going to purchase. Hence it is believed increase sales and draws the attention of passers by.

• Attractive features: These machines come with illuminated motor and pull forward trays that increase the ease of dispensing. They also come with several eye catching features that give complete customer satisfaction.

• Shelf space: A glass front vending machine from Planet Antares comes with small shelf space that can accommodate more products when compared to drop shelf unit.

• Customer interaction: Customer involvement is more in a glass front machine when compared to an enclosed one.

• Unnecessary wastage: Glass front vending machines come with electronic tracking which is used to track movement of products. This helps in tracking fast moving products and also prevents wastage.

• Wide choice: In a glass front vending machine, customer has more items to choose from.

• Branded products: Glass Front vending machines are best suitable for selling branded products.

We are sure that after going through these benefits, it would definitely influence your decision while purchasing a vending machine.

Vending Most Advantageous Business

It is not exaggeration to state that vending is one of the most extraordinary businesses. Are you one of those who are looking to make a substantial income? If yes, then you can look at a vending business. This business gives you the flexibility of operating either on a part time basis or a full time basis. If you already have a full time job, you can take up this business on a part time and just devote few hours of your busy schedule. On the other hand if you are ideal and looking for a business that can be started with limited capital, then vending is perfect for you.

Besides being advantageous to its operators, this business also offers a lot of convenience to its operators by providing instant services. Some of the main benefits of this business are:

• They are easy to operate.

• Provide quick and instant services.

• Stylish and attractive with several latest and unique features.

• Can be operated by anyone as it does not ask for specific knowledge or skill set.

• Initial cost of set up: When compared to other business opportunities, the capital required to start this business is very low.

• Instant cash flow: This is one of the very few businesses that allow you to reap returns right from the time you install your machine and fill it with sufficient amount of stock.

• Cash flow: There are very few other business opportunities that are all cash. Since vending is a hundred percent cash business, you need not worry about bad debts or other collection issues.

• 24/7 Services: There are no set working hours in vending business. Your machines would be every ready to cater to the needs of its customers round the clock all 365 days.

• ROI: When compared to other business models, the profit margin in vending business is very high this allowing you to enjoy huge returns.

• Tax exemption: Tax exemption is applicable to vending business also. If you fall in the 20%-30% tax bracket, then you have great chances of increasing your profits.

• Vending business has allowed several operators to enjoy complete financial freedom and allows you to have complete control over your money and future.

• Last and most important benefit of this business is that it is least affected by recession or other economic downturns.

Locating Vending Machine Outdoors

Whenever we talk of vending machines and their installation, we only think of installing them inside schools, offices, colleges, malls, commercial complexes and other areas with huge customer gathering. But we hardly consider installing them indoors. This option is still under consideration. One of the main advantages of locating this machine outdoors is because these machines generate huge sales when located outside. However, location of most vending machines is still limited to indoors.

A vending machine located outdoors has its own advantages. These machines can reach a wider customer base because they are clearly visible. These machines are also preferred because they can offer diverse products to customers for choosing and thus enhance the profitability for its operator.

Few elements that make outdoor vending attractive are discussed below:

• Increase footage: Vending machines installed outdoors are capable of increasing footage in retail stores. This is a dual benefit of locating the machine outdoor. A customer who visits the retail store is automatically attracted towards the machine and vice versa with a customer who visits the vending machine. In both these cases, sales of both vending machine and retail stores can be boosted.

• Machines that are located outside parks have noticed that there has been an increase in the number of people visiting parks.

• National accounts of vending management companies that manage vending companies have advised vending operators to make better use of vending opportunities including outdoor sites.

Maintenance also becomes very easy for machines that are located outdoors. Another major advantage of outdoor machines over indoor ones is that operators need not face any maintenance issues or hassles with the condensers as is the case with most indoor machines. So, in case you are an operator who is in lookout for new avenues, try installing your machine outdoors and see for the results all by yourself.

Factors To Be Considered Before Stating A Vending Business

Vending is undoubtedly most profitable and simple business. This is the main reason for its growing demand. But a word of caution to all entrepreneurs, not only vending operators is-“Do not make hasty decision”. It is the prime responsibility of every businessmen to gather maximum information about the business he/she is about to take up. This method would definitely minimise the risk of failure in the future.

Every business is guided by certain rules and regulation. This also holds good for vending business. There are certain laws imposed by each state on the mode of operation. Hence operators need to check out the laws applicable when it comes to installation of vending machine. For instance: There are few states that do not allow vending machines to be placed outdoor. While few states require the vending machine to meet the standards set by National Automatic Merchandising Association for commencing its operations.

After finding details related to operations, the next and most important step would be to know the pulse of customer. Since, vending is a customer oriented business; it becomes imperative for the operator to understand customer requirements. What is that a customer would expect from a vending machine? Whom would you like to target your products? In the process of finding an answer to this question, operator would definitely be able to come up with the best products and services.

Since you are not the only person operating, you also need to know about your competitors. How many competitors are operating in the market? What are the products offered by them? What kind of machines do they use? Do they take up any specific promotional activities? All this information is helpful in designing the perfect business strategies.

Location is also an important aspect. When it comes to location, operators need to find out if they can install their business in any untapped market? They also need to look at the necessity of installing their machine in a particular locality where your competitors are already operating. Most importantly your financial limitations play vital role in the entire process of setting up your business.

All these and similar aspects need to be borne in mind before starting a vending business. For expert advice on setting up a vending business get tin touch with Planet Antares staff.

Role of Product Selection in Vending Business

The 4P’s of marketing mix emphasise the importance given to product in any business. Selection of right product is as important as the selection of the machine. In fact the choice of product vended influences the success of your business. We often keep taking about product mix. What exactly is this product mix and how does it affect a business? Product mix is the sum total of all the product items and its variants offered by an organisation. An appropriate product mix will not only keep your customers satisfied but also encourage them in repeat purchasing.

In case you are a new entrant in to vending business, then start with products that have consistent demand and that are least effected by fluctuating markets. For instance: Snacks and food items are in constant demand. Operators must make sure that they offer these products in order to have continuous sales and maximise profits over a period of time.

Another thing which operators need to consider while dispensing products is availability of supplier. This is very important because a supplier located in a nearby area would avoid delay in transporting products and thus save a lot of time and effort. Modern customers are willing to spend slightly higher amount but do not want to compromise on the quality. Hence, operator needs to check on a regular basis if the products provided by suppliers are fresh and have not crossed their expiry dates. If any customer comes across a product that has crossed its expiry period, it will create bad reputation and he will not revisit your vending machine again. This will lead to spread of negative image in the market and thus affect your business.

Selection of product is also influenced by your target audience. For instance: in case you are targeting children, try to offer products that can grab their attention easily like video games, toys etc. Understanding customer needs is key to a successful vending business. So, make sure you know your customer needs and requirements. This is possible either by asking them using questionnaires or by conducting a small market survey.

Location of your vending machine will also play an important role in deciding the products. Planet Antares experts have data pertaining to number of locations and can guide you with the choice of products. Also taking into consideration, the national demand for products they can assist you in choosing the right mix of your products. Planet Antares since 1987, is engaged in providing modern vending machines to customers across US and Canada.