subject: Vending Machines Replacing Stores [print this page] I recently read about some interesting vending machines located in Japan -where else of course. Japan seems to offer a plethora of vending machines offering more than just soda and candy. The blog spoke of a vending machine that dispensed eggs. Sounds strange, right? It actually makes perfect sense because the particular vending machine is located in a rural area of Japan where the nearest 24-hours convenience store is not just around the corner.
Think about it. You live in a rural community filled with mom and pop shops. Mom and pop are not going to keep their store open until 3 in the morning. It's just not feasible. A lot of the time people in those communities might not need milk or eggs late at night, but that's not to say it never happens. Imagine the costs and overhead to run a convenience store. There is the cost of the property, rent, utilities, and employees to pay. It's not a cheap endeavor. But how much does it cost to purchase vending machines and to stock them? A fraction of the cost I would imagine.
Japan shouldn't be the only country taking advantage of this brilliant business plan. The key to this being a successful business venture is to pick the right location (location, location, location!), choose the right products that people need, and to continually stock fresh items. If you have eggs in the machine, those better be frequently restocked. Otherwise, the vending machine will be a bust. Items like eggs, milk, and aspirin are all things people could potentially purchase during the wee hours of the night. And they'll be grateful the town was smart enough to invest in a few well thought out vending machines.
Vending machines like this don't have to just be in the "sticks" though. Consider putting a vending machine outside a store so people can still purchase products when the store is closed. The store can continue to do business long after they've closed up shop for the day. It's a shame to miss out on more sales. There will always be the night owls or the people who arrive ten minutes too late. No their business does not have to be lost.
People are coming up with more creative and versatile uses for vending machines. It's a market that should definitely be tapped into because they are affordable and convenient. Think about all the ways vending machines can help your town or your business.
