Bulk Vending is a Winner

Many people are still amazed when they put a quarter into a machine and something as simple as a gumball or a handful of peanuts comes out into the palm of their hand. Though these machines seem so simple, they remain a source of fascination for many. Possible the most amazing thing about these mechanical wonders is that they were invented nearly 200 years ago. European inventors were the first to create a business around bulk vending. Bulk vending is the process of purchasing small items that will fit into a small mechanical vending machine for the purpose of selling it for a profit. Large numbers of these machines are strategically placed in highly trafficked areas to assure the potential for good profits. High volume is the key to bulk vending.

The business of bulk vending began late in the 19th century with the vending of post cards in Europe. A bit later mechanical machines vending confections such as gumballs made their way to America. New Yorkers walking along the myriad of subway platforms were some of the first customers of the Thomas Adams Gum Company. They introduced bulk vending to the United States in 1888. Tutti frutti was the first flavor of gum vending those machines and they were indeed a hit. Since then different flavors, colors shapes and sizes have been invented especially for bulk vending machines.

Bulk vending machines today still use many of the same principals that they used in the 1800s. Their primary mechanisms are generally non-electric mechanical cranks and buttons. They are usually lightweight and any electricity that is used is for novelty related devices unrelated to the actual process of vending. Many of these machines today have elaborate lights and even games (such as pinball) attached to them. Therefore, these simple gumball machines have not completely escaped modernization. Startling modernizations can be found in full line vending machines and the technology advances yearly.

Full line vending is the sale of various food items in one or a series of vending machines. Snacks, meals, hot and cold drinks can all be found in one location and sometimes in just one vending machine. These machines are highly mechanized with computers and software driving complex functions for the convenience of the consumer. This convenience equates to potentially large profits for the full line vendor.

Another advantage to full line vending is the need for fewer machines. The disadvantages may include the need for heavy equipment to move the machines and product. Trucks and dollies are often used on a daily basis for the success of a full line vending business. Expert maintenance is usually required in the smooth operation and repair of these large machines. Such maintenance can be expensive and higher costs simply come with the territory.

The difference between bulk and full line vending is the general style of the business itself. Bulk vendors may be part time business opportunists, while full line vendors may need an entire staff to successfully run there business. Nevertheless, vending is now one of the most lucrative businesses worldwide.

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