Guide for property managers and owners

10 questions to ask before letting a vending company in your building

A free vending machine sounds simple, but the details decide whether it's a perk or a headache. Ask these 10 questions before you sign anything. We've included our own answers so you can compare.

  1. Who pays for the machine, products and installation?
    It should be the operator. Ours: we pay for everything. You provide a spot and an outlet.
  2. What share of sales do we get, and is there a minimum?
    Get the percentage in writing, and ask whether it only applies above a sales threshold. Ours: 10% of every sale, no minimum, paid monthly with a statement.
  3. How long is the contract, and how do we get out?
    Watch for multi-year terms and automatic renewals. Ours: a 90-day no-commitment trial and a plain-English agreement with no long-term lock-in.
  4. Who decides what goes inside?
    You should be able to approve and change the menu. Ours: you approve every item.
  5. Who handles refunds and customer complaints?
    If the answer is "your front desk," keep looking. Ours: our number is on the cooler, and we handle refunds directly.
  6. How often is it restocked and cleaned?
    Empty machines frustrate your people. Ours: our smart coolers report stock levels, so we refill on a regular route before items run out.
  7. What happens if it breaks or is damaged?
    Repairs and damage to the machine should be the operator's responsibility. Ours: we own it, so repairs are on us. Call or text and we'll respond within one business day.
  8. Is the operator insured?
    Ask for a certificate of insurance, especially for commercial and multifamily properties.
  9. What does it need from us?
    Space, power, internet and access. Ours: about 3 by 3 feet, a standard outlet and no Wi-Fi (it uses its own cellular connection).
  10. Who will we actually deal with?
    A local owner or a national call center? Ours: a local, owner-operated Austin business. You talk to the owner.

Want to talk through any of these? Call or text (512) 309-0270, or request a free visit.

Want a free smart cooler for your location?

No cost, 10% of sales, 90-day no-commitment trial.