Vending machines are a common sight in many parts of America. They offer quick and easy access to snacks, drinks, and other items without the need for human interaction. In this article, we will take a closer look at some vending machine statistics in America, including how many vending machines there are, what they sell, and how much revenue they generate.
According to the National Automatic Merchandising Association (NAMA), there are over 5 million vending machines in the United States. These machines can be found in a variety of locations, including office buildings, schools, airports, and shopping malls. With so many vending machines in the country, it’s no surprise that they generate a significant amount of revenue each year.
In terms of what vending machines sell, snacks and beverages are by far the most popular items. In fact, according to a report by IBISWorld, the vending machine industry generates over $7 billion in revenue annually, with nearly 75% of that coming from snack and beverage sales. Some of the most popular items sold in vending machines include soda, water, chips, candy, and cookies.
However, vending machines are not limited to just snacks and drinks. Many vending machines now offer a variety of other items, such as toiletries, electronics, and even fresh food. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards healthier vending machine options, with many machines now offering items such as fruit, granola bars, and nuts.
One interesting trend in the vending machine industry is the rise of cashless payments. According to a report by Vending Marketwatch, nearly 20% of vending machines now accept mobile payments, and that number is expected to continue to grow. This shift towards cashless payments is driven by a number of factors, including convenience for customers and increased security for operators.
Another important factor in the vending machine industry is the location of machines. According to NAMA, the most common location for vending machines is in offices, followed by schools and hospitals. This makes sense, as these are locations where people are often in need of a quick snack or drink. However, vending machines can also be found in more unusual locations, such as on college campuses, in hotels, and even on the street in some cities.
Vending machines are a ubiquitous part of American culture, offering a convenient way to access snacks, drinks, and other items. With over 5 million machines in the country generating billions of dollars in revenue each year, it’s clear that vending machines are here to stay. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovation in the vending machine industry, including increased use of cashless payments and more diverse product offerings.