Several Fun Vending Ideas

vending, a type of business where goods are sold through vending machines, has been relatively recent in our country, unlike in European countries and America. It involves selling a variety of products from beverages to food items through vending machines. What started with just drinks and snacks has evolved over time to incorporate a wide range of products and ideas from inventors worldwide. In this article, we explore some of the most interesting and unusual vending machine concepts.

Live Crabs from a Vending Machine

Chinese innovators came up with the idea of vending machines filled with live crabs, as crabs are a popular food item in China with consistent demand. Surprisingly, these machines manage to keep the crabs alive for a considerable duration. Initially, Chinese citizens were hesitant to purchase crabs from vending machines as the crabs appeared lifeless. However, it was discovered that due to low temperatures and airtight packaging, the crabs remained in a dormant state, showing no signs of life. Once this information became public knowledge, the business took off.

These delicacies cost around $5 to $7 each, with an average daily sale of up to 200 crabs. To ensure customer satisfaction and maintain competitiveness, if a customer receives a dead crab, vendors offer compensation of three units of the product in return.

Gold Bar Vending Machine

The first vending machine dispensing gold bars appeared in Frankfurt, Germany, created by the company "Gold-Super-Markt." Initially, the machine dispensed gold bars weighing between 1 to 10 grams, with prices fluctuating based on current market data.

Similar machines from the "Gold-To-Go" company were later installed in major cities like Abu Dhabi, Madrid, and London. These machines now also dispense gold bars weighing an ounce, equivalent to 28.35 grams.

While some may question the need for purchasing gold from a vending machine when banks offer the same service, the advantage of vending machines lies in the speed of the transaction. Buying a gold bar from a bank may take up to three days, whereas through a vending machine, it takes just a few seconds. The significant time difference highlights the convenience of vending machine transactions.

"SleepBox" - Automated Rest Compartment

Russian creativity shines through in vending businesses as well. Recently, the Russian company "Arch Group" introduced the "SleepBox," a small sleeping compartment measuring only 3.75 square meters.

Equipped with a bed, a laptop table, luggage space, and electrical outlets, the SleepBox offers essential amenities. The interior of the box can be customized as desired.

Each user receives fresh bedding automatically after use. Payment is processed through a special system, and an audible signal indicates the end of the paid period.

Such compartments are ideal for installation in airports, train stations, shopping malls, and other locations with high foot traffic. During warmer seasons, these cabins can even be set up outdoors.

Bicycle Rental Vending Machines

The idea of bicycle rental vending machines originated in the Netherlands through the company "Bikedispenser." These machines facilitate renting bicycles, providing convenient transportation without the need for ownership. To ensure the safe return of bicycles, they are equipped with special sensors.

100 bicycles can be housed in each machine, with turnaround times of just 15 seconds for both rental and return. With the rising popularity of eco-friendly transport, this concept holds great potential for profitability.

Umbrella Vending Machine

In Japan, vending machines selling umbrellas have become a solution for unexpected rain showers. These machines are particularly popular in cities experiencing frequent rainfall, yet their reach could expand further.

Necktie Vending Machines

Targeting a niche audience, these vending machines cater to men facing sudden business meetings without a necktie on hand.

Manicure Vending Machine

Taiwan boasts a vending machine offering nail art services, allowing users to beautify their nails conveniently and affordably without visiting a salon. This innovative machine applies various nail designs chosen from a screen, providing manicures for about a dollar.

Toilet Paper Vending Machine

A unique vending machine innovation from Japan allows customers to purchase toilet paper at their convenience, offering a handy solution when in urgent need and no stores are in sight.