In a previous blog post about credit card readers for vending machines, we discussed some of the issues of getting a device for vending equipment, mainly the cost associated with them. But a recent article by Vending Market Watch indicated that the fees cellular companies charge might be coming down in 2017.
That's great news. Not only for those wanting credit card readers, but for all cashless systems that require a cellular connection.
With mobile payment options on the rise, customers are increasingly asking us how to get Apple Pay for their vending machines. It's really quite simple.
The vending company, whether it's Coca-Cola, Pepsi, or a local supplier, installs a cellular device on the machine. Provided it's within range of a wireless signal, customers can easily purchase drinks and snacks using Apple Pay, Android Pay, or credit cards.
The devices still cost money, and monthly fees still apply. But if those fees will be reduced, vending operators will be able to provide more mobile technology on their equipment.
Several companies have already made significant strides towards providing mobile payment options and credit card access to machines. Coca-Cola vowed to have 100,000 machines accept Apple Pay in North America, and a lot of them now feature Android Pay as an option.
However, as mentioned earlier the supplier needs to be confident that the sales on the machine will justify the costs. The lower costs of the mobile technology will certainly make it easier on vending companies to supply them, but they still need good sales volume from the equipment. That means the vending machine needs to be placed in a high-traffic area where the maximum amount of people at your location can easily access it.
With consumer trends pointing toward more use of mobile payment options, one can only assume that more vending machines will have cashless capabilities.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Mobile Payment Options
What are mobile payment options for vending machines?
Mobile payment options allow customers to purchase items from vending machines using digital wallets like Apple Pay, Android Pay, or credit cards via cellular devices installed on the machines.
How do vending machines accept Apple Pay and other mobile payments?
Vending companies install cellular devices on machines that connect to wireless signals, enabling customers to use Apple Pay, Android Pay, or credit cards to make purchases.
Are there costs associated with adding mobile payment options to vending machines?
Yes, there are upfront costs for the cellular devices and ongoing monthly fees, although these fees may decrease over time, making it more affordable for vending operators.
Why is the location of a vending machine important for mobile payment adoption?
Vending machines need to be placed in high-traffic areas to ensure enough sales volume to justify the costs of mobile payment technology for the supplier.
Which companies are leading in providing mobile payment options for vending machines?
Companies like Coca-Cola have committed to equipping many vending machines with Apple Pay and Android Pay capabilities, with Coca-Cola aiming for 100,000 machines in North America to accept Apple Pay.
Is cellular connectivity necessary for mobile payment options on vending machines?
Yes, a cellular device with wireless signal access is required for vending machines to process mobile payments like Apple Pay and Android Pay.
How is the trend of mobile payment options expected to evolve in vending machines?
Consumer trends indicate increasing use of mobile payments, so it is expected that more vending machines will adopt cashless and mobile payment capabilities in the future.
