When deciding on whether or not to purchase a new product or sign up for a new service, it's always important to do some research before making any final decisions. The same goes for finding vending services for your location.
While the supplier will want to survey your location to determine if it's a good fit for their business, you also need to interview them to make sure they're a good fit for you. Below are five questions to ask when signing up for new vending services.
5 Questions To Ask Your Vending Machine Supplier
1. How Long Has The Company Been In Business?
The longer a vending machine company has been around is typically a good testament to their service. This doesn't mean that a new company can't provide the same benefits, but it's indicative of the industry knowledge, experience, and resources a company has to provide great service.
2. How Many Accounts Do They Service?
Much like experience, the amount of locations the supplier services is usually a good indicator that they are well-vested in providing great service. After all, they must be doing something right to keep signing new customers!
3. What Flavors/Brands Do They Offer?
Many local vending machine operators can provide both Coke and Pepsi flavors, but sometimes they're partial to one or the other. This typically has to do with how much they have to pay for the product they put in your machine. Make sure the supplier offers the flavors you want before making your decision.
4. Do They Use Any Vending Management Software?
There are a lot of logistics involved with running a successful vending company. From keeping up with route schedules to tracking inventory, having the proper software to help manage the day-to-day or weekly process is extremely valuable and makes everything run more efficiently. Ask the supplier if they use the Canteloupe, Seed, or Streamware programs to help with managing their business.
5. Do They Have Liability Insurance?
Any company, vending or otherwise, that is worth using should have basic liability insurance for their business. If they're not willing to pay a nominal fee for protection, you'll really have to consider whether or not the company is sophisticated enough to provide good service.
As a vending management company, we work with hundreds of local vending operators from coast to coast. When trying to determine if we should work with a new company, we always ask these questions first to help guide us in making the decision.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vending Services
What should I consider about a vending company’s experience?
The length of time a vending company has been in business is a good indicator of their industry knowledge, experience, and resources. While newer companies can also provide good service, established companies often have a proven track record.
Why is the number of accounts a vending supplier services important?
The number of locations a supplier services usually reflects their ability to provide great service. A company with many accounts is likely doing something right to maintain and grow their customer base.
How do I know if a vending supplier offers the flavors or brands I want?
Many local vending operators offer popular brands like Coke and Pepsi, but some may favor one brand over another based on product costs. It’s important to confirm that the supplier carries the flavors and brands you prefer before deciding.
What role does vending management software play in service quality?
Vending management software helps suppliers efficiently handle logistics such as route schedules and inventory tracking. Asking if they use programs like Canteloupe, Seed, or Streamware can indicate how well they manage their operations.
Is liability insurance necessary for a vending company?
Yes, any reputable vending company should have basic liability insurance. This protects both the supplier and your business, and lack of insurance may suggest the company is not sufficiently professional.
What questions should I ask a vending machine supplier before signing up?
You should ask about their years in business, number of accounts serviced, available flavors and brands, use of vending management software, and whether they have liability insurance. These questions help ensure you choose a reliable and suitable vending service.
