It seems as though everything is connected to the internet these days. Name a device that isn't. Pretty difficult, right? Everything from thermostats to TVs to garage door openers has some form of online functionality. Even vending machines can connect to the internet. That's the world we live in. The world of the Internet of things, or IoT.
- Better route management
- More accurate cash collection
- Instant notifications for service issues
Additionally, the use of internet-connected vending machines results in more cash collected. Suppliers can even make more money with fewer visits by eliminating waste.
What does this mean outside of vending operators?
For customers it's simple: better service.
Internet-connected vending machines at your location means suppliers are notified of service issues in real-time, which helps the operator resolve issues faster. Compare that to equipment that is not connected. You'd have to call in service problems when you have the time, adding a significant delay to the required service.
Internet-connected vending machines also increase the accuracy of cash collection, resulting in more accurate commission payments.
Better route management means your location will be serviced in a timely manner, not just whenever an operator is able to visit.
Outside of vending customers, retailers can also benefit from internet-connected vending machines.
We've talked about retailers using vending machines before. Part of the heightened interest in this concept is because of the internet-connected vending machines.
With connected machines, retailers can keep track of sales.
One company finding success with vending machines is Fastenal, a tool supply company. The company currently has over 80,000 internet-connected vending machines that sells products, which has a measurable impact on the company's 10% year-over-year growth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Connected Vending Machines
What are connected vending machines?
Connected vending machines are vending machines that are linked to the internet, allowing them to send and receive data. This connectivity enables better management and operational efficiency for vending operators.
How do connected vending machines benefit vending operators?
They help operators manage daily operations more efficiently through better route management, more accurate cash collection, and instant notifications for service issues, which can reduce waste and increase cash collected.
What advantages do connected vending machines offer to customers?
Customers benefit from better service because operators receive real-time notifications of service issues, allowing faster resolution compared to non-connected machines that require manual reporting.
How do connected vending machines improve cash collection accuracy?
Internet connectivity allows for precise tracking of cash collected, which leads to more accurate commission payments for operators and suppliers.
In what way does route management improve with connected vending machines?
Connected machines enable operators to plan and execute service visits more efficiently, ensuring locations are serviced in a timely manner rather than only when operators are available.
Can retailers benefit from connected vending machines?
Yes, retailers can track sales data from connected vending machines, which helps them monitor performance and manage inventory more effectively.
Is there an example of a company successfully using connected vending machines?
Fastenal, a tool supply company, uses over 80,000 internet-connected vending machines, contributing to their 10% year-over-year growth by leveraging the benefits of connected vending technology.
