Are you thinking about buying a machine? You do not know whether to choose a used machine or a new one? Before you decide, check out the advantages and disadvantages of used vending machines.
Advantages of used vending machines
Second-hand machines are great at the beginning of your vending journey - for the first investment in a machine, when you have a fairly limited budget, the cost is very important.
- economic factor - a second-hand machine can be bought for about 30-50% of the price of a new one
- wide range of vending machines - snack, coffee, touch screen, cold drink and many more
- they are a good choice for the beginning when you are on a tight budget and want to try your hand at vending
- older, second-hand vending machines, even if a little bit shabby, can be profitable, e.g. on construction sites or in poor weather conditions
- they can be very profitable with a relatively low initial cost for the purchase of the machine, accessories and products
Disadvantages of used vending machines
- no warranty
- may require more time for service or repair
- there is no way of knowing what faults may occur after prolonged use of the machine
- may not be as profitable as a new machine; this depends on its location, design, integrated payment systems and, above all, the target audience. Corporate employees are more likely to use new technology and new things; an older vending machine may not encourage this group to buy products, even of the best quality. On the other hand, a new vending machine will not be suitable for construction sites or warehouses, where it can quickly become damaged.
Second-hand vending machines are often older models, which do not look as attractive as their newer versions. However, we should remember that we can improve the machine's appearance and its attractiveness and functionality by, for example, additional options or payment systems.
What to look for when buying a used vending machine?
It is best to check, see and test the vending machine yourself - only then you can be sure that the machine is working and worth buying. Pay particular attention to:
- the general appearance and condition of the machine - whether there is no external damage, whether it is well maintained, clean, scratched
- coin acceptor - check if it is not damaged, if there are no missing or broken parts (when testing the coin acceptor, remember that there must be moments in it - without coins, it will not work)
- payment systems (if integrated)
- MDB (it allows you to connect other devices, such as card readers or telemetry modems)
- compressor - check if the connected machine actually cools and if there are no leaks
Extra tips:
- ask the seller about the condition of the machine, any faults or defects, before going there - do not waste your time looking at a faulty machine
- take some products with you to check the machine - you will be able to test the vending machine on the spot before buying it
- if something does not work or parts are missing - bargain the price - you can easily buy parts for the machines, new or used.
- pay attention to the manufacturer - Necta, FAS or Saeco machines are well known and it is easier to find parts or solutions to problems than in the case of less known companies.
Hopefully, now that you know the pros and cons of used vending machines, you are closer to buying your first machine. Also, think about where you would like to place the machine - location is very important and has a very large impact on turnover.
Buying a vending machine is not a small investment, however, if it is well planned and thought out, you will certainly recoup all your costs quickly. We wish you good luck with your purchases and successful investments!
