Vending machines can be found all around us, but unless you are interested in what they offer you may not realize what is in them. If you make a conscious effort though you will see many things in them that you may not have realized before. All of us are familiar with those that offer snacks and drinks. Even ice cream and hot cups of coffee can be found dispensed from some of them.
Basically, a vending machine is a place to sell items that a person may need in that vicinity. They don't require a person to be there to complete the sales transaction as it is all automated. I have seen some very creative items in vending machines. For example I recently went to the bowling alley with my kids for a birthday party. I had on sandals and realized that I couldn't bowl without a pair of socks. Guess what I found in the vending machine?
The key is to fill the vending machine with whatever may sell well at that location. For example many hotels have vending machines that offer razors, toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, mouthwash, and more. These are all common items that people may forget to pack for their trip but really need. They love being able to insert some money and get that item without any problems.
Even newspapers are found to be offered in vending machines. The days of someone standing on the street corners with them is in the past. You can just insert your coins and get the newspaper you want though. It isn't uncommon for several different newspapers to be offered in a common location either.
Nothing is off limits when it comes to the world of vending machines though. You could buy fresh flowers for $10, $20, and even $50 depending on what type of arrangement you were interested in. The convenience of this makes sense and plenty of people were taking the time to buy them as well.
The last time I was at the airport I noticed people buying fresh flowers from a vending machine. That is a perfect gift you can get to greet someone you are picking up at the airport. You can also buy them when you get off the plane to take to the person you are meeting. Such convenience is something that consumers love to have right at their fingertips.
Japan has the most vending machines of any country. It shouldn't be surprising given the number of people who live there. Yet they have the most of them compared to people. In fact there is one vending machine for about every twenty people in Japan. So regardless of where you go there you will be sure to find one.
Vending machines certainly offer us much more than we often realize. They are located in places we frequent not by chance but in an effort to get us to make a purchase. Behind every vending machine is a business owner who has taken a risk. They have invested in the machines and the products they place in them. They do all they can to ensure they have consumers who will continue to buy these items.
No comments:
Post a Comment