Full Line Vending vs. Bulk Vending
I should probably start with a general definition for people that are entirely new to vending. Full line vending consists of generally larger machines which vend a variety of products including soda, snacks, sandwiches, condoms, and cigarettes. This is by no means a full list as I could probably fill a sheet with things that could be considered full line vending.
Bulk vending machines are usually much smaller machines consisting of one, two, or three “heads” or compartments for loose (“bulk”) candy.
This includes gumballs, M&M’s, peanuts and even capsules containing tattoos, key rings, and other such kid toys.
For the sake of this article I’m not including vending amusements which are crane machines, fortune teller machines, and kid’s rides like those found outside of big box stores. It’s been my experience that most people don’t specialize in vending amusements but rather roll it into their primary vending business.
Now that we know what we’re discussing here’s a general overview.
Full Line Pros: Since the machines are more expensive, there is a little less competition. You can have a lot less locations and machines for the same amount of profit.
Full Line Cons: With full line vending the machines are much (MUCH) heavier and more difficult to transport. They usually require electricity to operate so that may limit where you can put the machine. The machines are big so it’s a little bit more of a commitment to get one placed. If a manager OK’s a placement and then the owner comes in the next day and overrides his decision you are not going to be happy. More full line vending companies have placement contracts then do bulk vendors; this contract usually covers what percentage of your profits you give to the business owner. Full line machines are more expensive so starting out is going to cost more. Full line machines typically need to be serviced more frequently, once a week or every other week depending on volume. Since the machines are both mechanical and electrical they are more difficult to repair.
Bulk Vending Pros: Compared to the full line machines, the bulk machines are virtually light weight, plus they can fit in a car. No electricity is needed for most bulk machines. (There are some exceptions to the electricity rule such as the really fancy lighted, spiral maze gumball machines that you may have seen around.) The equipment is cheap and easy to repair. The machines are small and can be placed virtually anywhere. It’s less of a “perceived risk” or “commitment” to the business owner to place a very small machine rather than a bigger one. The machines need to be serviced a lot less than full line machines. A typical cycle for servicing is 30 – 90 days, mine are on 45 – 60 day cycles.
Full Line Cons: Because the equipment is cheaper you will have much more competition. To make a decent living you need LOTS of machines. Although the machines are light compared to full line vending, they are not exactly light, about 60 lbs. when full of candy. Spend a day moving and placing these all day and you’ll feel it. Machines can be very easily stolen.
As I read this, it seems I listed quite a few more cons for full line vending than bulk vending. Although this was not my intent, perhaps I am biased as I chose to do bulk vending myself. My own personal reasons for choosing bulk were primarily based on transporting the machines and not feeling like I have the ability required to work on the machines. If you choose to go with the full line vending, it’s a valid choice just not one that I thought was right for me. And also there is no hard and fast rule that says you can’t do both full line and bulk candy. It does seem that people tend to specialize in one or the other, but you can pretty much do what you want, as it is your business.
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