Need For Product Flexibility In Vending Machines

Customer tastes and preferences keep changing with changing times. As we all know vending is a customer influenced business and it is very important for the operator to keep himself updated with changing needs of customers. It might also happen that one customer prefers one product while the other prefers another kind. If possible the operator should make necessary arrangements for offering both of them together.

Customer’s preferences are also influenced by the location. More the number of customers in an area, more diverse are their tastes. A recent survey on customer preferences in case of cool drinks was conducted and the results show that nearly 38.6% prefer coke, 27.4% prefer Pepsi while the remaining 34% prefer other soft drinks.

Assuming that you are an operator vending coke alone in your machine means that you are losing 61.4% of customers. Hence the perfect solution to this problem is to offer a wider range of products in the machine. This can satisfy your customers and result in repeat buying.

Vending operators should not stick to one particular product. Usually these days’ customers like to try out latest products introduced into the market. Operator should make use of this situation by offering them in his machine. In case the demand for these products fades away after a certain period of time, he can replace them with the earlier product.

Offering branded product is another perfect choice the operator has. These products are popular, easily recognisable and have wide acceptance among customers. One more benefit with them is that they are internationally advertised and hence operator need not take up any particular promotional activities to advertise them. Placing them in the machine alone will do wonders for him. Moreover customers prefer branded items when compared to the local unbranded ones.

The best way to keep customers happy is by offering them a wide range of products to choose from. By implementing these small changes, you are sure to reap huge profits.

Brand Recognition In Vending Business

First impression is often the last impression, this holds good even for vending business. Vending is a customer influenced business, so it becomes very important to know how customers perceive your company. You need to create a unique identity for yourself in the market which helps in distinguishing you from your competitors. You can set brand recognition by using a professional website, prepare a brochure or adopt any other significant element that sets you away from the regular operators.

• Business cards: Make use of business cards or letter head with your company logo, this helps in creating a visual identity for your-self.

• Brochures: Use brochures for advertising your company. These are effective advertising tools that help in establishing credibility.

• Website: This is internet generation; most of us browse the net whenever we want to purchase a new product or commodity. Create a highly professional website for your self that provides information related to your business. Design it in such a way by understanding what most customers would look for in such websites.

• Vending machine: Generally customers get lured by the looks of a vending machine. If you have an old machine, then you can make some modification in its looks. You can replace the old exterior panels of the machine with pre cut plastic panels for a trendier look. Thus you can promote your brand in client locations. Also opt for attractive looking vending machines from companies like Planet Antares who have been around for over 30 years.

• Signage: Make use of free advertising and branding opportunities. This is the most cost effective marketing tool.

• Employees: In case you have employees, then make sure they all carry the same uniform. Since employees represent the company, they can publicize your brand more then anyone else. Your employees should be perfectly dressed and proudly display you brand on their uniforms.

Branding is not only important for the products you vend but it is also essential for the company that sells them. For a business to become successful, unique identity in the minds of customers is essential and this is possible only with the help of branding.