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If you’re considering buying or installing a vending machine, one of the first questions that comes up is: Where can I put my vending machine? The right location can make all the difference, whether you’re aiming for passive income, looking to offer extra convenience at your workplace, or trying to get the most out of an underused space.
But not every “busy” spot is a good one. There’s more to it than foot traffic.
We’ll walk you through the best places to put a vending machine, what you need to consider before choosing a location, and a smarter option if you’d rather not manage everything yourself.
The 8 Best Places to Put a Vending Machine
Choosing the right location is one of the most important factors in whether your vending machine will succeed or sit untouched. It’s not just about foot traffic, it’s about visibility, convenience, access, product fit, and sometimes, permission.
Below are some of the most effective places to install a vending machine, based on what we’ve seen work across hundreds of real sites.
Offices
Office staff don’t always have the time or energy to duck out for a snack or coffee during busy periods. A vending machine in the lunchroom, foyer, or shared space can keep teams productive and reduce downtime.
Machines are also helpful for after-hours or shift-based offices where nearby shops might be closed.
- Watch for: Placement that allows easy access without blocking movement
- Tip: Combo machines work well here, with a mix of cold drinks, snacks, and light meals
Warehouses & Industrial Sites
In industrial areas, it’s common for workers to have limited access to food nearby. A vending machine ensures round-the-clock availability of food and drink, especially useful for night shifts, rotating rosters, and high-output teams.
Some workplaces also use vending to supplement long lunch breaks or reduce traffic congestion around nearby cafés.
- Watch for: Power availability in warehouse environments, especially in open-plan or shed-style spaces
- Tip: Prioritise filling products like bottled water, energy drinks, muesli bars, and ready-to-eat meals
Schools
Vending machines can be a helpful addition to primary and secondary schools when installed with the right permissions and stocked with suitable products. They provide a quick, convenient option for staff and students, particularly during recess, lunch, or after school hours.
To ensure suitability, machines should offer healthier choices and be located in a safe, supervised area that doesn’t disrupt classroom flow or create unnecessary foot traffic.
- Watch for: Approval from school leadership and product guidelines that comply with school health policies
- Tip: Choose products that align with your school’s wellbeing goals — think low-sugar drinks, nutritious snacks, and portion-controlled options
Universities
University campuses have thousands of students moving between classes, libraries, and social areas all day and often well into the evening. Students don’t want to wait in long lines or walk far for a quick snack or drink.
Strategic placements near lecture halls, dorms, libraries, and transit hubs tend to perform well.
- Watch for: Existing vending arrangements or contracts already in place
- Tip: Include both budget-friendly snacks and healthier, high-protein options for busy students
Hospitals
Hospitals run 24/7, and so do the needs of their staff, visitors, and patients. A vending machine can fill the gap left by closed cafés or long queues, especially during late-night or early-morning shifts.
Machines placed in emergency departments, waiting rooms, staff lounges, or near exits are often heavily used.
- Watch for: Access to outlets, appropriate noise levels, and product types suited to a wide audience
- Tip: Include a variety of drinks (including decaf), healthy snacks, and small meals
Gyms & Fitness Centres
Members often want a drink or snack after a session, especially if they’re squeezing in a workout before work or over lunch. Vending machines in gyms are perfect for selling protein shakes, low-sugar drinks, or even ready meals.
High usage usually comes from strategic placement near exits, change rooms, or reception.
- Watch for: Making sure the product selection caters to vegan, keto, & high-protein diets
- Tip: Include popular brands and chilled items to increase sales
Hotels & Accommodation
Guests arriving late or leaving early don’t always have time to track down food, especially if your location is outside a major CBD. A vending machine provides round-the-clock convenience with no need for extra staffing.
The best placement is near lifts, reception, or guest common areas.
- Watch for: Machines near guest rooms should be quiet and unobtrusive
- Tip: Include snacks, bottled water, microwave meals, and travel essentials like toothpaste or pain relief
Retail Spaces & Businesses
If you manage a showroom, shared office space, or customer-facing commercial venue, a vending machine can be a simple way to enhance the experience and sometimes create a new income stream.
Think reception areas, service lounges, or entrances to high-traffic zones.
- Watch for: Machines should be placed in visible, easily accessible locations
- Tip: Consider upgrading to a smart vending machine with digital screens for added engagement and direct marketing
What to Consider Before You Place a Machine
Even the best location can underperform if a few key details aren’t sorted out first. Before placing a vending machine, it’s worth thinking through the practical side, not just the foot traffic.
Power and Access
Most vending machines need a standard power outlet, and smart machines may also require a reliable internet connection. If your chosen space is outdoors or semi-exposed, you’ll need to ensure weather protection and cable safety, too.
Visibility and Foot Traffic
It’s not just about volume, it’s about relevant foot traffic. A machine in a gym or staff room will likely outperform one in a low-traffic hallway. Think about whether people will stop, look, and buy and if the machine is easy to get to.
Permissions and Agreements
If you don’t own the property, you’ll need approval from the landlord, property manager, or site coordinator. You may also need to outline how electricity will be billed, who’s responsible for servicing, and whether revenue will be shared.
Security and Risk
Machines placed in open or unsupervised areas are more vulnerable to theft or damage. Ensure your machine is in a secure location, ideally with cameras or foot traffic around. Outdoor placement? You’ll need extra protection from weather, dust, and tampering.
Product Fit
Match what you sell to the people using the space. University students might prefer affordable snacks, while office staff might want ready meals and cold brew. A one-size-fits-all machine usually doesn’t perform as well as one that’s been customised to suit the audience.
How Xvend Makes Vending Easy
If you want the benefits of a vending machine without the work, Xvend takes care of everything for you.
We supply fully stocked, contactless vending machines with $0 hire, free installation, and ongoing servicing.
From the moment it’s installed, we monitor stock levels remotely, restock based on what your staff or customers keep buying, and keep the machine running smoothly. If something goes wrong, we’re quick to respond.
If you’re looking for a simple, reliable vending solution, contact us online or call 0439 224 706 and speak to a vending expert today.
