Vending machines have become a staple in Australian workplaces, offering a convenient, hands-off way to keep staff and customers happy. But with technology evolving and expectations rising, vending machines now go far beyond chips and soft drinks.
If you’re looking into vending machine hire in Australia, understanding the types of machines available and which ones best suit your space is the first step. Let’s take a look at the most popular types of vending machines for hire in Australia and what to consider before you commit.
Why Hire a Vending Machine in Australia?
Hiring a vending machine is a low-risk, high-reward way to offer food, drinks or essential items without the overheads of a staffed café or stockroom.
Most providers offer:
- $0 hire cost
- Flexible product options tailored to your audience
- Full servicing and restocking included
- Modern tech features for easy use and monitoring
With vending machine hire available across Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, the Gold Coast and beyond, it’s easier than ever to set up a professional, self-service solution that runs in the background.
1. Combo Snack & Drink Vending Machines
These all-rounders remain the most common type of commercial vending machine for good reason. They combine snacks and drinks in a single unit, ideal for workplaces, gyms, schools and warehouses.
Common stock includes:
- Soft drinks, juices, and bottled water
- Chips, chocolate bars, protein snacks
- Fresh meal options like salads or Youfoodz packs
Many vending machine hire providers allow full control over what goes in, so you can keep it classic or go health-focused.
2. Smart Vending Machines
Smart vending machines bring automation and user experience to the next level. With features like touchscreen menus, cashless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay), and remote stock monitoring, they make things easy for everyone.
Benefits include:
- Smoother user experience
- Real-time stock tracking
- Digital product displays
- Efficient refilling and servicing
These are a popular option for modern offices, universities and health-conscious spaces.
3. Media Vending Machines
Need to promote your brand while offering products? Media vending machines include built-in LCD screens (often 21 inches) that can play video content, promotions, or ads while in use. They’re great for busy areas where visibility matters, like shopping centres, airport lounges, gyms or event spaces.
4. Custom-Branded Vending Machines
For businesses wanting a fully integrated look, some providers offer custom-wrapped vending machines. These use high-quality vinyl branding to align the machine with your business’s identity, whether it’s your logo, colours or promotional campaign. This option is commonly used in retail settings, branded workspaces and pop-up activations.
How Vending Machine Hire Works
The beauty of vending machine hire is how simple it is. Most providers take care of the whole process:
- Site inspection – to assess space and access
- Installation – machine delivered and set up
- Stock customisation – you choose what goes in
- Ongoing servicing – refilling, maintenance and tech support
- Performance tracking – live sales and inventory data
And best of all? There’s usually no cost to you. Most vending machines are stocked and maintained at no charge, with providers earning from the sales.
Where You’ll Find Vending Machines in Australia
Commercial vending machines are common in:
- Offices and coworking spaces
- Warehouses and industrial sites
- Fitness centres and gyms
- Hospitals and healthcare clinics
- Universities and schools
- Transport hubs and retail centres
Whether you’re in a CBD high-rise or a regional warehouse, there’s likely a vending hire solution to suit.
What to Consider Before Hiring
Before locking in a vending machine, consider:
- Space and layout – Is there room and access to power?
- Your audience – Staff, students, customers? What will they use?
- Preferred products – Snacks, drinks, fresh food, PPE or tech?
- Technology features – Do you need smart features or a media display?
- Branding – Would a wrapped machine enhance your space?
Why More Australian Workplaces Are Hiring Vending Machines
Hiring a vending machine is a practical, low-maintenance way to add value to your workplace or venue. With no upfront costs and full servicing included, it’s an easy win, whether you’re offering snacks for your staff or fresh meals to visitors. From combo snack machines to smart and branded units, vending machines in Australia are smarter, sleeker, and more customisable than ever. Contact the team at Xvend to learn more about our $0 hire fee.
FAQs
What types of vending machines can I hire in Australia?
You can hire combo snack and drink machines, smart vending machines, media-enabled machines, and custom-branded options, depending on your space and audience.
Is there a cost to hire a vending machine?
In most cases, vending machine hire is free. Providers cover costs and earn revenue from the products sold.
Who restocks the vending machine?
The vending machine provider typically handles restocking and servicing, so you don’t need to lift a finger.
Can I choose what products go in the machine?
Yes, many providers allow you to customise the machine’s stock to suit your staff or customers.
Where can vending machines be installed?
Vending machines can be installed in offices, gyms, schools, hospitals, warehouses, and other commercial spaces, anywhere with enough space and power access.