How to buy a vending machine in the UK

1. Decide what the machine needs to sell

The products come first — they decide the type of machine you buy.

• Snack and can machines are the most common and the simplest to run and restock.
• Combination machines hold both snacks and drinks in one cabinet — useful for smaller spaces.
• Fresh food and hot drinks machines cost more and need more cleaning, temperature care and stock rotation.
• Non-food machines (phone chargers, PPE, toiletries) avoid most food rules but suit fewer locations.

2. New, refurbished, leased or rented

• New machines come with a warranty and the latest payment technology, at the highest price.
• Refurbished machines cost much less — buy from a reputable dealer and ask what was replaced and what warranty is included.
• Leasing or renting lowers the upfront cost but adds a monthly commitment — compare the total cost over the full term.
• Second-hand bargains from private sellers can work, but check the machine in person and budget for repairs.

3. What to check before you pay

• Card and contactless payment: many customers no longer carry cash, so a working card reader is close to essential. Check the reader's fees and who supplies it.
• Size and weight: note the width, depth and height, and measure the doors and corridors it must pass through — including at the location you have in mind.
• Power: most machines run on a standard UK socket, but confirm the machine's requirements and running cost.
• Condition: ask for the machine's age, service history and spare-parts availability. Older models can be hard to find parts for.
• Telemetry: remote stock and sales monitoring saves wasted restocking trips once you run several machines.

4. Plan delivery and installation

• Machines are heavy — ask whether delivery includes placing the machine in position, not just kerbside drop-off.
• Check the floor is flat and can take the weight, and that there's a socket within reach.
• If you sell food or drink, register as a food business with your local council at least 28 days before you start trading — it's free via GOV.UK.
• Arrange public liability insurance; most venues will ask to see it before a machine goes in.

5. Sort the location before the machine

A machine without a good location earns nothing. Many experienced operators secure the space first, then buy a machine to suit it.

• Judge locations on footfall during the hours the machine can actually be reached, not just headline numbers.
• Agree the terms in writing: monthly rent or revenue share, who pays for electricity, access times and notice period.
• Match the machine and products to the people passing — gym-goers, office staff, students or travellers.