How to Get Vending Machine Contracts in High-Traffic Buildings
How to Get Vending Machine Contracts in High-Traffic Buildings
When I first started in the vending business, the biggest challenge wasn’t stocking machines—it was getting them placed. Everyone talks about how great high-traffic buildings are for vending, but no one really explains how to get the contract. It took me some trial and error, but I eventually learned how to land machines in schools, offices, hotels, apartment complexes, and even airports.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how I personally go about getting vending machine contracts in high-traffic buildings, including what to say, what to bring, and how to close the deal without sounding like a salesperson.
Table of Contents
Why Contracts Matter in Vending
A lot of beginners just drop off machines on handshake deals. I did that too. But eventually I realized that a formal contract protects you, guarantees your machine stays in place, and makes you look more professional. When you’re dealing with high-traffic spots, a proper agreement is expected.
The good news? Most building managers are open to vending machines—as long as you present it the right way and solve a problem they have.
Step 1: Identify High-Traffic Locations
Start by looking for places where:
- People wait (lobbies, lounges, break rooms)
- There’s limited food access nearby
- Employees, guests, or residents stay for hours
- The foot traffic is consistent (not just event-based)
Some great examples I’ve had success with:
- Office buildings with 50+ employees
- Apartment complexes with over 100 units
- Hotels and motels (especially those with no café)
- Auto shops and service centers
- Government buildings
- Private schools and colleges
- Co-working spaces
- Hospitals and clinics (smaller ones without cafeterias)
Step 2: Prepare a One-Page Proposal
This changed everything for me. Instead of just walking in and “pitching,” I started handing over a simple one-page proposal that outlines:
- Who I am and what I offer
- The benefits of having a vending machine (convenience, no cost, passive revenue)
- What I provide: machine, restocking, maintenance
- Commission structure (if applicable)
- A few product examples
- My contact info
This makes you look legit and takes pressure off the decision-maker. They can review it, take it to their manager, or keep it on file.
✅ Want a free vending proposal template? Let me know.
Step 3: Pitch the Right Way (What to Say)
Here’s what I usually say when walking in or calling:
“Hi, I run a small vending company and I’m looking to offer a no-cost snack and drink solution for your staff and visitors. I handle all the equipment, service, and restocking. Would you be open to having a vending machine in your building if it adds convenience without any work on your end?”
Keep it casual and don’t overcomplicate it. You’re solving a problem, not begging for space.
Step 4: Offer a Commission (Only If Needed)
In some high-traffic buildings—especially commercial properties—managers will ask, “What’s in it for us?” That’s where commissions come in.
I usually offer 5% to 10% of monthly gross sales. Some smaller locations don’t care about a commission—they just want the service. But in competitive spots, that small monthly cut might be what seals the deal.
Make sure you clearly outline how and when commissions are paid (monthly, quarterly, etc.).
Step 5: Highlight Your Insurance & Maintenance
This is where you stand out from the amateurs. I always mention that I carry liability insurance and provide all ongoing maintenance. That gives property managers peace of mind.
If you’re working in office buildings, schools, or public facilities, insurance might even be required. Having a certificate ready makes you more professional and helps you close deals faster.
Step 6: Know the Most Common Objections
I’ve heard them all. Here are the most common objections—and how I respond:
- “We’ve had a vending machine here before and it wasn’t maintained.”
– “I completely understand. I maintain my machines weekly and monitor them remotely. I even give the staff my number in case there’s ever a problem.” - “We don’t want to deal with cash.”
– “No problem, my machines are card-enabled and fully cashless.” - “We don’t want junk food here.”
– “That’s not an issue. I offer healthy options like granola bars, dried fruit, sparkling water, and protein snacks. I can customize it based on your preferences.”
Being prepared with these answers makes you sound confident and trustworthy.
Step 7: Close With a Trial Period
If someone is hesitant, I offer a 60-day risk-free trial. I’ll say:
“Let’s try it for two months. If it’s not a good fit, I’ll remove the machine, no questions asked.”
Nine times out of ten, they agree—and once the machine starts getting used, they’re happy to keep it permanently.
Final Thoughts
Landing vending machine contracts in high-traffic buildings isn’t about slick sales tactics—it’s about offering real value with zero hassle. When you present yourself as a professional, offer flexibility, and focus on convenience for their staff or guests, most building managers will say yes.
The vending business is about relationships. Start small, track your performance, and build your reputation one location at a time. Before you know it, you’ll have a full route of profitable, long-term contracts.
One of the most effective things I’ve done is follow up consistently. I’ve walked into a location, dropped off my one-pager, and didn’t hear back for a few weeks—until I followed up. A simple phone call or email that says, “Just checking to see if you had a chance to review the proposal,” has landed me more contracts than any fancy pitch.
In some cases, I’ve had to visit a location multiple times. I once got into a busy government building after showing up three times in a month. Persistence, when respectful and professional, pays off. Sometimes they’re just busy or waiting for the right timing.
When cold-calling or visiting in person, I always go during low-traffic hours. For offices, that’s usually between 10 a.m. and noon. For apartment complexes, around 2–4 p.m. is usually best. Avoid mornings when staff is slammed or late afternoons when they’re wrapping up.
For locations that are skeptical or just unfamiliar with vending, I’ll offer to start with a small table-top machine or snack box first. It lowers the barrier to entry and proves the value of the service before scaling up to a full machine.
I’ve also had great success by offering to stock only healthy products in certain locations. Schools, fitness centers, and wellness clinics appreciate that, and it helps you stand out from the typical “junk food” perception that vending still carries.
If you’re emailing potential locations, write short and direct subject lines like:
“Free Vending Service for Your Tenants?”
“Interested in Adding a Snack & Drink Machine (No Cost)?”
These get opened more often than long, formal emails. Then, keep the message short—introduce yourself, share what you offer, and attach your one-pager.
Use a tracking sheet (Google Sheet works fine) to keep a record of every location you contact, the date of first contact, who you spoke with, and when to follow up. This has helped me stay organized and avoid forgetting about solid leads.
When you finally land a contract, get everything in writing, even if it’s just a simple agreement. Outline who’s responsible for what (you handle service, they provide space), and include terms for commissions if offered. A signed agreement protects both sides and avoids future misunderstandings.
Make sure your machine placement doesn’t interfere with fire exits, walkways, or ADA compliance. I always measure the space and take photos before bringing in a machine. This shows the building manager you’re thinking ahead and being professional.
If you’re offering a commission, consider using Venmo, PayPal, or monthly digital bank transfers to automate payouts. I keep a spreadsheet that tracks each machine’s gross sales and sends out commissions at the end of every month. Consistent, transparent payments build trust and long-term relationships.
One powerful tactic I’ve used is offering a branded machine for buildings with strong aesthetics. I wrap the machine with the company’s colors, add their logo, or create a custom product layout. It shows I’m serious and adds a clean look that fits their branding.
Finally, always ask for referrals after a few months of smooth operation. Once a manager is happy with your service, ask, “Do you know any other properties that could use something like this?” I’ve gotten into multiple locations just through word of mouth—and those are often the easiest contracts to land.
