How to Set Up a Vending Machine in a Hotel or Motel Lobby

When I first considered placing a vending machine in a hotel lobby, I wasn’t sure how to approach it. Would the manager be interested? Would guests even use it? But once I did my first install in a small motel, I realized how profitable and low-maintenance hotel vending setups can be—if you do it right.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to successfully set up a vending machine in a hotel or motel lobby, including what to stock, how to negotiate with the owner, and how to maximize your earnings.

Why Hotel and Motel Lobbies Are Prime Locations

Hotel guests often arrive late, leave early, and don’t always have time (or energy) to find a nearby store. A vending machine in the lobby becomes their most convenient snack or drink option, especially at night when restaurants and stores are closed.

I’ve placed machines in both budget motels and mid-range hotels. In both cases, they perform consistently well—particularly if there’s no café, bar, or snack shop on site. Plus, hotel staff sometimes rely on these machines too during their shifts.

Step 1: Contact the Hotel Manager or Owner

This is where most new vendors hesitate, but it’s easier than you think. I usually call or visit the hotel during off-peak hours (late morning or mid-afternoon) and ask to speak with the general manager or property owner. I keep it simple:

“Hi, I run a small vending business, and I’d love to offer a no-cost snack and drink solution for your guests and staff. I take care of everything—delivery, stocking, maintenance—and your guests get 24/7 access to refreshments.”

That’s usually enough to start a conversation. In many cases, managers are interested because it adds convenience for guests without any work on their part.

Step 2: Offer a Commission or Flat Fee (Optional)

Depending on the location, you might offer the hotel a small monthly commission or fixed rental fee. I usually offer 5%–10% of profits, or a flat $25–$50 monthly depending on machine performance. Some hotel owners are happy just to have the service available and won’t ask for any cut at all.

Be clear about how payments work, and be prepared to adjust your offer based on how busy the hotel is.

Step 3: Choose the Right Machine Size

Space is limited in many lobbies, so I recommend a compact combo vending machine that sells both snacks and drinks. These machines are versatile, easy to manage, and fit well in small waiting areas or near the check-in desk.

✅ This compact vending machine on Amazon is a great option—perfect size and easy to set up.

Make sure your machine supports cashless payments (credit card, Apple Pay, etc.). Most guests don’t carry cash, and you’ll make more money if your machine supports digital transactions.

Step 4: Plan Your Product Selection

Hotels serve all kinds of people—from business travelers to families. Your product lineup should reflect that. Here’s what I usually stock in hotel lobby machines:

Bottled water and sodas
Energy drinks (Monster, Red Bull)
Granola bars, protein bars
Chips and cookies
Mints, gum, and candy
Travel-friendly items like Tylenol packets or earplugs (if allowed)

Guests love having options late at night when everything else is closed. I avoid messy items or glass bottles for obvious reasons.

Step 5: Schedule Restocking and Maintenance

I restock my hotel machines about once per week, depending on foot traffic. For busy tourist spots, I check in more often. I also use remote monitoring apps (many modern machines support this) to track inventory and sales in real time.

Hotels appreciate consistency, so show up when you say you will and keep the machine clean and fully stocked. That alone sets you apart from vendors who are inconsistent or careless.

Step 6: Add Signage and Lighting

Simple signage can help draw attention to the machine. I often add a small sign that says “Open 24/7 – Snacks & Drinks Available” next to the front desk or near the elevator. Machines with interior LED lighting also look more attractive at night, which helps draw guests in.

Step 7: Maintain a Good Relationship With Hotel Staff

This one is key. I always take time to introduce myself to the front desk team and housekeeping. They’ll often tell you what’s selling, when items run out, or if there are any complaints. I sometimes leave them free snacks as a thank-you. It goes a long way.

When staff like you, they’ll keep your machine running smoothly and even encourage guests to use it.

Final Thoughts

Setting up a vending machine in a hotel or motel lobby is one of the best moves I’ve made in my vending business. The foot traffic is consistent, the environment is safe, and the demand is always there. If you choose the right machine, build trust with the manager, and stay on top of your inventory, your hotel location can become one of your top-performing assets.

One thing I always look for before placing a machine is whether the hotel already has a pantry or convenience corner. If they don’t, that’s your golden opportunity. Even if they do, a vending machine can complement it—especially if the front desk isn’t staffed 24/7 or if guests prefer to self-serve without asking.

Hotels near highways, airports, or industrial areas tend to perform better. Travelers arrive at all hours, and most are unfamiliar with the area, so they rely on whatever’s inside the building. That’s where your vending machine shines: it becomes the easiest choice for a late-night snack or drink.

I once partnered with a 2-star hotel right next to a truck route. With just 45 rooms and no on-site restaurant, my combo machine brought in over $300 a month in pure profit. That may not sound massive, but multiply that by 10 locations, and now you’ve got something scalable.

If you can’t place the machine directly in the lobby, the next best option is near elevators or guest laundry areas. These spots get plenty of foot traffic, especially in the evenings. I’ve even placed machines in indoor pool areas when permitted—families love having easy access to snacks without leaving the floor.

I always recommend keeping your machine extremely clean and well-lit in a hotel setting. It’s not just about sales—it’s about image. A dirty or dim machine makes the hotel look cheap. A clean, organized machine blends in with the space and reflects positively on both you and the business.

Consider stocking a few travel essentials if your machine has room—things like mini deodorant, toothbrush kits, or feminine hygiene products. These aren’t huge sellers, but when a guest needs one, it creates real value. You become a hero at 11 p.m. when nothing else is open.

When I negotiate with hotel owners, I always point out that a vending machine can reduce complaints. Instead of guests calling the front desk late at night asking for water or snacks, they help themselves. That means fewer interruptions and better reviews.

During the holidays or summer travel seasons, I increase my stock of family-friendly items like juice boxes, Goldfish, and trail mix. These sell well when kids are around. For business-heavy hotels, I stick to coffee drinks, energy bars, and light snacks that cater to adults.

I’ve found that combo vending machines with both drinks and snacks almost always outperform single-item machines in hotel settings. Guests like having options. They’re more likely to grab a drink and a snack together than just one or the other.

When I first started, I was hesitant to stock premium snacks because of the higher cost. But in hotels, guests are willing to spend a little more for convenience. Items like KIND bars, Smartwater, or Starbucks coffee drinks tend to sell well even with a higher price tag.

Some hotel lobbies have tight spaces, so always measure first. I bring a tape measure on my initial visit and take photos of the proposed location. This saves time when it’s time to move the machine in. You don’t want to show up with a unit that doesn’t fit the layout.

Lastly, always have your business license and liability insurance ready. Some hotels, especially chains or franchised properties, require paperwork before approving a vending agreement. Being prepared gives you credibility and increases your chance of sealing the deal.

How to Set Up a Vending Machine in a Hotel or Motel Lobby