TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As the summer heat rises, vending machines offer a convenient and quick way to hydrate. These machines now feature more personalized options, ranging from cold popsicles to hot ramen.
Weng Hung-lin, a manager at a smart vending machine company, noted, "We can now include everything from popsicles and drinks to freshly brewed coffee."
In Taiwan, most vending machines are owned by beverage companies and convenience stores, but they are also becoming popular in the US, attracting many 9-5 workers as investors.
This business model, which is both cost-effective and simple, has drawn numerous individuals seeking to augment their income. For approximately US$1,500, one can purchase a used vending machine, around NT$49,000, according to industry statistics.
The National Automatic Merchandising Association reports the US has about 3 million vending machines, each averaging US$525 in monthly revenue.
The vending machine industry, valued at US$18.2 billion, primarily consists of part-time operators. "This is a very clever way to pocket the difference and the so-called advantage of a special geographic location," said Soochow University Associate Professor Ou Su-hua.
With the industry's growth, many are integrating AI to develop smarter machines that manage temperatures and monitor operations, ensuring efficiency.
As unmanned systems become more common, owners must consider local cultures and lifestyles to keep attracting customers.
