Beverage Vending Machines Education and Training

Learn about the different aspects of the beverage vending machine industry
By Jason Wood The beverage vending machines industry is massive throughout the world. It seems that in every theme park, movie theatre, parking garage, mall or other public forum we are completely surrounded. Their products are also relatively affordable, meaning their price point is such that the average consumer won't think twice about getting a cold soda or a hot coffee for a dollar or two.

But before you jump into the industry and start calling juice vending machine distributors to place your order, there are some things you should learn first about the business overall. This means an overview of the business with a cursory knowledge in everything from how to repair them, to which strategy will bring you the most sales.

1. Find some statistics on beverage machines and their use in the United States.

2. Get an education by taking a course in everything from repair to owning vending machines to understand all aspects of the business.

3. Check out trade show expos to see the newest beverage vending machines.

Check out information about beverage vending machines

Take the time to learn information about the beverage vending machine business. What is required of a technician, what is required of an owner and the government statistics available for the field. That way you'll be able to make an informed decision about which section of the beverage vending machine industry you wish to be a part of for your career.
Try:  Check out the Department of Labor statistics on the Beverage Vending Machine industry. They provide an in-depth look on the foresight for a technician now and in the future. IBIS World also offers statistics on the industry from the perspective of owners and operators.

Take courses on beverage machines as part of your beverage vending machines education and training

Once you've determined the section of beverage vending machines you desire to work in, seek the appropriate education from a technical college or university. Technicians are advised to have a degree in electronics, while a business degree will be advisable to owners. Definitely seek out national organizations for beverage machines which offer additional courses on the latest machines in the industry.
Try:  Check out the National Automatic Merchandising Association website for training and education courses for everyone from supervisors to technicians. Each year, a course in V-commerce is taught at Michigan State University covering how technology is advancing the business of vending machines, including beverage vending machines.

Attend trade show expos that specialize in beverage machines

Once you have a foundation in the area of beverage machines, attend trade show expos for the latest and greatest in everything from juice vending machines to soda vending machines to coffee vending machines. It will keep you up-to-date with the latest technology and allow you to interact with beverage vending machine providers.
Try:  Check out the Atlantic Coast Expo website. Each year they offer educational seminars and panels on the latest vending machines, including beverage vending machines. Be sure to check back as it does take them a few months after an expo has passed to lock down their educational panel on the website. InterBev is another yearly expo which specializes in beverage vending machines. They too offer educational seminars.

• Once in the beverage machine business, look for used vending machines to place in some of your locations. You'll cut down on the cost of renting from a vending company on a monthly basis.