Betson Enterprises, the amusement equipment, parts, and service distributor, has presented some insights into how vending machines can add value to a family entertainment centre, particularly in view of labour shortage issues.
According to the National Federation of Independent Business in the US, 92% of small businesses are struggling to hire the staff they need. These labour shortages can have a knock-on effect on customers, leading to longer wait times and less guest satisfaction.
Vending machines don’t solve these staffing issues. However, they can be an easy way of giving guests snack and drink options without having to add more employees, or freeing existing teams up to attend to immediate customer needs. In addition, vending can boost revenue, without adding extra overheads.
Boosting revenue
According to industry reports, the average vending machine earns $75 weekly, but well-stocked machines in high-traffic areas can make over $500 per month. This is extra income that can fund things like employee appreciation, office supplies, prizes, or anything else to improve day-to-day operations.
Inventory management is simple too. Operators can purchase goods in bulk, save money, and simply keep track of expenditures. The industry has evolved in recent years, and modern vending machines can even be baristas or markets. Larger models can offer trays and platters, while refrigerated displays can encourage at-the-counter impulse buys.
Betson’s guide to choosing the right vending machine
Betson recommends that operators invest in two vending machines to start – one for beverages and one for snacks. Speciality vending machines can be paired together for maximum dispensing and earning potential, and the firm offers a guide to the different vending machines that might suit an FEC business.
“Drink and snack machines are a great start, but remember that what’s in the vending machine is up to your creativity and marketing aspirations,” says Betson. “Want to offer branded or designer socks at your bowling alley? Go ahead. Driving gloves at your go-kart location? Sure. It’s up to you.”
Machines can accept cash, credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more. In addition, some vending units allow custom skins for either branding or additional signage, and the team at Betson can customise them with logos and more.
Recently, Betson Enterprises worked with two leading aquariums in Texas, the San Antonio Aquarium and the Houston Interactive Aquarium & Animal Preserve, to add a game room, in order to help them utilize extra space and become more all-round family fun destinations.
