Do I get a share of the vending machine revenue?
Some locations earn a commission on vending sales and some do not. Understanding how operators calculate it puts you in a much better position to negotiate.
How commission is calculated
Commission is normally a percentage of gross sales, paid monthly or quarterly. Rates commonly range from the mid single digits to the low twenties, and the number depends almost entirely on volume. High-volume locations command higher percentages because the operator's fixed route cost is spread across more sales.
Be careful with percentages quoted on net rather than gross, because net can be defined in ways that shrink your check considerably. Ask which one is being used.
When you will and will not qualify
Locations that clearly qualify: large apartment communities, busy gyms, high-throughput car washes, big warehouses, and retail centers with strong common-area traffic.
Locations that usually do not: small and mid-size offices, low-volume waiting rooms, and any site where the machine barely justifies the route stop. In those cases the amenity itself is the value.
Why commission is not always what you want
Commission comes out of the same margin that funds product pricing and service frequency. In some cases, taking a lower commission in exchange for lower prices to your employees or residents is the better outcome, especially for offices where the point is employee satisfaction rather than income.
Decide which one you actually want before you negotiate, because you generally cannot maximize both.
Related questions
- What is a typical vending commission rate?
- It varies widely by volume. Low-volume sites often get none; very high-volume sites can reach the low twenties as a percentage of gross sales.
- How often is commission paid?
- Monthly or quarterly, with a sales report attached. Always ask for the report.
- Can I trade commission for lower prices?
- Often yes, and for employee-facing break rooms it is frequently the better trade.
Keep reading
Does a free vending machine really cost nothing?
RequirementsHow much foot traffic do I need to qualify for a vending machine?
ProcessWho stocks, services, and repairs the machine?
RequirementsWhat are the electrical and space requirements?
ComplianceADA requirements for vending machine placement
ComplianceCalifornia vending machine permits and health department rules
Costs & termsVending placement agreement terms, explained
ProcessHow long does vending machine installation take?
Get free placement where you are
We place, stock, and service the machine at no cost to the host business.
Find out if your location qualifies
Four questions, an instant answer, and no obligation. If your location does not qualify, we will tell you straight away instead of scheduling a call to say it later.