Can You Make Money with Office Vending Machines?
Explore how offices can offset costs—or profit—by partnering with the right vending provider.
Back to Office Vending Services Resources
Explore how offices can offset costs—or profit—by partnering with the right vending provider.
Back to Office Vending Services ResourcesYes. Many vending providers offer revenue share programs based on machine usage. The more your employees or tenants use the machine, the more your business earns—typically as a percentage of sales.
Shared profit options can help offset workplace amenity costs
Smart machines with contactless pay can boost user engagement
High-traffic areas can turn vending into passive revenue
Office vending machines don’t just provide convenience—they can also generate revenue, if set up with the right provider. Many businesses install machines to offer snacks or drinks to staff and visitors, but with high-traffic locations and a solid vending partner, they can also earn commissions from each sale. Understanding how the vending business model works helps determine whether it’s a cost-saving or income-producing opportunity for your workplace.
Most vending providers offer one of two setups: full-service with free installation and restocking, or a managed agreement with potential revenue sharing. In a full-service model, the vendor retains all profits and covers all costs—making it ideal for locations that want a hands-off amenity. However, for offices with consistent foot traffic or high employee engagement, many vendors offer commission models. In these cases, the office earns a percentage (typically 5-20%) of product sales, paid out monthly or quarterly.
Of course, consistent service is key to maximizing earnings. Machines must be stocked, clean, and operational. Poor service can drive people away from using the equipment altogether. Smart vending solutions—like AI-equipped coolers or combo machines with real-time monitoring—help mitigate downtime and keep inventory fresh. Offices with forward-thinking providers often see stronger usage and better profits over time.
Even if profits aren’t the primary goal, vending machines can still indirectly save money. By offering convenient onsite snacks or beverages, companies may reduce time lost to off-site coffee runs or employee dissatisfaction. To maximize ROI, it’s essential to select machines and vendors tailored to your traffic levels, space, and usage needs.
To better understand the differences between vending setups, check out our comparison of options in the vending vs micro market guide. For locations considering additional amenities like beverage service, our article on coffee options for offices offers more cost-benefit insights.
If you're exploring vending options for your business, Vending Exchange can help simplify the process. Delivery, Installation and Equipment is provided at no cost to you - vendors provide the machines, keep them stocked, and handle all servicing. Whether you need a provider or full-service management, just fill out the form on this page to get started.
A local vendor typically services one machine or location, whereas a vending management company oversees operations across multiple vendors and locations. They handle vendor selection, performance monitoring, and customer service escalation.
Combo snack and drink machines in high-traffic areas often generate the most revenue. Newer machines with cashless payments also increase usage.
Revenue sharing is generally offered at locations that have enough foot traffic to justify the split. Smaller traffic locations often just receive free service without commission.
Depending on product mix, traffic, and provider, office commissions typically range from 5% to 20% of gross monthly sales.
Most vending agreements are simple one-page forms outlining services and commission rates. Some providers may require a formal location agreement depending on the site.
They assess daily foot traffic, office headcount, and employee interest. High usage potential increases the likelihood of commission payouts.
Yes—getting options allows you to compare service levels, commission rates, and machine types. Vending Exchange simplifies this by pre-vetting top vendors.
Most offices can begin generating income within the first month of operation—payouts typically follow on a monthly or quarterly schedule.
Yes, most vending operators welcome periodic feedback so they can better match supply to employee preferences and maximize sales.
Yes, if usage or sales remain low for an extended period, vendors may remove or replace the unit to better meet site needs.