How to Get Vending Machines in Your Apartment Building
Use vending machines to generate additional revenue in your apartment complex through commissions or sales-based income.
Back to Vending for Apartments Resources
Use vending machines to generate additional revenue in your apartment complex through commissions or sales-based income.
Back to Vending for Apartments ResourcesMost vending vendors offer revenue share agreements that allow apartment buildings to earn a percentage of machine profits. Well-placed machines can generate passive income while offering a valuable amenity to residents.
Vending machines add value and convenience for apartment residents
Vendors often offer free installation and ongoing product restock
Generate extra income through commissions or revenue share
Adding vending machines to your apartment building is one of the easiest ways to provide convenience for residents while generating passive income. Whether you're a property manager for a mid-size complex or an administrator for a large community, vending can work as a low-maintenance amenity with real benefits.
Most property owners start by assessing where machines could be placed—typically in lobbies, laundry rooms, or common areas with frequent foot traffic. Choose locations that are visible, secure, and easily accessible to residents. Once a spot is selected, the next step is finding a vending machine vendor, which can be done easily through managed referral services designed to connect businesses with trusted local operators.
The good news? In many cases, you won't need to pay for installation, equipment, or upfront product inventory. Qualified locations usually receive vending services for free, as vendors typically cover costs in exchange for foot traffic and potential sales. Some vendors also offer commission programs, allowing your building to earn a percentage of vending profits based on machine performance.
Popular options include combo vending machines that offer snacks and drinks, smart tech machines with touchless payments, and even more innovative setups like AI coolers, which give a modern appeal for properties interested in upscale resident experiences. Regular servicing, restocking, and customer support are usually handled by the operator—just make sure you're working with a vendor who offers consistent uptime and product freshness.
As the vending industry evolves, more apartments are moving beyond traditional vending into smarter solutions. To explore these innovations, check out how smart cooler machines could fit modern residential spaces. Or, if you're targeting health-conscious residents, our article on healthy vending in shared spaces offers ideas for stocking wellness-friendly options.
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.
Start by identifying a high-traffic location in your building and contacting a vending provider who services apartments. Services like Vending Exchange make this easier by matching you with verified local operators.
In most cases, vending vendors provide equipment, delivery, and installation at no cost to the apartment complex, provided the location meets foot traffic requirements.
Yes. Many vending partners offer revenue share or commission-based models, allowing your property to earn passive income from machine sales.
Reliable vendors offer routine maintenance and respond quickly to service requests, ensuring machines stay in working order with minimal disruption to residents.
Combo machines with snacks and drinks are the most common, but AI coolers and smart fridges are gaining popularity in modern residential settings.
Look for vendors with positive reviews, professional service guarantees, and updated machines with contactless payment options. Referral services like Vending Exchange can help vet the right partner for your building.
Yes. Full-service vendors take care of stocking, maintenance, repairs, and even product selection based on your residents’ preferences.
Popular vending items include bottled water, energy drinks, chips, candy, protein bars, and healthier snack alternatives.
They can offer advanced inventory tracking, energy efficiency, and contactless payments—making them ideal for modern, tech-forward residences.
Choose a vendor with regular restocking schedules and responsive customer service to ensure freshness and fast resolution of any product issues.