Hey there, Vendpreneur!

Welcome to Becoming a Vendpreneur—where every week I help you navigate the challenges of running a vending machine business, whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your operation.

This week, I’m sharing 5 proven ways to grow from 1 vending machine to 10.

• Step 1: Reinvest your profits

• Step 2: Use connections to land more locations

• Step 3: Buy refurbished machines to save money

• Step 4: Raise capital for faster growth

• Step 5: Explore financing options to expand smartly

🔗 Best Links

Curated picks for Vendpreneurs

📱 Top Reads

• Vending machines vs. grocery stores: who wins in product placement and pricing? (Forbes)

• A fresh take on gumball vending machines. Are they still profitable? (Twitter/X)

😱 Trending Now

• Pringles can vending machine? Japan keeps winning with the coolest machines. (TikTok)

• Remember this vintage Coca-Cola vending machine? Would you buy from it again? (TikTok)

Growing your vending business isn’t hard; most people just do it wrong.

If you’re stuck wondering how to afford more machines or afraid of failing, you’re overcomplicating it.

What if I told you there’s a smarter, faster way to grow?

In this post, I’ll break down exactly how to go from one vending machine to ten. 👇

# 1: Reinvest Your Profits

The easiest way to scale from 1 machine to 10 is by reinvesting the profits from your first machine.

When my first machine made $6,000 a month, I didn’t spend it all. I set aside a portion to fund my next one.

I broke my earnings into three parts: 1.) stocking products, 2.) maintaining machines, and 3.) saving for expansion.

By consistently saving 30-50% of profits, I was able to buy another machine in just a few months.

Repeat this process, and you’ll grow steadily!

# 2: Use Connections to Grow Fast

Once I landed my first few locations, I used those connections to grow even faster.

For example, a bar owner in Austin introduced me to a Dallas bar owner who had four locations.

Just like that, I added four more machines.

I can’t stress this enough: ask for referrals. Happy clients will introduce you to other business owners if you just ask.

It’s one of the easiest ways to expand (nothing is better than a warm intro).

# 3: Buy Refurbished Machines to Save Money

Scaling doesn’t mean buying brand-new machines every time. Here’s how refurbished machines can help:

• Cut costs. Refurbished machines cost significantly less than new ones, letting you save thousands.

• Find quality used options. Check local suppliers, online marketplaces, or businesses selling their machines.

• Upgrade if needed. Even if you invest in small upgrades like card readers, refurbished machines are still cheaper.

P.S. I’ve posted about why I always prefer refurbished vending machines over new ones. Read my deep dive here.

# 4: Raise Capital When You Need It

I realized early on that I couldn’t scale on my own. So, I raised $550,000 from friends and family to buy 80 machines.

With that funding, I expanded to 8 new locations every month. I even partnered with a factory in Charlotte to keep up with demand.

If you’re serious about growing, don’t be afraid to raise money or bring in partners. It can make all the difference!

# 5: Explore Financing Options

Scaling your vending business doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Financing options like small business loans or rental programs let you grow without the upfront cost.

In fact, I’ve secured a deal with a lender, cutting out the $5,000+ cost of new smart machines.

Future Pod Plug franchisees and Vending Machine LaunchPad members can now rent a machine for $120/month or less. 💰

This makes starting or scaling your vending business more affordable than ever.

And That’s a Wrap!

Thanks for reading this week’s newsletter.

Hit reply and let me know what you found most helpful this week—I read every single reply and I’d love to hear from you!

See you next Saturday!

-Ethan

Before you go, here are 2 ways I can help you get started in vending:

1.) Pod Plug Franchise - With a super low-cost entry franchise, you’ll get three smart machines, starting inventory, and hands-on training. Join the waitlist!

2.) Nayax - Add cashless payments to your machines with Nayax card readers. Use my promo code “ETHANPROMO” for a nice little discount.