The wheels on the Northwestern's can be confusing. I guess you just have to use them often to figure it out. This rack I got has 3 cans on the bottom for caps, all a quarter vend. One vends the acorn cap, the other vends the round cap and the other does neither. They look similiar but not exactly. :-\
If they will not identify themselves or return you phone call I say BS Sounds very low rent operation to me. I would speak with your contact at this store and maybe you can become their corporate vendor. Then don't forget your friends on VENDiscuss
Had the same exact thing happen at a clothing store... turned out to be the jackass with a machine next to mine. Call the number and then verify with the store owner. I would want to see the contract as well; the veribage should state some kind of exclusivity.
IMO it will take 3-5 years to be able to make a living by organically growing your business. The best way to do it is like T-Bird and others did; buy a good route or two and grow that way. Gotta have capital behind you. If not it is part time or a hobby (and hobbies can be expensive )
Not only do we all go thru it but I think it is part of our path to success. Learn from each failure; where we put our equipment is so important. Hang in there it is all part of the process.