Newbie Questions

[cyberkiller]

Been reading the forums a lot, thanks for all your great posts!

 

So I am competely new to vending and want to get my feet wet. After looking through the forums it seems like I should go with single machines (Much appreciate this tip I was looking at three head machines) and to order directly from oakmfg, I will also be doing gumballs to start.

 

First question, Where should I buy the stands? Looking to maybe just start out with two machines / two different locations, factory refurbished vista machines for $39 I see on oakmfg's site, however I see nothing about single stands to put them on? I'm assuming oakmfg sells stands for them? Should I buy from oakmfg or somewhere else?

 

Second question, What is the going fair rate for vending placement? Is a percentage based commission with the store owner the norm?

 

Any other tips or advice for a beginner is greatly appreciated

 

Thanks!

[BouncyBalls]

I have 16 black pipe stands. $15 each (+ship) but heavy to ship.

I have 16 black pipe stands. $15 each (+ship) but heavy to ship.

If you were to buy all I would sell for $200+ship

Going rate is 25%-30% commission in most areas. Single head gumballs is a very very good way to start.

[PerformaVending]

For stands, barring the need for anything fancy, your best value will be the guys around the forums here. The next best place to get them would be a company like LYPC whenever they go on sale again, but that could be awhile.

 

There's a ton of advice for newbies around here, but the one thing I'd advise right off the bat is to locate/place your equipment yourself. It's pretty much vital in this day and age to know how to do it, as you can't run a business successfully if you're constantly waiting on locators, no matter how good. By setting up your deals yourself you build a better relationship with your locations, can land far better locations than a phone locator is typically going to be able to do, and best of all, it's pretty much free.

 

You might also consider your charity options if you're doing straight gum- depending on the loc there may be more meat left on the bone for you if you're with one of them rather than a commission. Read up on both and see which one (or combination of the two) will work best for you.

 

Finally, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are very few of us in here who bite.

 

Good Luck!