In the USA, vending machines cost $1,000–$10,000. Snack machines average $1,500–$4,000, drink machines $1,000–$6,000, combo machines $2,500–$7,500, and specialty or high-tech models $3,000–$10,000.
Vending Machine Costs — USA & UK
Price ranges, top brands & models, suppliers, startup checklist and local suppliers.
Overview
This guide summarizes common new vs used price ranges for vending machines in the USA and UK, shows notable models & prices, lists online distributors and local suppliers, and covers startup costs & permits.
USA — Typical Costs
New machines — ranges & notes
New: commonly $3,000–$10,000 for standard snack/drink combos; specialty/fresh/coffee machines often cost more.
Drinks (new): ~$3,500–$6,000+.
Used / Refurbished
Roughly $1,000–$6,000 depending on type and condition. Many operators start with used combos in the $1,200–$4,000 range.
UK — Typical Costs (GBP)
New prices commonly described as "several hundred pounds to several thousand". Countertop/small units can be under £100–£300, whereas full-size snack/drink units often range ~£2,000–£6,000+. Used machines are often 20–50% cheaper but may lack warranty.
Top Brands & Models
Crane BevMax series and combo lines (Merchant Combo / Shoppertron) represent higher-end combo units; example vendor listings commonly show certain BevMax models near $12,995.
Popular snack machines; dealer listings often show Mercato series around the $4–6k band depending on options.
Glass-front combo units with high channel counts; typical dealer listings for H70/H85 variants around £5.6k depending on configuration.
Where to order — Online distributors & Local suppliers
Local business
Business startup costs & permits (USA)
- Machine purchase: see ranges above. Many start with a single basic machine + stock for $2,000–$3,000.
- Initial inventory per machine: $200–$500.
- Delivery & equipment: dolly/hand truck (~$100–$300); minor repair/upgrade buffer (~10–15%).
- Licenses & permits: general business license (~$50–$150 typical); health permits if selling perishable food (~$100–$500 where required).
- Insurance: liability often ~$40–$100/month.
- Location fees: many placements are rent-free with commission (5–15%) or flat fees ($50–$200+/month) for premium locations.
Vending Machine Prices
Type of Vending Machine | Typical Price Range (USD) |
---|---|
Snack-only | $1,500 – $4,000 |
Drink / Beverage-only | $1,000 – $6,000 |
Combo (Snacks + Drinks) | $2,500 – $7,500 |
Specialty / High-tech | $3,000 – $10,000+ |