Thinking of Buying a Vending Machine Business in Australia? Here Are 3 Vital Questions to Ask
The Australian gaming and vending machine manufacturing industry generated $530 million in revenue in 2025, with vending machines accounting for a growing share of this total. While gaming machines still dominate, vending has become an increasingly important revenue stream due to lighter regulation and expanding consumer demand for convenient, automated retail.
Industry revenue is forecast to grow modestly at 0.3% annually through 2030, reaching $538.7 million. Growth opportunities for vending machine operators will come from cashless payments, healthy snack offerings, and installation in new locations such as gyms, workplaces, hospitals, and transport hubs.
1. Is the Business Financially Sustainable?
Why It Matters
Vending machine operations are attractive due to relatively low overheads, but profitability depends on product selection, location strength, and cost efficiency. Imported machines—particularly from China—dominate the local market, creating pricing pressures for Australian operators.
Well-managed vending businesses can achieve solid margins through smart product choices and technology-driven efficiency.
What to Check
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Revenue mix – Review whether machines are stocked with traditional snacks and drinks, or diversified offerings such as healthy products, personal care, or electronics.
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Cost base – Assess exposure to machine imports, repair and servicing, and site rental agreements.
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Profit benchmarks – Compare performance with industry profit margins of 17.2%.
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Supplier arrangements – Review contracts with food and beverage suppliers for pricing and availability.
2. Does the Location and Market Position Provide an Advantage?
Why It Matters
Vending machine success is tied to location. High-traffic venues such as offices, schools, gyms, and public transport areas provide the most consistent sales. With growing demand for healthy and convenient products, operators with premium sites and adaptive product strategies are best positioned to succeed.
What to Check
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Site agreements – Verify contract lengths, rental fees, and revenue-sharing arrangements with site owners.
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Foot traffic – Assess whether the machines are positioned in high-visibility, high-demand areas like universities, CBDs, or hospitals.
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Competitive edge – Determine whether the machines stand out through pricing, unique offerings, or technology features.
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Customer experience – Confirm whether machines provide cashless payments, easy product access, and reliable service.
3. Is the Business Aligned with Industry Trends and Future Growth?
Why It Matters
Consumer demand is shifting toward healthier snacks, sustainable packaging, and fast, cashless transactions. Operators who integrate modern machines with contactless payments, real-time stock monitoring, and energy-efficient designs are positioned for growth.
The industry also benefits from the broader trend of automation and the expansion of self-service retail.
What to Check
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Technology adoption – Ensure machines support mobile payments, contactless transactions, and automated stock alerts.
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Product innovation – Review whether the business offers diversified options, such as fresh foods, healthy alternatives, or non-food products.
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Sustainability – Assess energy efficiency of machines and eco-friendly product packaging.
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Expansion opportunities – Consider potential to install machines in untapped sectors like gyms, airports, and business parks.
Ready to Invest in a Thriving Vending Machine Business?
With growing consumer demand for convenience, healthier products, and cashless technology, vending machine businesses present attractive opportunities.
Success depends on securing premium locations, managing supplier relationships, and staying ahead of industry trends in technology and consumer preferences.
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