What To Do When Your Vending Machine Runs Out of Stock

Running a vending machine business can truly be a relatively easy and highly profitable venture. You stock it up, sit back, and watch as the coins roll in—but what happens when your vending machine runs out of stock?

It’s a common situation that every operator will confront at some point. While it might initially seem like a testament to your business success—after all, high demand depletes stock—it can quickly become a challenge if not handled quickly. To keep your business’s momentum, review what to do when your vending machine runs out of stock.

Check Your Inventory To See What Is Low or Empty

Routine inventory checks aren’t just about identifying what's out of stock; they’re about understanding your customers' preferences. When you notice a trend of items frequently running out, take note—these are your best sellers.

Keeping a close eye on these patterns will prevent you from suddenly running out of popular items and provide insight into your customers' tastes. Make it a part of your daily routine to check your vending machine inventory and keep a log to ensure you're always in the loop, ready to refill before stock runs out.

It's also crucial to regularly audit your purchasing and replenishment process. Examining your sales data will give you valuable insights that will help you determine optimum reorder points and order quantities.

Order Replacement Stock Right Away

An empty shelf not only means lost sales but can also be a turn-off for your regular customers. The most important thing to do when your vending machine runs out of stock is to pick up the phone or hop online to place an order with your supplier.

This might mean you're ordering weekly or even more frequently for those best-selling items, but it's a small task that plays a big role in maintaining your business's success. You may also want to consider having a backup supplier so that you have another option to fall back on if one supplier can't meet your demand.

Upsell or Cross-Sell Alternative Items

Upselling or cross-selling can be a lifesaver when certain items run out. This technique is about showcasing similar or complementary products your customers might enjoy. For instance, if your machine runs out of a popular chocolate bar, why not advertise a similar treat in its place?

Or, if a favorite beverage is currently unavailable, suggest a different drink that's equally refreshing and delicious. This keeps your sales volume up and introduces your customers to new products they might not have tried otherwise.

Let Customers Know When To Expect Refills

When items run out, it's important to inform your customers about the situation and manage their expectations. You can easily do this by posting a friendly, apologetic notice on the machine, mentioning the out-of-stock item with an estimated date for when it will be restocked.

Ultimately, this helps maintain trust and transparency with your customers. After all, they'll appreciate being kept in the loop and knowing when they can expect their favorite snack or drink to be available again.

A critical aspect of keeping your vending machine stocked and your customers satisfied is having a supplier you can rely on. Top Choice Vending is one of Georgia's most experienced and dedicated vending service companies. We’re dedicated to ensuring your machines are always stocked with high-quality, fresh, and popular products.