Mr. Günter Maas, Country Manager D/A/CH for Vendon and Coges (Azkoyen Payment Group), has shared his assessment of the vending industry with Vending Report. His conclusion is clear: those who invest in the right vending technologies will not only increase their revenue but also significantly reduce their operating costs. The message is simple—seize opportunities now and benefit in the long term.

While it may sound like an overused phrase—Friedrich Schiller said it over 200 years ago—it is more relevant than ever: Those who do not keep up with the times will be left behind.

The vending industry at a turning point

The vending machine industry is at a crucial juncture. While some companies are still struggling with the aftermath of the pandemic, others are discovering new opportunities through technological innovations and smart investments. But which strategies are truly worthwhile right now?

Classifying the fragmented German vending market is a challenge in itself. Broadly speaking, the market can be divided into three groups. Operators with an aging machine base are often still recovering from the effects of the pandemic, raising the critical question of whether they should invest in new vending machines, cashless payment systems, telemetry, or all of these at once—despite potential staff shortages. In contrast, newcomers adopt the latest vending technology from the outset but face market saturation. The traditional operator group, which has consistently embraced smart vending solutions, is well-positioned and should stay on this path.

Why telemetry is no longer optional

One thing is certain: technological progress has transformed the vending industry. Any company that has not yet invested in vending telemetry should do so urgently. Real-time telemetry enables precise analysis of vending machines, consumer behavior, and product assortment, making route planning more efficient and reducing operational costs. At the same time, it allows businesses to identify new growth opportunities more effectively.

For those who still believe they can continue to ignore smart vending telemetry, the reality is clear: invest in bill acceptors for at least 30% of your machine base. There is no faster or easier way to achieve an ROI of up to 15% on total revenue.

The ROI of telemetry in vending operations

When it comes to long-term competitiveness, vending telemetry is the key to success. Businesses that continue relying on traditional methods risk losing ground. The case of Der Kaffeemax, which reduced operational costs by over 30% through the use of vending telemetry, is a prime example of how IoT-driven vending solutions can drive efficiency and profitability. The capital saved can be strategically reinvested into cashless payment solutions, interactive vending screens, or advanced vending management tools.

The future of vending: smart, digital, and profitable

The vending industry has undergone a massive transformation in recent years and is now technologically on par with other sectors. Data-driven vending solutions powered by IoT connectivity are no longer optional but essential for sustainable growth. Those who invest and embrace digitalization will maintain their competitive edge. Those who don’t will struggle to keep up.

The choice is clear: adapt and grow or get left behind.