How to Make Money With … Vending machines

You can also listen to this podcast on iono.fm here.

Vending machines might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about side hustles, but they probably should be.

In this episode of How to Make Money With …, Ryk van Niekerk speaks with Graeme Keshwar, CEO of Vending Solutions, to explore how these everyday machines have quietly become a profitable business for many South Africans.

It’s a business that has come a long way from the days of coins and stuck packets of chips. Thanks to card readers and real-time tracking, today’s machines are smarter, easier to manage, and more reliable than ever before.

And the best part? They often work while you don’t.

Keshwar breaks down who’s getting involved – students, retirees, stay-at-home parents – and how they’re making it work. He also touches on the kinds of products people are vending today, from snacks and personal protective equipment to phone chargers and even hosiery at airports.

The machines themselves are often placed in offices, schools and public spaces – and in the right location can pay for themselves within a few years.

While this isn’t a get-rich-quick story, Keshwar does share some encouraging numbers around profit margins and long-term returns. He also offers practical tips for anyone interested in starting, including how to pick the right location, what to expect in terms of maintenance, and how digital payment systems have made cash-handling almost a thing of the past.

The episode presents a thoughtful overview of what it takes to get started in vending without overselling the idea. If you’re looking for a manageable side business with low overheads and steady potential, it’s well worth a listen.

Tune into the full podcast for all the insights and ideas – it might just open up a new income stream you hadn’t considered.

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