Frequently Asked Questions About Smart Vending
Everything you need to know about our free, fully managed smart vending machines — from costs and installation to technology and products.
Cost & Pricing
How much does a smart vending machine cost?
With EM Smart Vending, there is no cost to you. We supply, install, stock, and maintain every machine at our expense. You do not pay for the machine, the installation, the products we stock, the restocking visits, or the maintenance. Our fully managed smart vending service is completely free for qualifying locations across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Northamptonshire.
Are there any hidden fees or charges?
No. There are no hidden fees, no small print, and no surprise charges. We do not charge installation fees, delivery fees, rental fees, maintenance fees, restocking fees, or any other kind of fee. Our business model is built entirely on revenue from the products sold inside the machine.
How does EM Smart Vending make money if the machine is free?
We earn revenue from the products sold inside each machine. Every time someone taps their card and picks up a drink, snack, or meal, that sale generates income for us. As long as the machine is in a location with enough regular footfall, the product sales cover our costs and generate a sustainable return. You provide the space and a power socket. We provide everything else.
Getting Started
How do I get a free vending machine for my business?
Simply contact our team by phone on 07795 957 418 or email info@emsmartvending.com to arrange a free, no-obligation site survey. We will visit your premises, assess the best location, and discuss your product preferences. Most businesses are up and running within two to three weeks. Read our guide on how to get a free vending machine.
What are the requirements for installation?
The main requirements are a suitable indoor location with enough footfall (at least 30-50 people daily), a standard 13-amp power socket, and enough physical space (approximately 70cm wide by 75cm deep by 180cm tall). The machine needs to be on a level floor, indoors, away from direct sunlight.
How long does installation take?
Installation typically takes less than one hour. Our team delivers the machine, positions it, connects it to power, loads the initial stock, and tests the payment system — all in a single visit. No structural work, no plumbing, no specialist wiring required.
Do I need to sign a long-term contract?
We typically ask for an initial agreement period to cover our investment, but we do not lock you into unreasonable long-term contracts. The terms are transparent and fair. Get in touch and we’ll walk you through everything.
What areas do you cover?
We serve businesses across Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, and Northamptonshire — including Bedford, Luton, Milton Keynes, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, Watford, Stevenage, Hemel Hempstead, St Albans, Northampton, Kettering, Wellingborough, and Corby. See our full list of service areas.
Technology & Products
What is a smart vending machine?
A smart vending machine is a modern, AI-powered vending solution. Unlike traditional coil-based machines, our smart fridges allow customers to open the door, pick up products, and pay by contactless card or mobile device. They feature a 21-inch interactive touchscreen, real-time inventory tracking, remote monitoring, and intelligent stock management. Learn more on our smart vending machines page.
What payment methods do your machines accept?
Our machines accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, contactless debit cards, contactless credit cards, and chip-and-PIN cards. They are fully cashless — no coins needed. The payment terminal is PCI-compliant and processes transactions securely in seconds.
What products can you stock?
We stock chilled drinks, snacks, confectionery, sandwiches, wraps, salads, fresh fruit, protein bars, energy drinks, water, juices, and more. The open-fridge format means we’re not limited by traditional vending coil constraints. The range is tailored to your site and preferences.
Can we choose which products are stocked?
Absolutely. We work with every host site to tailor the selection. We also use sales data from the machine’s AI system to continuously refine the range — replacing underperforming products and increasing popular ones.
Do you offer healthy vending options?
Yes, healthy vending is central to what we do. We offer fresh fruit, salads, protein bars, nuts, low-sugar drinks, coconut water, smoothies, and other nutritious options. Many clients — particularly offices, gyms, and care homes — specifically request health-focused ranges.
Service & Maintenance
How often do you restock?
Most machines are restocked at least once or twice per week. High-traffic locations may be visited more frequently. Our remote monitoring tracks real-time stock levels so we know exactly what needs replenishing and when.
What happens if the machine breaks down?
Our remote monitoring system usually detects issues before you notice. Most fixes can be applied remotely. For hardware issues requiring a site visit, our maintenance team attends promptly at no charge.
Who is responsible for cleaning?
We clean the machine interior and exterior during every scheduled restocking visit. It’s part of our fully managed service.
Can you monitor the machine remotely?
Yes. All machines have remote monitoring providing real-time data on stock levels, sales, temperature, and machine health. This allows proactive restocking and faster fault resolution.
Specific Use Cases
Can you install in residential buildings?
Yes. We provide smart vending for luxury apartments, build-to-rent developments, and student accommodation. A machine in a communal area is a genuine amenity that enhances the resident experience.
Do you provide machines for warehouses with night shifts?
Absolutely. Warehouses with round-the-clock operations are ideal for our machines. Night shift workers often have no access to canteens or shops — a well-stocked smart vending machine becomes essential welfare provision.
Can the machine display promotional content?
Yes. The 21-inch interactive touchscreen can display promotional content, internal communications, health and safety messaging, or branded visuals alongside the product interface. Contact us to discuss how the display can work for your business.
Still have questions? Call us on 07795 957 418 or email info@emsmartvending.com — we’re always happy to help.