Do Locations Charge for Vending Machines?

One of the biggest misconceptions about vending machines is that businesses or property owners have to pay for them to be placed on-site. In reality, the opposite is usually true—hosting a vending machine often comes at no cost to the location owner, and in many cases, it can actually generate passive income.

Do Businesses Pay to Host a Machine?

Most vending machine operators provide and maintain the machine at no cost to the location. They cover the expenses of purchasing the machine, stocking products, handling service calls, and managing cashless payment systems. The business owner simply provides space and electricity.

How Operators Make It Work

Instead of charging businesses for placement, operators typically offer a commission on sales. This means:

• No upfront cost to the business.

• Revenue share (commonly 5–20%) goes back to the host location.

• All servicing—cleaning, restocking, repairs—is handled by the operator.

Are There Exceptions?

In high-demand or premium locations, some property owners may charge a small rental or placement fee for vending rights. Examples include airports, sports stadiums, or university campuses. However, for most small businesses, offices, gyms, and retail spaces, placement is free.

The Bottom Line

Locations generally don’t pay to host a vending machine. Instead, they benefit from added convenience for customers and employees, plus a share of the sales. Partnering with a reputable operator like JetCart ensures a smooth process with modern machines, reliable service, and fair commission options.