Gym vending machine commission: what is fair and how to structure it

The quick answer

Most gyms land at 10 to 15 percent of gross receipts or a flat site fee of 150 to 300 dollars per month per machine. Pick the model that is easiest to run and measure. If you hate monthly reports, take a flat fee.

Commission models that work

1) Percentage of gross receipts

• Typical range: 10 to 15 percent of sales before tax.

• Pay monthly with a one page sales summary.

• Good when you expect steady traffic and want upside.

Tier option
12 percent up to 3,000 dollars in sales, 15 percent above that. Keeps both sides aligned.

2) Flat monthly site fee

• 150 to 300 dollars per month for a single soda and snack machine.

• Simple. No reports. Predictable income for the gym.

• Revisit after 60 days if sales beat expectations.

3) Hybrid

• Higher of a flat minimum or percent of sales.

• Example: 200 dollars or 12 percent, whichever is higher.

4) Staff credits instead of cash

• Operator funds 100 to 300 dollars in member or staff credits each month.

• Good for small gyms that value perks over small checks.

Example math for a 24 hour gym

Assume one machine with cans, bottles, and chips. Average vend price 1.75. About 1,600 vends in a month.

• Gross receipts: 2,800 dollars

• 12 percent commission: 336 dollars paid to the gym

• Flat 250 dollars fee looks fine if you want no paperwork

• Hybrid 200 or 12 percent pays 336 dollars since it beats the floor

If you add energy drinks or premium items and push average price to 2.25, the same traffic becomes 3,600 dollars gross and 432 dollars at 12 percent.

What drives the number up or down

• Foot traffic and staffed hours. Higher headcount and true 24 hour access support a higher rate.

• Product mix. Energy drinks and protein sell but cost more. Margins vary.

• Power and space. Near an outlet and on level ground keeps operator costs down.

• Exclusivity. If you block other vendors on site, expect a better offer.

• Two machines vs one. More doors mean more sales and better terms.

Simple contract terms you actually need

Keep it to one page. Bullet format. Plain language.

• License to place one vending machine at [location].

• Term and exit. 60 day pilot. Either party can end with 7 days notice during pilot.

• Compensation. Pick one model above. Pay by ACH by the 10th for the prior month.

• Reporting. If percent, send total vends, gross receipts, tax collected, commission due.

• Service. Stocking 1 to 2 times per week. Same day response for outages.

• Power and placement. 120V outlet within 6 feet. Clear path.

• Relocation. Either party can request moving the unit to a better spot on site.

• Liability. Operator insures the machine. Gym provides reasonable security and access.

• Exclusivity. Gym will not add competing machines during the term without consent.

Taxes and fees to be aware of

• Vended items are taxable. Operator handles that.

• If you choose a flat site fee, the property owner may treat it as taxable commercial rent. Confirm with your accountant or the property manager.

How to avoid headaches

• Ask for monthly ACH only. No checks.

• Set a single point of contact for keys and after hours access.

• Put the machine where cameras cover it and traffic flows past it.

• Approve a price range up front so the operator can adjust for costs without a meeting.

• Review sales after 60 days and adjust the deal if needed.

When a micro market beats a basic vending machine

If your busiest shift has 30 or more people or you want more selection, a compact micro market usually sells more. Commission terms are similar to percent of sales or a site fee. The difference is the experience and the basket size.

Want a simple number for your gym. Request a quick site check and we will quote a flat fee or a percentage based on your traffic.