In the vending industry, your success is largely determined before you even plug in your machine. While the excitement of landing a new contract is real, not all locations are created equal. In fact, the wrong spot can cost you more in maintenance, fuel, and wasted inventory than it generates in revenue.

At ASI, we believe that with hard work and strategic scouting, a vending route can be a great source of additional income. However, true growth comes from knowing when to walk away. Here is our "No" Checklist of five red flags you should never ignore.

1. The "Ghost" Hallway

Foot traffic is the lifeblood of vending. A long, quiet corridor might seem like a peaceful spot for a machine, but "ghost" hallways lead to sitting stock. If people only pass by once or twice a day, your products will reach their expiration dates before they reach a customer. You need consistent eyes and hungry bellies to maintain a healthy turnover.

2. The Hidden Corner

Visibility is your best marketing tool. If your machine is tucked behind a staircase, hidden in a back alcove, or placed "out of the way" by a facility manager, your sales will suffer. "Out of sight, out of mind" is a death sentence in this business. High-traffic breakrooms or main entrances are the gold standard for placement.

3. The Vandalism Magnet

A machine in an unsecured, unmonitored, or poorly lit area is a liability. Whether it’s a high-crime neighborhood or simply a spot without camera coverage or staff presence, the cost of repairs and stolen inventory can quickly exceed your profit margins. Protecting your refurbished vending machines is just as important as stocking them.

4. The "Short Shifter"

Size matters when it comes to employee counts. Unless a location has high transient traffic (like a busy hospital waiting room), a site with fewer than 40–50 full-time employees rarely justifies the logistics of a route stop. Between the fuel costs and the time spent restocking, low-population businesses often result in a net loss for the operator.

5. The Competitive Overload

Convenience is your primary selling point. However, if a location offers free snacks to employees or is located directly next door to a 24-hour convenience store, your competitive advantage disappears. Always scout the surrounding area for "freebies" or micromarkets that could cannibalize your sales.

Build Your Route on Data, Not Guesses

Efficient routing and clear location data reduce wasted time, lower operating costs, and improve overall vending route performance.

Avoiding these headaches allows you to focus your energy on high-performing locations that actually move the needle. Success in this industry takes dedication, and we are here to ensure you don't waste that effort on the wrong spot.

At ASI, we provide more than just top-tier hardware; we offer expert guidance and location evaluation tips to help you grow a sustainable business. Ready to invest in equipment that works as hard as you do? Contact our team at ASI today to get started with the right strategy and the right machines.