The world of vape vending machines offers a convenient way to cater to adult vapers on the go. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right products for your machine can be a challenge. We want to explain to you the two most popular categories: pod systems and disposable vapes. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses will help you curate a selection that keeps your customers coming back for more.
Pod Systems Create Repeat Business and Offer Variety
For vapers seeking customization and value, pod systems are a solid choice. These compact devices consist of a rechargeable battery and refillable pods. Users purchase e-liquid flavors of their choice and fill the pods themselves.
Benefits of Pod Systems for Vending Machines:
- Variety is King: Pods come in a vast array of flavors and nicotine strengths. This allows you to cater to a broader customer base, attracting vapers with diverse preferences.
- Repeat Business Booster: The refillable nature of pods encourages repeat purchases. Once a customer invests in a pod system, they'll return to your vending machine for additional e-liquids.
- Durable Investment: Unlike disposables, pod systems are built for long-term use. With proper care, they can last for months or even years. This reduces waste and promotes environmental consciousness.
- The Power of Choice: Vapers can adjust nicotine strength and flavor profiles by choosing different e-liquids. This allows for a more personal vaping experience.
- Profit Potential: E-liquids for pod systems are sold at higher margins compared to disposable vapes. This translates to increased profit potential for your vending machine business.
Drawbacks of Pod Systems for Vending Machines:
- Higher Initial Cost: Compared to disposables, pod systems require an upfront investment in the device itself. This could deter some customers seeking a quick and easy vaping experience. It's not as beginner friendly and it's not perfect for those out for a night on the town. Pods are better suited for sale in a vape shop's vending machine rather than a bar's.
- Refilling Requires Effort: Filling pods involves a bit more effort compared to using disposables. This might put off customers who want something more convenient.
- Maintenance Needs: Pod systems require occasional cleaning and maintenance, such as replacing coils. It's like working on your own car, it's something you have to be really into before you want to spend a lot of time doing it.
Disposable Vapes Offer Simple Convenience on the Go
For vapers seeking a no-fuss experience, disposable vapes are a perfect choice. They're also great for someone who left their pods at home. These pre-filled devices contain a battery and e-liquid, requiring no maintenance or refilling. Once it's out of e-liquid, the entire device is disposed of.
Benefits of Disposable Vapes for Vending Machines:
- Effortless Use: Disposables are incredibly user-friendly. Simply remove the device from the package and start vaping. No setup, mess, or maintenance is required.
- Convenience King: Disposables are ideal for on-the-go vaping. Their compact size makes them easy to carry, and they require no charging or refilling.
- Variety for Everyone: Similar to pods, disposables come in a wide range of flavors and nicotine strengths. No matter what the customer wants, they can find a vape that's right for them.
- Lower Barrier to Entry: The affordability of disposables makes them easier to try compared to pod systems. This can be attractive to new vapes or those seeking a temporary option. We at VapeTM also supply disposable vapor products at wholesale prices to vending machine hosts.
- Reduced Damage Risk: Disposables are designed for single use. This reduces the risk of leaks or malfunctions common with refillable devices.
Drawbacks of Disposable Vapes for Vending Machines:
- Lower Profit Margins: Compared to pod systems and e-liquids, disposable vapes can have lower profit margins. This isn't always the case and the volume you sell can outweigh any difference in margins.
- Limited Customization: Disposables offer pre-filled flavors and nicotine strengths. Customers can't change their vaping experience but this doesn't matter to most casual vapers.
- Environmental Impact: Due to their single-use nature, disposables create more waste compared to refillable pod systems. This has been a big highlight for many recently with a new disposable that has a touch screen on it. While many disposables are rather simple designs, letting so many screens and semiconductors end up in landfills isn't ideal.
Choosing the Right Mix for Your Venue Is All About Location
The ideal product mix for your vape vending machine will depend on several factors, including your location and target audience. Here are some major considerations:
- High-Traffic Venues: Locations with high foot traffic might prioritize convenience with a focus on disposables. They offer a quick and easy vaping solution for customers on the go. Someone at a bar or gas station might just want a no-hassle disposable vape.
- Entertainment Venues: Bars, nightclubs, or entertainment venues might attract vapers seeking a specific flavor profile or nicotine strength. Offering a mix of pod systems and disposables allows customers to choose based on their needs.
- Vape Shops: Vape shops can likely lean more towards pods as you won't have as many casual vapers coming through the store. Larger tower vending machine models will be able to hold plenty of both pods and disposables.
Embrace Customer Needs and Stay Informed
The vape industry is constantly evolving. As a venue owner with a vape vending machine, staying informed about the latest trends and regulations is crucial. Consider customer feedback to understand their preferences and adjust your product selection accordingly. By offering a well-curated mix of pod systems and disposables, you can cater to your customers' needs and ensure that your machine is consistently moving product for you. The upfront cost of a machine is quickly outweighed by the income it offers. If you're interested in becoming a vape vending machine host, contact our team at VapeTM today!