Updated July 2025
Schools, community colleges, and universities have long been a great spot for vending machines. Busy students bustling this way and that, faculty and staff moving in and out, parents and other school visitors coming and going… there is certainly a lot of foot traffic at these locations. And with everyone on a tight schedule, many people are looking to grab a quick snack or meal in between classes. The demand for healthier snacks and grab and go foods on campus makes vending and micro markets appealing to administrators at these schools.
When school is back in session – capitalize on this great location option for healthy vending machines. Here are some inventory ideas:
Dried Fruit
Students and faculty looking for a healthy but filling snack in between courses can rely on dried fruit for a tried-and-true option. Dried fruits like apples, bananas, or pears are no-mess and delicious, so they’re perfect for eating in between classes or even during a lecture. Plus, they’re non-perishable, so they’re a good investment for your healthy vending machines.
Granola Bars
Time is often limited when students or faculty are bustling between classrooms or separate buildings. And if there’s no time to head to the school cafeteria for a full meal, a vending machine is the next best option. Granola bars and other types of snack bars are consistently high-selling options because of their portability, low-mess, and filling nature. These bars are packed full of fiber-rich foods like nuts and oats, which help us to feel fuller faster. Plus, the protein of these foods helps to keep busy students and staff fueled up for their long days.
Healthy Chips and Pretzels
Chips and pretzels are a classic snack that are always good sellers in vending machines. Go for healthier versions of potato chips to include in your machines, including ones made without a lot of excess flavoring, fats, and sodium.
Packaged Salads
There is plenty of junk food rampant on school and university campuses. Some students and staff are looking for something a little healthier. Provide it in the form of packaged salads, which make for a great snack in between classes or a full meal during lunch hour.
Drinks
Drinks are always a high seller on college and high school campuses, too. Try including coffee drinks for the late-night study groups, sports drinks for the on-campus athletes, and juices for those early-morning classes after long nights.
Get or give a smarter more satisfying snack experience.
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