In an enlightening interview on BizTV’s “Create Build Manage” show, Heath Falzarano, the President of Naturals2Go, shared his insights on the transformative potential of entering the healthy vending industry. This discussion not only shed light on the unique business model of Naturals2Go but also highlighted the burgeoning opportunities within the vending sector, particularly in providing healthier, more diverse options to consumers.
View Part 2 of this interview here>
The Genesis of a Healthy Vending Vision
Falzarano began by explaining the inception of Naturals2Go, which was born from a simple observation: the lack of healthy choices in traditional vending machines. “I remember carting our children around from event to event and looking at all the choices that were available in vending machines, and not knowing that there were companies actually around that taught better choice vending,” he recalled.
This realization led him to Naturals2Go, a company that champions a healthier approach in the vending machine business, which Falzarano prefers to describe not just as vending but as “unattended retail self-service.” He emphasized, “We’re in the business of helping people start, run, and grow a business in the healthy vending space.”
What Does ‘Healthy Vending’ Really Mean?
Falzarano challenged the conventional image of vending machines filled with sodas and snacks. “We’re not talking apples and oranges in the vending machine right? Apples, oranges, salads, sandwiches, you name it—anything can be put in vending machines nowadays,” he said. This shift towards diverse, nutritious options is what sets Naturals2Go apart in the vending industry.
Entrepreneurial Freedom and Flexibility
One of the most appealing aspects of this venture, according to Falzarano, is the entrepreneurial freedom it offers. He outlined the benefits of being part of Naturals2Go: “This is a really interesting world for entrepreneurs nowadays because there’s a variety of options to choose from… You can build something for yourself but also pass off to your family or sell it if you want to.”
Falzarano believes that the vending industry, especially the healthy vending sector, is particularly attractive because of its low barrier to entry and flexibility. “There’s no brick and mortar, no restriction on where you could do your business. The employee really becomes the vending machine,” he explained.
Expanding Opportunities in Vending
Addressing the potential scope of vending, even in less populated areas, Falzarano noted, “There are about 7 million vending machines in the United States, and that’s comprised of about 17 to 18,000 different owner-operators… Market share is abundant, and that goes for rural spots too.”
He also shared a personal anecdote to illustrate the scale and potential of the vending industry: “I started with 20 [machines], and I talked to another operator who had about 250. He told me, ‘You couldn’t run into me if you tried,’ indicating the vast opportunities even within a single region.”
Supporting Veterans in Vending
A part of Naturals2Go’s mission involves supporting veterans. Falzarano proudly mentioned their “Vets in Vending” program, which aims to assist veterans in transitioning into business ownership within the vending industry. “We have a huge military following. They understand systems and discipline, which are crucial in this business,” he stated.
The Pathway to Entrepreneurship
Falzarano’s discussion with BizTV was more than just an interview; it was a compelling case for the viability and attractiveness of the healthy vending business. Naturals2Go not only offers a pathway to entrepreneurship but also serves as a platform for healthier consumer choices, making it a noteworthy player in the evolving landscape of the vending industry.
Tune in for Part 2 of our conversation with Heath Falzarano, where we delve deeper into the strategies and challenges of establishing a successful vending business.
And, if you’re ready to start your entrepreneurial journey, we’re here to help! Learn more about Naturals2Go and launching your own healthy vending business.
