Originally featured in VIBE Magazine, Issue 1, August 2025
Contributions by Matt Genova, Naturals2Go Start-up Consultant
If you’re entering “vending” also known as unattended retail as a business venture, we are confident that starting with a traditional vending combo machine, like Natural2Go MVP equipment, is hands-down the best place to start.
It’s the fastest, lowest-risk way to learn operations and find a path to a successful business – all while keeping paths open to smart coolers, micro markets, pantry service, and office coffee service for those who want a business model that can scale and grow.
Why start with a combo?
- Broad fit. Works in the most locations; fewer policy/space hurdles.
- Faster breakeven. Lower capex; proven, durable hardware.
- Simpler ops. Easy parts, service, and training.
- One footprint, two categories. Snacks + cold drinks together.
- High security. Theft and product loss is minimal.
- Consumer comfort and ease. Familiar, easy payment options yield spending.
- Best Employee. An MVP machine with smart technology and remote management built in does most of the work while you grow your business.
- Learn while launching: practice product sourcing, storage, shelf-life, customer tastes/trends, customer service with first equipment is easy and low risk.
Where do AI and Smart coolers fit?
Other kinds of vending certainly have appeal but not all are a one-size fits-most like a combo vending machine. “AI” or smart coolers work best in controlled, closed-door spaces that are secure. They have more support needs: user friction with scan-to-open and real-world billing accuracy (~92%) means, as a business operator, you run a higher risk of losses and at this time, more consumer confusion of how it works.
Straightforward starting point, scalable business plan.
- Start with 6 or more combination vending machines – your BEST employees.
- Build great rapport with business/customers using machines. Collect feedback.
- Monitor vending and troubleshoot through remote management tools from your phone or computer.
- Optimize your products– use advice from other operators and the Naturals2Go team to refine your successes.
- Establish flow and skill in the vending model with traditional combination machines.
- Grow with more vending, AI coolers or a Micro Market when your industry knowledge is ready.
With Natural2Go, support for everything you need is built in, from machines to learning how to do the business and run the machines to technical support and business advice once you get going.
When you start with a simple but proven system, you can then expand thoughtfully in ways that are meaningful to your life and goals.
Learn more about starting a business that belongs in a robust and growing industry at: naturals2go.com/perfect-business.
Learn more about the industry at namanow.org.
