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Vending machine operators seeking new features to attract consumers

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equivalent to more than one per person in countries such as Ireland or New Zealand.

And average yearly meat consumption in the US is 120kg per person. Equivalent to 1.2 tonnes per person in, say, Iceland.

Ain't statistics wonderful/meaningless?

3 ( +3 / -0 )

I was wowed by the sheer number of vending machines in Japan. It seemed like there was at least one on every street corner, sometimes a few at a time. But I was a little disappointed that they were basically all the same type machines and all sold the same drinks.

I had heard about all these high tech machines that would offer/suggest you a beverage by it recognizing your age and gender. Or those that sold umbrellas. Or ones that in emergencies not only point you in the direction of an emergency shelter, but dispense free waters. Or ones that sold ramen soup and prepared it for you, much like the ones that serve hot coffee or cocoa.

I had even heard of vending machines that sold used panties. Although I did not find what I would call a "vending machine", I did find them in capsule toy machines in front of an adult store... awkward...

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Make the products cheaper. Rarely I find drinks in the vending machine for 80-100yen anymore except for some places in the countryside. Most products are now 140-160yen and you can often buy cheaper in the convenience store.

2 ( +2 / -0 )

Putting empty cans in and coins come out?

2 ( +2 / -0 )

"Putting empty cans in and coins come out?"

What a wonderful idea! So long as no one decided to stick nothing other than an empty can in. Maybe not so much to get coins back, but partially pay for a new soda or both. I had seen a few recycling containers around them, would be a nice gesture on both parties to have all vending machines have a recycler. Maybe even have a side view of the can being crushed to amaze kids and teach people the importance of recycling.

"Make the products cheaper. Rarely I find drinks in the vending machine for 80-100yen anymore except for some places in the countryside. Most products are now 140-160yen and you can often buy cheaper in the convenience store."

This is also another good idea. If there is a convenience store near by, those vending machines should be cheaper or at least on par.

Or sell unique sodas only those vending machines can sell. Maybe include little collectables, something that would only cost the vending machine company a few cents to make, but have people coming back again and again to try and collect them all.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

Putting empty cans in and coins come out?

I have seen candy vending machines here that give you anywhere from one to five candies, depending on your luck. I thought that was brilliant, using the lure of gambling to attract more coins. Surprised it hasn't been more widely used - say one out of 10 customers gets 2 beverages instead of one - or gets a free beverage token.

0 ( +0 / -0 )

I have won 500yen and a few Free Drinks at some lottery vending machines.

Still many 100yen drink machines around here but poor selection.

Hot Food, etc vending machines can be found in Net-Cafes or similar places.

-1 ( +0 / -1 )

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