Written by Emily on July 26, 2023

Content marketing is a key part of a successful marketing plan. It has the power to bring you new customers and build trust with those you already have. But first, you need to understand what content marketing is and how it works. Then you can use it to your best advantage in growing your breakroom services business.

What is Content Marketing?

This type of marketing aims to attract, engage, and retain breakroom service customers. How? By answering their questions and giving them the information they need. It’s helpful, solving pain points and offering a solution. That makes it valuable to your clients.

What Does It Look Like?

There’s no one way to offer content marketing. It can be done via blog posts, articles, videos, infographics, podcasts, ebooks, social media posts, and more. Most vending operators start with blogs about their services and products. These can answer a specific question a client might have, which makes it a valuable resource for them. The mention of keywords in the blog also helps with search engine optimization (SEO). It makes your site more discoverable and thus, a value to potential new clients as well. That’s a powerful benefit.

The 3 Things Content Marketing Should Do

Every piece of marketing should have a purpose. Content marketing is no different. Here are the three must-dos to make this type of marketing effective.

1. Establish Authority – Use content to show you know your business. It can be based on your experience of which products sell best in a vending machine. Or it might be how you can help human resources with a corporate wellness program by installing a micro-market. Ultimately, it’s about sharing what you know so you are the expert.
2. Generate Interest – When facility or office managers come to the internet searching for breakroom ideas, you want to be there. Sharing the products you put in the breakroom, the benefits of micro-markets, or even how to bring a cafe vibe to the office can engage and educate. The idea is that you want content that will get your client or potential client interested in your company’s services.
3. Build Trust – Through content, share answers to common problems your clients have. When a facility manager comes upon your marketing, they will find a solution and feel informed about the decision they need to make about the breakroom. That’s how content marketing can build trust. And generate qualified leads.

What You Get Out of Content Marketing

When done well, content marketing offers vending company owners a great return. The content uses service and product keywords that will boost SEO. Thus, your website and company will be easier to find and appear higher on search pages.

Another benefit is lead generation and sales. As your content is discovered via an internet search, you’ll get more prospects and more sales. Seeing all the valuable content you have online will make them trust your company and want to reach out even more, which is the point.

Finally, with customers looking to your content for answers and ideas, it will grow awareness of your company. Clients will remember your brand and your company name. You will be the provider they think of when they need a solution or move to a new company looking for refreshment services. That’s a big win!

How to Start Now

Most vending operators are full of knowledge and experience. Start sharing that in blogs, short videos, social media posts, etc. The key to making it great content marketing is to ensure it resonates with the target audience. Remember, it should address their pain points and provide a solution or valuable insight.

Want help with content marketing? VendCentral has been successfully assisting refreshment services companies to grow their marketing efforts. Content marketing is one of the many services offered. Contact VendCentral today, or call (866) 699-8363.

Written by Emily on July 12, 2023

Welcome to part 2 of our blog series on the benefits of email marketing! If you didn’t catch part 1, make sure to give it a read first to learn about the first six ways it helps your vending business succeed. If you already know how it influences business-to-business decision-makers, then you’re ready to keep reading. In this final part, we’ll focus on the power of email marketing and how it saves money for vending operators.

7. Getting Low-Cost Leads

Email marketing is a great tool for increasing leads for your sales team. It removes the need for cold calling or having a feet-on-the-ground approach. With its personalized message, you can nurture email leads and guide them through the sales funnel, virtually. In addition, you can further qualify leads so your sales team has high-value prospects that are more likely to turn into new customers.

8. Reaching the Right People

Use email marketing to target messages to specific customers. For example, talk about the ease of vending machines to the facility manager. Or tout the corporate wellness benefits of your healthy snacks program to the human resource manager. In the end, this kind of marketing lets you create just the right message for the customer you’re hoping to reach. That will make them more likely to take action and stay engaged.

9. Marketing Cost Effectively

Without the need for printing, postage, or advertising space, email marketing can result in significant cost savings. Plus, your vending business still looks professional thanks to a well-designed layout and user-friendly email platform. Thus, this type of marketing is a truly budget-friendly solution.

10. Being Valuable to the Customer

Being quick and targeted means email marketing is more valuable to your customers. An email can share relevant updates, exclusive offers, and discounts, all of which are likely of interest to your clients. The more your content is relevant to your email list, the better you keep them engaged. That results in a higher ROI.

11. Owning Your Message

Email marketing gives you full control of your message. You control who sees your email and what they see. Therefore, it’s a direct line of communication. You do not need to rely on third parties or algorithms. Quite simply, you are in charge. That’s priceless.

12. Driving Brand Awareness

When sent consistently, email marketing does a great job of promoting your brand. The content reinforces your message, showcases your break room products and services, and highlights your experience in the industry. It helps your vending company stay top-of-mind for your customers.

Use the Benefits of Email Marketing to Grow

In the end, a vending business can drive up lead quality and boost conversions with the help of digital marketing solutions, like emails. This will ultimately lead to growth from current and new customers.

Interested? Consider VendCentral as your go-to resource for personalized email marketing that can take your business to the next level! Reach out today at (866) 699-8363.

Written by Emily on June 22, 2023

Email marketing is a powerful tool for vending businesses of all sizes. Why? Because it’s how your company can build and nurture relationships with refreshment service customers. 

Especially with business-to-business decision-makers, email is key. It’s preferred over paper mailers and phone calls by most of your current and potential clients. Just ask them. That makes email marketing a must for your vending marketing strategy. 

Because email marketing is such a vital part of a company’s growth and success, we’ve broken down its benefits. Read on for six ways it will help your breakroom services company succeed. 

1. Tailoring Messages

One thing email marketing lets you do is create a message geared toward each customer. Custom content better resonates with recipients. The more the customer feels the information is helpful and on target, the more they will open and click on the emails you send. This boosts engagement and conversion rates. Which is the goal of any email campaign!

2. Getting Feeback and Insight

In a service business, like vending, you need to know what your customers think. So, include links to surveys and feedback forms in your email marketing. This gives you a way to gain insights into the satisfaction level of your customer. It’s also a great way to get suggestions on how to improve your service and better meet their needs. This creates a strong connection and drives up loyalty.

3. Boosting Sales

When an email is done well, it can entice customers to take action. They will buy more products, add a line of service, or take advantage of your promotional deal. This will boost your revenue and profitability!

4. Sharing Your News

Emails make it easy to communicate often with facility managers and human resource personnel in charge of breakroom services. Maybe you send a monthly informative enewsletter or digital company update as needed. However you design your email marketing, it keeps clients in the know about your offerings, any promotions, and the industry news. This is an ideal way to foster trust and power up the customer relationship.

5. Increases Website Visits

Including a call-to-action in your emails can lead to traffic for your website. For example, “Click Here to Learn More” could take an interested facility manager to your water filtration service page and get you some extra revenue. Ultimately, boosting website traffic is good as it leads to more conversions. Whether that means more customers or a higher ticket for an existing customer, it’s a win-win!

6. Getting Info Out Quickly

One of the best things about email marketing is that it’s digital. Meaning it doesn’t take as long to plan and produce as print materials. Emails can be crafted and sent closer to a promo deadline, in a certain season, or as a result of a certain event, like a company anniversary. The digital world moves fast. So, it makes sense that your email campaigns would too!

And We’re Not Done Yet…

There are plenty more benefits to email marketing. That’s why VendCentral offers marketing programs that make email marketing simple and easy. Think custom email campaigns that will “WOW” your target vending client. Or, simply build loyalty. Give VendCentral a call at (866) 699-8363.

And stay tuned for Part 2 in our email marketing benefits series. In that one, we talk money benefits. Trust us, you won’t want to miss it!

Written by Emily on June 6, 2023

Supply Wizards’ online ordering platform is a great way to increase sales and customer satisfaction. Why? To put it simply, it makes ordering a snap for busy facility and office managers. It lets them browse products, which they love to do, and quickly order what they need for the office break room. Plus, online ordering often results in more items being ordered per transaction. It’s a win-win. 

So, how do you add online ordering to your refreshment services website? With the help of Supply Wizards, you can get an easy-to-use online ordering platform added to your website. Your customers can look at available products and submit orders, upping office and bulk pantry sales. In fact, office coffee service operators see a 24% boost in sales when using Supply Wizards. That’s a big jump!

Curious to explore the wonders of Supply Wizards? Keep reading for more details and benefits.

Customers See What You Want Them to See

Your office coffee and pantry customers aren’t all the same. So, it doesn’t make sense that their online ordering menu looks different than your other customers. Supply Wizards lets you customize your product menus for each of your customers. Yes, that’s right! When the customer logs in, they see the product list and pricing you want them to see. 

Even better, you can customize the online ordering any way you need. Show select items, sell products individually or by the case, and have seasonal options.

Use Supply Wizards for Promotions

Want to promote new products and special deals to customers? Their user-friendly online ordering software makes this a hassle-free task. It’s a great boost to your sales strategy and makes customers happy! Set promotional banners to display specific items to all customers at key times. Doing so will make it hard for them to pass up on a good deal or new item!

Save Time on Orders and Reduce Errors

It’s no secret that one of the biggest hassles of break room supply ordering is manual entry. When orders are taken via phone or email, there can be errors when processing the order. This is a common pain point for many operators.

If you’re looking for a way to simplify your ordering process, you’re in luck! The solution is Supply Wizards, which integrates seamlessly with your Vending Management Software (VMS). An order is placed online and then goes immediately into the VMS. It streamlines your order management process and eliminates the need to manually enter orders.

Getting Started with Supply Wizards is Quick and Simple

Supply Wizards’ online ordering platform isn’t difficult to use or learn. It was built with simplicity in mind. Plus, their dedicated team will guide you through the setup process so you can start receiving orders right away. 

A Team Committed to Operators

This isn’t your average online ordering software. It’s a unique e-commerce solution made for office coffee service operators. It can boost sales, make customers happy, and save time and money. Plus, the Supply Wizards’ team is full of convenience service veterans who want to see the industry thrive and your sales grow! 

Reach out to VendCentral today at (866) 699-8363 to discuss online ordering. Trust us, you’ll be glad you did!

Written by Taylor Hicks on May 24, 2023

The NAMA show, hosted by the National Automatic Merchandising Association in Atlanta, brought together leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts in the refreshment services industry. The VendCentral team had the privilege of exploring the trade show floor, attending panels, and networking with key players in the industry. From exciting innovations found at “Imagination Way” to the launch of new products, the show left a lasting impression.

Interested in learning more about the world of possibilities for the industry’s future? Keep reading to discover a few of the show’s highlights, latest product trends, and more!

Coffee, Coffee, & More Coffee!

Office coffee took center stage at the NAMA Show, capturing the attention of attendees at every turn. The Emblem bean-to-cup coffee brewer was ever-present with its exceptional on-demand brewing capabilities. Definitely, a staple to include on your office coffee equipment roster. National brands and local coffee roasters, including Segafredo, Seattle’s Best, Starbucks, Ellis Coffee Company, Bodecker Brewed, and more kept everyone fueled throughout the 3-day show.

Additionally, the popularity of on-the-go coffee options, including nitro brew, cold brew, and canned coffee is undeniable. Brands such as RISE, La Colombe, Wandering Bear, and Costa Coffee made a significant impact, offering unique coffee drinking experiences for attendees.

Bubbling with Excitement: NAMA Beverage Takeaways

The NAMA Show showcased the latest trends in the beverage industry. It came as no surprise that energy drinks continued to dominate. Well-established brands like Red Bull, Celsius, Monster, and C4 Energy drew substantial attention. However, the show also provided a platform for up-and-coming brands such as Alani Nu, PHOCUS, UpTime, and Sparkling Ice Energy Drinks to make their mark.

Better-for-you beverages were another highlight of the event. Healthy soda alternatives like Poppi, Zevia, and Good Mood made their debut, captivating attendees with their healthier and more flavorful options for the refreshment services market.

New-Age Vending Equipment & Technology

In the realm of vending equipment, the NAMA show revealed groundbreaking innovations. For example, Just Baked’s hot food kiosk was a must-see. Offering a wide range of delicious meal and dessert options, you can select, pay, and be eating in minutes. The convenience and quality of these hot and fresh treats left a delightful and memorable impression on everyone’s taste buds.

Supply Wizards Supply Wizards wowed the crowd with their revolutionized online ordering process. Their user-friendly software seamlessly integrates with operators’ Vending Management Systems (VMS), making invoicing and tracking inventory a simple task! On average, operators have seen an increase in order sizes by 24% when using Supply Wizards for their online ordering. Therefore, this product is ideal for operators looking to grow their office coffee and pantry services!

ZippyAssist ZippyAssist emerged as a game-changer, enabling vending operators to provide immediate support to customers. With simple-to-use features like instant refunds and maintenance requests, they’ve streamlined customer service. This text-based platform accessed from a customer’s mobile phone is helping operators across the globe enhance their unattended retail experience.

Embracing the NAMA Show Momentum

Overall, the NAMA show was a resounding success leaving operators inspired by new ideas and technology for the refreshment service industry. From the aroma of freshly brewed coffee to the introduction of cutting-edge vending equipment, this event set the stage for a future of innovation and growth. The VendCentral team looks forward to implementing the lessons learned and supporting the members of our industry through comprehensive marketing services.

VendCentral is solely focused on the refreshment services industry. Contact us to learn how our marketing programs can help your business GROW!

Written by Emily on May 15, 2023

ZippyAssist strengthens the biggest concern of vending customers – service. Its cutting-edge technology opens a connection between you and your customers, 24/7. It builds trust in self-service and unattended retail, driving up sales and retention. And it doesn’t take long before vending machine and micro-market users know about it. It turns a service issue into a chance to give great customer service! 

Keep reading to find out exactly what ZippyAssist is and its many benefits.

Speedy Customer Service

ZippyAssist is a mobile-first customer support and engagement platform. That means your customers can use their smartphones to reach out to you about the refreshment services in their breakroom. It is simple to use and provides the immediate support that your customers want. In other words, ZippyAssist builds trust and consumer confidence! 

Consider ZippyAssist Your Virtual Assistant

Simply by texting, customers can let you know what’s happening in the break room. ZippyAssist collects the info and reports it to you. Customers may ask for a new product. Or, they could send details about an issue keeping them from being able to buy. Whatever it is, ZippyAssist is there to make the exchange simple and positive.

Say Hello to “One-Click” Refunds

One of the best features of ZippyAssist is how easy it is to issue a refund. After all, stuck products and kiosk malfunctions happen. Customers get upset if their money isn’t returned fast. 

ZippyAssist makes it easy and simple to give a refund. Minutes after receiving a request for a refund, you can issue it using a mobile payment app. Give the user money via Paypal, Venmo (US only), Cheque/cash, or Zelle (coming soon). The refund happens in an instant, making the customer happy. 

Try ZippyAssist Yourself!

There’s no better way to see what it can do for your refreshment services company than try it yourself. Text: 1011 to 925-744-7770. You’ll be directed to a link that shows exactly what customers see. You can get help, give feedback, or even learn more about the features and benefits. 

Get ZippyAssist for Your Break Room Services Company 

Don’t let poor customer service be the reason any of your clients switch. Get ZippyAssist to show decision-makers you’ve invested in high-quality service. Plus, it’s a great tool to show facility managers and human resource professionals. Now they don’t need to deal with refunds, plus, it offers a better staff experience. That’s a winning combo. 

Don’t hesitate to boost sales and client retention. Reach out to VendCentral today about ZippyAssit. Contact us at (866) 699-8363 or visit us online.

Written by Emily on April 25, 2023

Blogging can help you get more vending and breakroom service leads. In fact, small business resource Fit Small Business reports that businesses that blog get 67% MORE leads per month. That significant boost in leads makes blogging a huge return on investment.

6 Benefits You Get From Blogging

What makes blogging so successful? What brings all those breakroom service leads? It’s a combination of factors, from better search engine optimization (SEO) to being considered a breakroom expert. Keep reading for more details on the 6 benefits of writing a vending website blog. Trust us; you won’t want to miss them!

1. Increase Website Traffic

Blogging helps people find your website. Keywords used in a blog, like vending and breakroom, are “seen” by search engines. That makes your blog and website more likely to show in search results; therefore, more people will find your company while shopping online for breakroom services.

2. Blogging Drive Conversions

Your vending-related blog is a great place to show customers and prospects your knowledge of breakroom services. And that knowledge can lead to conversions, where users fill out an online form or sign up for an email list. After all, when you want a product or service, you go to a company that knows its stuff. So, show off your expertise by publishing blogs!

3. Contribute to Social Media Efforts

Every company needs a social media presence. If you don’t have one, you should. But let’s assume you do have one. Blogging gives you more items to post about. Yes, it’s true. You can promote your latest article with a nice photo to engage your audience and drive traffic to your website. It’s a win-win! But don’t forget to include a link to the blog. Why? Because a direct link encourages clicks and reads without any leg work from the audience. Doing this also helps boost your SEO score and can help your website climb to the top of the search results.

4. Build Trusting Client Relationships

Just as knowledge of quality refreshment solutions drives conversion, it also builds trust. Blogging about services like micro-markets or office coffee shows your customers you are devoted to your businesses. In turn, they are more likely to trust you with their service needs.

Plus, it lets you show off what you can bring to your customers. And who doesn’t love that? Writing blogs about specific break rooms you’ve installed will help your audience understand what you do and what their break room could look like.

5. Reinforce Your Brand

Don’t forget what your blog can do for your brand. Most people, including human resource professionals and facility managers, prefer doing business with companies they recognize and trust. So, make sure they know your company with a blog tone and look that follows your branding plan.

6. Differentiate a Business From Its Competition

Not all vending companies blog. And that’s to your advantage. Blogging sets you apart from the competition. But even if your local competitors do have a blog, you can still use yours to stand out. Ensure your blog has a personal touch, introducing readers to your brand. Cover local issues, seasonally relevant topics, and the service and products that make you the best choice for breakroom services.

The Time to Start Blogging is Now!

Blogging is an important marketing tool. It brings in readers who can convert to breakroom service leads and sales. The key is consistency and industry knowledge, ensuring appropriate keywords appear throughout the blog for maximum results.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry; our team of marketing experts can help! VendCentral offers different levels of support for vending marketing. Contact us at (866) 699-8363 or visit us online.

Written by Emily on April 12, 2023

When it’s time for your vending company to create a new website there’s a lot to consider. After all, this is where facility managers and human resource managers learn about your company. The new website needs to showcase your brand identity and offer everything your current customers and prospects want to learn.

To get you started, here are some of our new vending website MUSTS.

Start With Services & Products

A clear message about what your vending company offers must be front and center. That means links for each service. In fact, each service should have at least one dedicated webpage. Focus on showing the service with great-looking custom pictures. Plus, include short descriptions that tell why the service is a benefit.

Enhance the User Experience

For business-to-business (B2B) websites like yours, it’s important to optimize the customer experience. Ensure information is up-to-date, links work, and most importantly, everything loads quickly. Nothing frustrates potential clients more than a website that takes several seconds to load (or never does).

It is also critical your new website displays well on a mobile device. Statista reports that 16% of B2B website traffic was from mobile in 2022. The number is growing, suggesting that mobile devices will be used more in the future. Don’t miss a sale because you’re counting on a desktop user! Ensure your website is mobile-optimized.

A New Vending Website Needs Custom Content

Your vending website needs to show who you are as a company. That means personalization. Be open to including photos of your team, warehouse, and the breakrooms you service. Having more than stock photos on your website will help decision-makers relate to your business. A great place to personalize is an About Us page, which can tell your company’s story.

On your new website, don’t forget to create a space for blogs. Writing a blog is a great way to highlight your vending business’ personality, showcase the breakroom services you offer, and help your search engine optimization (SEO).

Generate Leads With a New Vending Website

Your website acts as a sales tool 24/7. Ensure it’s seen by focusing on services and custom content that is full of SEO keywords. That way prospects in your area find your refreshment services company.

Need to know more about what makes a good vending website? Ask VendCentral, the convenience services industry’s digital marketing experts. We offer different levels of marketing support to match your need. Learn more about how one of our vending marketing programs can drive sales by contacting us at info@vendcentral.com or (866) 699-8363.

Written by Emily on March 23, 2023

Research shows there is power in building a network. Those who actively network get more jobs, opportunities, industry knowledge, and respect. That makes it a valuable skill and crucial to growing your vending company. With that being said, networking looks different today than in the past. In fact, it can happen in many ways, including social media, trade shows, cold calling, or in-person meetings.

But what is networking, exactly? And how can you do it well? Read on to find out.

What is Networking?

To put it simply, it means talking to people. For instance, you might talk to them about trends or breakroom ideas. At other times you might talk about your services and how they fit their needs. This is the best kind of networking because it adds value to both people.

What Does Building a Network Look Like?

It’s no surprise that networking can take place anywhere. However, building it with other vending operators and industry members will likely take place at a tradeshow, a community event, or a seminar. Think mingling during happy hour at conferences or talking to your dinner neighbor at a sponsored event. It can also happen at educational seminars. Showing genuine interest in what the presenters have to offer is sure to leave a lasting impression. Plus, it opens the door to chatting with them and getting their contact information.

Don’t forget about posting and commenting on social media platforms. Yes, it’s a new(er) yet vital place to connect with people. For some, it’s preferred. According to Novorésumé, 40% of people would rather network online. So, get out there and post!

What are the Benefits?

Networking is good for your reputation. How, might you ask? First, it adds to your business profile, leading others to see you as well-informed. On the flip side, it can help you gain industry knowledge. For example, you might learn new solutions that enhance your vending services.

Additionally, every connection you make will “humanize” your company. People like to do business with other people, not companies. Therefore, your connections to people can lead directly to new customers and more prospects. It’s also a way to showcase your brand and boost loyalty. That ultimately helps you can gain referrals and drive-up sales!

Network Often, Everywhere, to Win

In summary, networking is a must to grow your vending business naturally. Don’t wait. Start building your vending network now and reap the rewards.

Want some help with online networking? VendCentral has digital sales and marketing experts ready to assist. Our team specializes in the vending, micro-market, pantry, and office coffee service industry to help you grow sales. Contact us today at info@vendcentral.com or (866) 699-8363.

Written by Emily on March 9, 2023

Running a vending contest or promotion for your vending customers offers many benefits. Both can boost excitement about your services as well as build loyalty to your brand. In addition, using social media for your promotional efforts can enhance engagement and gain you followers.

Read on for a look at how vending contests and promotions can increase your vending sales.

Add Excitement

One reason to run a vending business promotion or contest is to create excitement. Why does it work? Because people love a chance to win. That means they will want to enter a drawing or buy a certain product to get a discount. It gets people excited to use your services and enjoy the products you’re offering. That drives up sales at your machines and markets.

Build Loyalty

People are looking for connections and brands to follow. In fact, a survey by Merkle in 2021, showed that over 80% of consumers want to form a relationship with a brand. And, these customers are willing to go out of their way to buy from brands they are loyal to. Promotions and contests give your customers something to be excited about. They can connect to you through a contest or promotion and ultimately become loyal customers.

Increase Engagement

Online contests and promotions that use social media are great ways to engage your customers. Social media makes it easy to post about promotions and contests. It’s also easy for your audience to react. They can follow a link to a contest page or post their thoughts on it instantly. Doing so shows that they want to engage with your vending company. And an engaged customer spends more and is more loyal.

Grow Your Following

Having followers on your social media strengthens your vending marketing efforts. It means more people will see your brand and messaging. This includes facility managers and human resource professionals.

Hosting online contests and promotions is a tried and true way to get more followers. People want more opportunities to play and win. Therefore, they will like and follow your company to get them. Plus, they are likely to share the contest or promotions with their social media connections. Who might then also become your followers. It’s a great way to get leads and grow awareness of your vending operation.

Give promotions and contests a try. There’s little risk and lots of rewards. You gain exposure, followers, loyalty, increased sales, and leads.

Struggling with time and resources to make vending contests a reality? VendCentral can help. We help vending operators increase sales with successful branding, marketing, and sales strategies. Contact us at info@vendcentral.com or (866) 699-8363.