Coin, Vending, and Amusement Machine Servicers and Repairers

Today’s vending machines already handle some tasks that used to be done by people. For example, many modern machines track sales and payments automatically. One industry report found that 65% of vending machines now accept cashless payments, and about 72% of transactions are cash-free ^[1].

This means operators no longer need to manually count all the coins – the machine logs it for them. “Smart” machines often have sensors and cameras that constantly monitor stock levels and cash. As one facilities report explains, some vendors’ machines “feature … real-time monitoring systems to track product activity and ensure cash accountability” ^[2]. These systems can alert service crews when supplies run low or if money doesn’t add up, which speeds up restocking and accounting.

Even researchers are testing IoT and AI tools that predict failures before they happen (so machines get fixed before they break), although these systems are mostly experimental right now.

Whether more AI tools spread in this field depends on costs, benefits, and customer needs. On the plus side, customer demand is pushing quick adoption of helpful tech. Sellers know people like easy, contactless payments and up-to-date machines.

In fact, the same report notes that adding “newer, more seamless payment methods” shows the vending industry’s “capacity for embracing technological innovation” ^[1]. Energy-saving and remote-monitoring features are also catching on (for example, some machines automatically adjust cooling or lighting to save power). When machines fail or run empty, owners benefit financially if sensors can tell them exactly what needs fixing or refilling in advance.

This reduces wasted visits and keeps customers happy, giving a clear economic incentive to use smart tech.