You are correct that the vending machines with more variety (i.e. pop, ice cream, chips, etc.) generate more money. And yes, they are definitely more work.

They must be serviced more frequently and there’s a higher potential for theft/vandalism. (Let’s face it: people don’t try to steal a handful of nuts!)

Also, in a bad economy, the larger machines tend to do less volume. I’m sure you’ve heard the financial “gurus” tell people one way to save money and cut back on expenses is to eliminate the daily chocolate bar, can of coke, etc. On the other hand, no one thinks twice about dropping a quarter for a handful of M&Ms.

Whether small or large machine, the most important thing is location. Somewhere with a lot of foot traffic and you should be successful with either size!

Have you owned any vending machines with soda pop, ice cream, chips, or food? I think those would earn more money than one with gum or candies. But, are they more work?