U.S. Retail Vending Machine Market Size, Share Report 2030

U.S. Retail Vending Machine Market Trends

The U.S. retail vending machine market size was estimated at USD 15.03 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% from 2025 to 2030. Factors such as the increasing demand for convenient, on-the-go food and beverage options, technological advancements such as cashless payment systems and smart vending machines, and the growing trend of automation in retail are driving the market. Additionally, the rise in urbanization and busy lifestyles has fueled the need for quick and accessible shopping solutions. The integration of IoT and AI in vending machines has enhanced the user experience by offering personalized product recommendations and real-time inventory tracking.

The industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by the increasing penetration of automated retail solutions across diverse locations such as malls, airports, offices, and even residential complexes. Consumers are looking for quick, contactless shopping experiences, and vending machines provide a convenient way to purchase snacks, beverages, and even electronics without the need for human interaction. The expansion of unattended retail has been particularly fueled by the post-pandemic shift toward self-service technologies. For example, Amazon introduced Amazon Go smart vending machines, which leverage AI and computer vision to enable cashier-less transactions.

Technological innovations are another critical driver in the industry. The integration of AI, IoT, and cashless payment systems has enhanced the efficiency and appeal of vending machines. Smart vending machines can now track inventory in real-time, optimize restocking, and offer personalized product recommendations based on past purchases. Companies like Coca-Cola and PepsiCo have introduced touchscreen-enabled machines that allow customers to mix and customize their drinks. Similarly, smart vending units in universities and hospitals now dispense healthy snacks, PPE kits, and pharmaceuticals, expanding beyond traditional snack and beverage offerings.

The rise of healthy and premium vending options is reshaping the industry. With growing health consciousness, consumers are seeking organic, gluten-free, and protein-rich snacks, leading to an increase in vending machines offering nutritious alternatives. Brands like Farmer’s Fridge and HelloGoodness (by PepsiCo) have installed vending machines stocked with salads, fresh wraps, and low-calorie beverages in workplaces and gyms. This shift reflects a broader trend where vending machines are no longer just for junk food but are becoming a part of the health and wellness movement in retail.

Another key factor driving the industry is the expansion of vending machines beyond food and beverage, into categories like electronics, cosmetics, and fashion accessories. Companies like Best Buy have introduced vending machines in airports that sell items like headphones, chargers, and tablets, catering to last-minute travelers. Similarly, beauty brands such as Benefit Cosmetics have installed vending machines in high-traffic areas to provide on-the-go beauty products. This diversification is enhancing customer engagement and driving higher revenue per vending unit.

The industry has evolved and steadily grown over the years. As consumers’ lives get busier and people seek convenience and time-saving options while on the go, vending machine operators are presented with many opportunities. As consumer preferences shift toward health-conscious and organic products, vending machine operators have the opportunity to introduce healthier snack and beverage options. Machines offering protein bars, fresh juices, organic snacks, and meal replacements can cater to the rising demand for nutritional convenience. Additionally, vending machines selling gluten-free, keto, and plant-based foods can attract health-conscious consumers in urban areas, gyms, and workplaces, expanding the market potential for specialty vending.

The industry demonstrates robust growth and dominance, with over 7 million machines installed nationwide, serving approximately 100 million Americans daily. Key manufacturers are also driving market growth through continuous product innovations, introducing new flavors and formulations to meet changing consumer tastes. In July 2024, PizzaForno, North America’s leading automated pizzeria, demonstrated a remarkable expansion in the first half of 2024, launching operations across multiple U.S. states, including Utah, California, Delaware, New York, Florida, and Maryland.

Product Insights

Beverage retail vending machines accounted for the largest share of 38.08% in 2024, owing to the growing consumer preference for convenient, on-the-go refreshment options and advancements in vending technology. The increasing demand for healthier beverages, such as cold-pressed juices, functional drinks, and premium coffee, has expanded vending machine offerings beyond traditional soft drinks. Businesses are also leveraging vending machines as a cost-effective, 24/7 retail solution, further fueling market growth.

Technological advancements are playing a pivotal role in the expansion of the beverage vending machine market. Smart vending machines equipped with AI, IoT, and mobile payment systems enhance the shopping experience, allowing consumers to make purchases using contactless cards, QR codes, and mobile wallets, reducing reliance on cash transactions.

The snacks retail vending machine market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.0% from 2025 to 2030. The increasing demand for quick and convenient food options aligns with modern consumers’ fast-paced lifestyles, making vending machines an attractive alternative to traditional retail. As snack consumption rises, vending machines are becoming a crucial distribution channel, particularly in high-traffic locations such as offices, schools, hospitals, and public transportation hubs. The expansion of vending machines into new environments, combined with the integration of smart vending technologies, continues to drive market growth.

Location Insights

Retail vending machines in manufacturing accounted for the largest share of 35.80% in 2024, owing to the growing need to enhance workplace efficiency and employee convenience. These machines provide quick access to snacks, beverages, and essential supplies such as tools and PPE, helping to reduce downtime and improve productivity. The adoption of Industry 4.0 and digital transformation further supports the expansion of vending machines in manufacturing by enhancing automation and optimizing supply chain management within industrial settings. By offering both essential work supplies and convenient meal options, vending machines contribute to a more efficient workforce while ensuring seamless inventory management.

Retail vending machines in public places are projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.3% from 2025 to 2030. High-foot-traffic locations such as train stations, airports, malls, and parks benefit from these machines by enabling quick, cashless transactions and reducing reliance on staffed retail outlets. The increasing consumer preference for healthier food options has also influenced vending machine offerings. Many now stock organic snacks, low-calorie beverages, and nutritious meal choices. This trend is particularly evident in schools, hospitals, and fitness centers, where vending machines are being installed to provide healthier alternatives, catering to the rising demand for wellness-focused products.

Payment Mode Insights

Cashless retail vending machines accounted for the largest share of 75.00% in 2024, reflecting the growing consumer shift toward digital transactions. Vending machine operators are adapting by integrating mobile payments, credit/debit card readers, and QR code payment systems, driven by the increasing use of smartphones, mobile wallets, and tap-to-pay cards. The primary appeal of cashless payments lies in convenience, as they eliminate the need for physical money, enabling faster and hassle-free transactions. Consumers no longer have to carry exact change or worry about handling cash, making cashless vending machines a more efficient and user-friendly option. Cantaloupe’s 2023 Micropayment Trends Report analyzed data from approximately 675,000 active card readers on food and beverage vending machines across the U.S. and Canada from January to December 2022. The findings revealed that EMV payments were the primary drivers of contactless sales, accounting for over 52% of all contactless transactions by the end of the year. The report suggests that this growth reflects a broader trend of vending operators upgrading their machines to offer a safer and more efficient credit card payment experience.

The cash segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of 1.4% from 2025 to 2030. Despite the rise of digital payments, cash transactions remain relevant in various regions due to continued reliance on physical currency. Additionally, security and privacy concerns drive some consumers to prefer cash, as it helps avoid digital tracking, identity theft risks, and potential cyber fraud. Unlike digital payments, cash transactions do not leave a digital footprint, offering greater privacy—an important factor in regions where financial surveillance is a concern.

Key U.S. Retail Vending Machine Company Insights

Key players operating in the U.S. retail vending machine market are undertaking various initiatives to strengthen their presence and increase the reach of their products and services. Strategies such as expansion activities and partnerships are key in propelling the market growth.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Cantaloupe, a self-service commerce technology provider, launched smart stores as an innovative alternative to traditional vending machines. These 24/7 self-service solutions are designed for retailers, residential buildings, fitness centers, and hotel pantries. The system operates through a simple process where customers present payment at the POS to unlock the unit, select items, and complete their purchase by hitting “Pay.

• In January 2023, Thundercomm launched its Smart Vending Machine Solution at CES 2023, designed to enhance the consumer experience and improve operational efficiency for vending machine operators. The solution uses dynamic vision technology to accurately identify purchased goods, simplifying the purchasing process for consumers. It also supports dynamic SKU updates, reducing the need for retraining and streamlining the introduction of new products, ultimately lowering operating costs and maximizing container space utilization.

• In September 2024, Better Fresh Farms introduced an innovative salad vending machine at Cool Beanz Espresso Bar in Statesboro, Georgia, offering fresh, hydroponically grown salads priced at USD 8.99 for a large portion. The machine features various salad options with protein add-ons, using locally grown fresh greens.

U.S. Retail Vending Machine Market Report Scope

U.S. Retail Vending Machine Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the country level and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the U.S. retail vending machine market report on the basis of product, payment mode, location, and country:

• Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 – 2030)

  • Beverage Vending Machines

    
    

  • Snacks Vending Machines

  • Food Vending Machines

  • Frozen Vending Machines

  • Tobacco Vending Machines

  • Games/Amusement Vending Machines

  • Beauty & Personal Care Vending Machines

  • Candy & Confectionery Vending Machines

  • Pharmaceuticals Vending Machines

  • Electronics Vending Machines

  • Book & Magazine Vending Machines

• Location Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 – 2030)

  • Manufacturing

  • Offices

  • Colleges & Universities

  • Hospitals & Nursing Homes

  • Restaurants, Bars & Clubs

  • Public Places

  • Others

• Payment Mode Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 – 2030)