The 5-axis scorecard
Every operator will tell you they're the best. The scorecard cuts through that. Score each operator 1–5 on the axes below, then compare totals — and dig into any 1s or 2s before signing.
- •Coverage & route density in your postcode
- •Tech: cashless, telemetry, AI restock, reporting
- •SLA: response time, uptime %, restock frequency
- •Commercials: split, minimums, contract length, exit terms
- •ESG: healthy range, packaging, energy rating, reporting
Questions to ask before signing
The right questions surface the real operator behind the sales deck. Ask them all in writing.
- •What's your average uptime across similar sites?
- •How often do you restock and by what trigger (schedule vs telemetry)?
- •What happens on day-2 of a machine outage?
- •Show me a real monthly sales report from a comparable site.
- •What's the cashless failure rate on your fleet?
Why we don't publish a ranked list
Best-of lists are almost always sponsored. Instead, use the scorecard above and compare 3 operators side-by-side using our compare tool — with real numbers from your postcode.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the biggest vending machine companies?+
Global tier-1: Selecta, Aramark Refreshments, Compass/Foodbuy, Canteen. Regional operators often beat them on service in specific postcodes.
Should I go with a national or regional operator?+
National for multi-site rollouts and reporting consistency. Regional for single sites — service is usually faster and the account team more responsive.
How do I compare vending operators fairly?+
Use a fixed scorecard (coverage, tech, SLA, commercials, ESG) and require every proposal to answer the same 5 questions.
vending.markets matches your brief to operators, formats and finance — neutrally.