How the split actually works
Revenue share is calculated on net sales — gross takings minus VAT and card-processing fees. The operator funds the machine, restocks it, handles servicing and cashless reconciliation. In return, the location earns an agreed % paid monthly or quarterly.
Typical splits by format
Splits vary by format, machine density and the site's throughput. High-throughput sites (transport, hospitals, large logistics) command the top end.
- •Traditional snacks/drinks: 5–12% to location
- •Bean-to-cup coffee: 8–15% to location
- •Micro-markets: 8–20% to location (higher basket, higher share)
- •Smart fridges / fresh: 10–18% to location
Contract clauses to read carefully
Revenue share is standard — but the surrounding clauses are where deals get uneven. Always ask for these in writing.
- •Term length + termination for non-performance (should be ≤ 90 days)
- •Minimum monthly sales trigger for share calculation
- •Whether card fees are deducted before or after share
- •Price-change rights — who signs off on retail price rises
- •Reporting frequency — monthly telemetry reports should be standard
Signs of a good operator deal
A good deal isn't the highest %. It's a fair share plus the service standard that keeps the machine full, current and cashless.
- •Telemetry-based reporting, not paper spreadsheets
- •Next-business-day service SLA
- •≥ 98% availability guarantee
- •Transparent product margins and VAT handling
- •ESG / healthy range if requested
Frequently asked questions
What's a fair vending revenue share?+
5–12% of net sales for standard vending, 8–20% for micro-markets. Anything below 5% needs a very strong service or capex justification.
Do we pay for the machine on revenue share?+
No — the operator funds the machine, stock and service. You provide the space, power, and share of sales.
How is 'net sales' defined?+
Gross takings minus VAT and (usually) card-processing fees. Confirm in writing which fees are deducted before the split.
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