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Introduction

Machine Selection & Purchasing

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Installing & Launching at a New Location

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Micromarket Setup & Infographic

Micromarket Setup & Infographic

Mike Hoffmann

Vending Machine Expert

Learn to design a seamless micromarket setup that maximizes flow, product visibility, and security.

Layout That Moves Product and Minimizes Shrink

Start with your temperature zoning:

  • Place 34–38°F drink coolers near the entrance — cold thirst = impulse buys

  • Frozen entrees go on the far right — minimizes frost from repeated door swings

  • Leave a 4" gap behind every unit for airflow — never let your compressor “kiss the wall”

  • Level each machine using a bubble level and ¼” shims — this keeps compressors quiet and efficient

Kiosk Positioning: ADA & Signal Ready

Mount your touchscreen kiosk at 48” eye level, with the keypad under 46” for full ADA compliance. Run the LTE antenna to the cabinet top3 bars minimum is a must for live sync. Add an 18-inch floor decal in front to cue the queue and prevent chaos during peak hours.

Camera & Security Placement

Deploy two cameras:

  • Cam 1 — 8 feet high, aimed at kiosk-cooler junction

  • Cam 2 — angled 45° over the snack shelf

  • Install metal lock bars on cooler doors

  • Use 300–500 lux LED strips for sharp footage

  • Set motion alert thresholds, budget for 3–5% shrink — even good setups see that

Visual Cues, Signage & Behavioral Nudges

  • Backlit Grab & Go header — color-match to property branding

  • ShelfEdge Labels — show price, flavor, and a QR feedback code

  • Add a Healthy Picks decal on the upper-left cooler door to prompt smarter choices

Send out a one-pager explaining the tap-scan-pay flow, paired with:

  • A teaser email

  • A lobby flyer — drop both 48 hours pre-launch

Ready to Go Live?

If your layout is locked, you’re ready for the final pre-launch checklist:

  • Test vends

  • Label alignment

  • Temperature verification

  • Live payment runs

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Complete the following exercises:

1. Reflect on the layout of a micromarket you have visited. Consider how the placement of coolers and kiosks influenced your shopping experience. Did you find the setup intuitive and easy to navigate? What changes would you suggest to improve flow and accessibility?

2. Design a basic floor plan for a hypothetical micromarket considering the principles discussed. Focus on the strategic placement of temperature zones, kiosks, and security cameras. Share your plan with a peer for feedback on potential improvements and challenges.

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QUIZ

1. What is the recommended height to mount a touchscreen in a micromarket for ADA compliance?

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Leave your comments and questions below.

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Join Vendingpreneurs

Join live weekly calls with me & coaches with $1M+/mo vending experience. We'll handhold you through your first vending business.

Join Vendingpreneurs

Join live weekly calls with me & coaches with $1M+/mo vending experience. We'll handhold you through your first vending business.

Join Vendingpreneurs

Join live weekly calls with me & coaches with $1M+/mo vending experience. We'll handhold you through your first vending business.