Vending

4 social media post ideas vending operators can try this week

Social media is now a cost-effective way for vending operators to turn everyday work into visibility and visibility into sales.

Photo: Adobe Stock

August 8, 2025 by Sandra Carpenter — Editor, Networld Media Group

Social media might not seem like an essential tool for a vending machine business, but it can be one of the most effective ways to land new locations, build customer loyalty and showcase the value of modern vending. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, TikTok and LinkedIn give operators the chance to go beyond the machine, sharing stories, updates and behind-the-scenes moments that resonate with customers and location partners alike.

We've rounded up five post ideas you can put to work this week, each inspired by real operators who've used social media to give their vending business a boost.

1. Share a customer-inspiring story

Content that tells a real story can spark more engagement than any product photo. A perfect example is 12-year-old Adrian Peña, who saw a vending machine on TikTok and decided to start a business of his own. His journey from one machine to a growing operation shows how social media can inspire action and it's a reminder that operators can inspire, too.

How to try it:

Post about your own business origin story, a milestone you've reached or how your machines are making a difference in the community. Pair it with a candid photo or short video.

2. Spark conversation about industry trends

Social media isn't just for promotions — it's a great place to invite dialogue. This TikTok from @emmeworks asks viewers whether "AI vending machines" are the real deal or just marketing hype. It's short, simple and gets people talking.

How to try it:

Post a quick video or photo and ask your audience a question about a product trend, payment option or machine feature. Encourage them to leave their opinions in the comments.

3. Showcase machine upgrades or unique features

Customers and potential location partners want to know that machines are modern, reliable and exciting to use. A great example is this viral video of the Snapshell vending machine in Australia, which lets customers create custom phone cases by scanning a QR code and uploading any image from their phone. The machine then seamlessly prints the design onto the case, producing a personalized product in minutes.

The post shows exactly how the process works, from uploading the image to the finished product, and it's an instant attention grabber. It not only highlights a unique offering but also demonstrates how vending can deliver a premium, customized experience.

How to try it:

Create a short video showing off something new about your machine — whether it's an upgraded touchscreen, LED lighting or a unique product that people won't expect to find in a vending machine. Show the process from start to finish so viewers can see the value right away.

4. Highlight partnerships and locations

Tagging and celebrating the businesses that host machines can extend your reach to their followers. It also builds goodwill with partners. Even big brands do this — though sometimes with mixed results. Poppi's influencer campaign, which sent branded vending machines to creators during Super Bowl week, drew massive attention but also backlash (Marketing Brew coverage). The lesson: authenticity matters.

How to try it:

Post a photo of a machine in its location, tag the business and thank them for the partnership. Keep the tone genuine and focused on mutual benefit.

Why this works

For operators, the goal of social media isn't to post daily for the sake of it; it's to create meaningful touchpoints with customers and partners. The examples above show that posts don't need to be overproduced. A well-timed restock video, a community question or a partnership highlight can keep your business top-of-mind.

Social media is no longer just a "nice to have" for vending. It's a cost-effective way to show off the work already being done every day, and in a competitive market, that visibility can make the difference between a machine sitting in storage and a machine making sales.

About Sandra Carpenter

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Sandra is the editor of Kiosk Marketplace and Vending Times. She has been working in editorial and research roles for over a decade and has experience in print, blog, social media and peer-reviewed publications.

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