Vending

Cincinnati vending machine dispenses surprise beverages

Photo: Adobe Stock

May 14, 2026

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A Cincinnati-area business is reimagining the vending machine experience with a concept built around surprise beverage selections from around the world, according to a WCPO 9 report. The "Mystery Machine," created by founder Harrison Baer, dispenses drinks at random, offering customers more than 1,000 possible combinations ranging from international beverages to sparkling, diet and caffeine-free options.

Baer said the idea was inspired by childhood memories of visiting a neighborhood vending machine with friends, where the unpredictability of the selection added to the excitement. He later turned the concept into a business, leaving his corporate job and investing his savings to develop a vending experience centered on novelty and shared social interaction. Customers can choose broad drink categories or opt for a fully random selection, although standard options such as Coke, Diet Coke and bottled water also are available.

The business has expanded to four locations across the Cincinnati Tri-State region of southwestern Ohio, northern Kentucky and southeastern Indiana. The machines also include a promotional "golden can" feature that awards prizes such as free dessert coupons, adding a gamified element to the vending experience.

Vending