Vending

French Fry vending launches in Ohio

Adobe Stock

February 6, 2026

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Hot Foods Vending has launched a fresh-french-fry vending machine inside Match Point Pickleball Club in Columbus, Ohio, giving players quick access to hot fries for $4.50 per order.

The machine is designed to deliver freshly cooked food on demand and allows host venues to set prices within a typical range of $4 to $7, according to a 614 Media report.

The unit stores about 35 pounds of fries that are pre-fried to about 90%. When an order is placed, the fries are returned to the fryer for the final cooking stage. Orders are dispensed in paper cups, with condiments such as salt and ketchup provided on-site, according to operators Craig Kalie and Evan DuBro.

The machine took roughly a year to develop, a period spent sourcing equipment and securing permits. While Match Point is the first Columbus-area location to feature the system, Hot Foods Vending plans additional deployments, with Indian Mound Mall in Heath cited as a likely next site, particularly because it lacks a traditional food court.

Vending