Vending

Lancashire teen opens 13 vending machines, inspired by YouTube

Photo: Adobe Stock

October 1, 2024

14-year-old Alfie Rhodes has launched his own vending machine company and operating 13 vending machines in the Lancashire, UK area, according to a Lancashire Telegraph report.

Rhodes was inspired to start his own business by seeing a YouTube creator's success in vending.

"I bought my first vending machine with my birthday money," Rhodes told the news outlet. "I was watching YouTube videos when I saw a guy making videos. He bought a few vending machines and filled them up to sell items. I thought it was really interesting and thought I'd give it a try. I asked my dad if I could and he agreed."

Rhodes aims to increase his vending machine fleet to 20 by end of year. His father praised Rhodes for his initiative and business acumen, noting the vending machine profits are teaching Rhodes how to reinvest his earnings.