Vending

Pennsylvania hardware chain plans 2nd after-hours vending machine

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September 28, 2026

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T & M Hardware and Rental plans to install a vending machine stocked with hardware products at its Jackson Township store in Pennsylvania, according to a Butler Eagle report. Co-owner Samantha Post said the machine would give customers a way to buy supplies after the store closes at 7 p.m., including items they might need for an overnight plumbing emergency.

The family-owned chain has operated a similar machine at its Bellevue location near Pittsburgh since March. Post said sales there have grown as customers have become familiar with the idea. Some shoppers use it during store hours when they need a single item and want to make a quick purchase. Finding a machine that could handle hardware products of different sizes was an early challenge, she said.

The Jackson Township machine is on-site but has not been installed because the store is being remodeled. T & M is considering placing it in a new foyer or outdoors for around-the-clock access; the launch date remains uncertain. The six-store chain eventually hopes to add machines at its other locations.