What determines the choice of machine?
A bouquet, a cake box and a selection of farm produce need different compartments and storage conditions. Start with the products and packaging, then choose the model and specification. The machine’s outer dimensions matter, but so does the amount of suitable stock it can hold.
For an initial comparison, list your packaging dimensions, product range and preferred number of compartments. Our machines page shows options for different products.
One-off startup costs
| Cost | What to check in the quote |
|---|---|
| Equipment | Model, compartments, storage conditions and included features |
| Delivery and unloading | Delivery to your address and access to the site |
| Site preparation | Base, electricity supply and connectivity |
| Installation and setup | Included work and training |
| Initial stock | Products, packaging and other supplies |
| Branding and website | What you need for launch and what is priced separately |
The equipment’s starting price does not mean every item in this table is included. Compare quotes with the same scope of work. A lower equipment price may not mean a lower total cost if delivery and installation have to be arranged separately.
Costs once the machine is running
It helps to split the monthly budget into two parts.
Keeping the location running: site rent, electricity, connectivity, maintenance and any software subscription. The charges depend on the equipment and your agreements.
Sales and restocking: goods, packaging, payment fees, travel, cleaning and unsold stock. Include your own time, even if you restock and look after the machine yourself at first.
A useful estimate needs a location, model and restocking plan. Another operator’s costs may not apply to your project if those conditions differ.
How to compare two locations
Think about why someone would buy there, as well as how many people pass. Near offices, a customer might collect an order after work; on the way home, buy pastries; outside a florist, pick up flowers in the evening.
Compare rent, access hours, visibility, somewhere to stop and the time needed to restock. Suitable locations for flowers and farm produce may differ.
Compare your expected revenue with the cost of goods, costs per sale and monthly bills. Allow for a lower-sales scenario too: could you keep the location running during a quiet month?
What to send when requesting a quote
- The products you want to sell and how they are packaged.
- An address or description of the proposed location.
- A site photo, if you have chosen a location.
- Whether customers will buy at the machine or order ahead.
You do not need every detail before getting in touch. We can discuss the address and packaging dimensions if they are not yet settled. For advance orders, read about online order collection from a machine.
