Vending Machine Operators NAICS 445132

Sep 22, 2025 - Reverse Vending Machines Gain Traction

• According to a report in Vending Times, reverse vending machines (RVMs) are gaining traction as sustainability becomes a retail priority. The machines accept used beverage containers and give consumers refunds or incentives, streamlining recycling through automation. Driven by expanding deposit return schemes and rising environmental awareness, RVMs are now common in supermarkets and convenience stores. Operators must consider regulatory compliance, machine accuracy, capacity, and customer experience, while manufacturers focus on modular design and advanced recognition technologies. With over 87,000 units globally, RVMs represent a scalable solution for waste reduction and consumer engagement. Growing RVM adoption signals a shift toward circular economy practices, positioning operators and manufacturers to capitalize on regulatory momentum and sustainability-driven innovation.
• Employment by convenience retailers and vending machine operators was flat in July 2025 compared to the previous year, according to data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. In the past decade, industry employment fell 1.2%, lower than the 13% growth in the overall private employment. Wages at convenience retailers and vending machine operators were also flat in July 2025 year over year, reaching $16.59 an hour. A recent report on the convenience services industry shows the industry generates $40 billion in annual economic impact in the US, as well as supporting 165,300 jobs with $11.3 billion in wages paid, according to the Foundation of the National Automatic Merchandising Association. The report includes traditional vending, unattended retail markets, office coffee, and pantry services as part of the convenience services industry.

• US consumer mood indicators have weakened, signaling potential headwinds for spending. The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index fell 1.3 points in August 2025, with the decline driven by younger consumers under 35, while confidence among those over 55 improved. Meanwhile, the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index slipped to 55.4 in early September from 58.2 in August, down 21% year over year. Inflation expectations held steady, but persistent worries about prices and tariff impacts remain. Consumer sentiment and confidence are leading indicators of discretionary spending, which drives two-thirds of U.S. economic activity. A continued slump suggests households may curb purchases and delay big-ticket decisions, raising risks for retailers, service providers, and the broader economy.
• Sales for the US vending machine operators industry are projected to grow at a 2.8% CAGR from 2025 to 2029, slower than the overall economy's projected growth, according to a forecast from Inforum and the Interindustry Economic Research Fund, Inc. The retail and wholesale sectors are driven by consumer spending, along with expenditure by businesses and government. Consumer sentiment is expected to improve in the forecast period, which bodes well for the sector. The forecast said retail spending could soften with the growth of spending on consumer services. A factor that may limit consumer spending is higher tariffs on consumer goods. Lower inflation supports a moderate increase of real disposable income by about 2% in 2025 and 1.9% in 2026. Real income could suffer if prices rise due to tariff implementation.