A family holiday in France was continually punctuated by the girls’ demands for Euro coins to put into novelty and sweet vending machines. Gavin’s brother spotted an opportunity to bring these machines to the south west of England. He soon brought in Gavin, who was frustrated by his Civil Service job.
The initial challenges for the brothers were finding the capital to acquire the machines, and the venues to house them. Holiday parks, pubs and other entertainment sites are ideal locations, because they have high levels of visitors, many of whom don’t mind dropping in the odd pound or two in return for a toy, sweet or snack.
An attractive business proposition
It’s not just Gavin who benefits from the sales from his machines; the venue hosting the machine also gets a percentage. This makes it a hugely attractive business proposition for sites that can turn dead space into an income generator. Dorset Vending now has their machines all across the county, but Gavin, who now runs the business single-handed, is always looking for new sites.
He’s also on the lookout for new machines. From the earliest days, Dorset Vending has been committed to using the highest quality machines, and they come from right across the world. Some are classic designs, such as the gumball dispensers from the USA. Others are much more contemporary, like the sleek, futuristic, toy dispensers from Japan.
Surviving in tough times
The recent recession struck just as Dorset Vending was finding its feet. For a business that depends on people being willing to spend a few pounds here and there, it was right in the firing line. The high turnover of pub landlords hasn’t helped.
However, Gavin had the foresight not to focus on just one type of venue, and he’s confident that his business will continue to grow in the months ahead.
His advice to anyone else thinking of setting up, or already running, their own business is not to be afraid of debt. “There are occasions when you need to seek loans to further your business,” he says, but adds that it’s important to stay in control of it. “Keep to a repayment plan even if it means going without, and keep your eye on the finishing line. The last payment of any big loan is very sweet indeed.”
Take a look at the Dorset Vending website.
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