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SOME RECOGNIZE CONVENIENCE HAS A COST
Schaeffer was one of several location managers who said he recognizes that vending prices cannot be lower than those in other retail outlets. As a result, he allows the operator to raise prices when a need is shown. “You’re paying for the convenience,” he said.
Scheaffer said the professionalism of the driver is very important. He wants the driver to behave diplomatically with students who might get in the driver’s way when he’s doing his job. He also want the driver to look people in the eye when spoken to.
Scheaffer was one of many interviewed who said the working relationship that gets established over time is important in deciding which operator to work with.
Schools and hospitals were the most concerned about wellness options.
At the University of Akron in Akron, Ohio, vending supplements the manual foodservice. “It’s fairly important,” said Ed Hainrahir, director of marketing and retail operations. The school’s main criteria for selecting a vending operator are equipment reliability, product variety, energy efficiency and commission.
While many accounts want a commission, they also recognize that the income from the commission will not amount to much if the machine does not offer what people want at a reasonable price.
“If we don’t have products the students and faculty want, we’re not going to get a return on our contract,” said Shirley Darr, assistant auxiliary director at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. “We see it as a convenience and a supplement to foodservice on campus.”
