Walk-in
Warehouses, auto shops, small plants: anywhere you can walk up to the front desk.
You: Hi, I'm [Your Name]. I'm starting a vending service here in [Area] and I'm looking for my first few locations. Who looks after the break room? (If the decision maker is there) You: Thanks for a minute. I'd like to put a snack and drink machine in your break room. I buy the machine, stock it and service it every week, and it costs [Business Name] nothing. You'd provide the floor space and a standard outlet. You: I'll be straight with you: I'm new, so you'd be one of my first locations. That means you get my full attention, and I'll put it in writing: if the machine isn't working for you, you can ask me to take it out with [30] days' notice. You: Could I take a quick look at the space and the outlet? If it fits, I'll bring a one-page agreement for you to read. No need to decide today. (If they're busy or the right person isn't in) You: No problem. Here's my card. When's a good time to catch [Manager's Name]?
- Go mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Avoid lunch, shift changes and Monday mornings.
- Before you walk in, count the cars in the staff lot and note the nearest place to buy food. You'll score the place later.
- Leave a one-page sheet: your name, phone, what you offer and your trial terms. Nothing fancier is needed.
- If they ask about insurance and you don't have a policy yet, say you'll send a certificate naming them before you install. Never show a sample or mock certificate as if it were yours.