Vending machines in schools can give students fun alternative options to what is available in the cafeteria. Vending machines in schools do not necessarily have to be used to only sell soda or unhealthy snacks. Some school districts actually have healthy food policies that restrict what can be sold in them, so vending machines in schools can also be stocked with healthy snacks that encourage students to eat well with their spare money and snack time.
Vending machines have been around since the 1920s, when they were introduced to sell cigarettes. Now, vending machines account for between 20 and 30 billion dollars in sales every year. Vending machines in schools are often used by companies to create brand loyalty in young minds. From the 1950s to the 70s, vending machines (not in schools) were used to advertize insurance policies. However, this can be used in a positive way, too. If you stock your vending machines with healthy, yet tasty, snacks that students will want to buy, it can help make them become accustomed to buying certain kinds of foods and brands that make healthy foods. Vending machine services can be used to promote whatever a school district feels is good for its students.
Not all vending machines are food vending machines. Vending machine supplies can also include DVDs, CDs, and other items, depending on what your district wants to sell. They can just include fun items for students and do not have to only be edible products. Through this, vending machines in schools can be used to promote other products and services that a school district feels are good for its students. Vending machines can also be filled with snacks and treats that may not be healthy but students will enjoy just so that students will enjoy their time in school more, as well.