Food dispensing machines offer a fast, convenient snack at any time of the day and have become a staple part of our lives, filling our train stations, leisure centres and offices. Dominic Southin, Franchise Director of newly launched franchise Snack Machine, reveals that his concept provides the personal touch that is lacking at the moment in the vending industry.

"It's simple: larger vending companies cannot provide the service to their customers," he explains. "Our focus is on maintaining a positive relationship with our customers by giving them the service that they deserve. Franchisees look after their customers at a local level and this is why our business is successful."

Another attractive aspect of the business is that the franchisee has control over the vending machine with regard to price setting and product mix.

This helps the franchisee tailor the vending machine to the site's needs, plus to maximise profits while keeping customers happy.

Snack Machine has developed two franchise packages to cater for part- and full-time requirements. The part-time package requires an investment of £17,900 and involves six to eight hours' work a week. This includes 12 refrigerated vending machines sited and installed within the allocated territory. In addition, franchisees are also provided with the support of the Snack Machine team including a full training programme, technical and field support and a concise launch programme. Package two is available for full-time franchisees. This incorporates the same level of support, but across a larger allocated territory. Full-time franchisees operate a different mix of equipment totalling 30 machines, with an investment requirement of £59,800.

Package 1: Part-time

• 12 midi fully automatic, refrigerated vending machines, sited and installed.
• Price £17,900

Package 2: Full-time

• 25 midi machines and 5 large fully automatic, refrigerated vending machines, sited and installed.
• Price £59,800

"We're not looking for qualifications or experience," adds Dominic, "just enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, coupled with an ability to communicate with people."