Beauty vending machines in local venues

Gym-goers, students, salon clients and staff who want a quick purchase. Venue owners also benefit from a commission or rent arrangement.

The difference between what you pay for stock wholesale and the machine price, minus any commission to the venue, card fees and restocking costs.

• Choosing products people buy on impulse
• Negotiating with venue managers
• Keeping track of stock and cash
• Reliable restocking schedule

• Public liability and stock or equipment insurance, check what venues require
• Cosmetics sold in Australia must meet labelling and safety rules, check the ACCC and AICIS guidance, especially if you import or make products
• Heat can spoil creams and lotions, check storage temperatures for each product
• Check whether you need to register for GST and what council or landlord permission applies to the site
• Card payment fees and machine breakdowns can cut into small margins

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on how many machines you buy, your opening stock and the sites you secure. Get quotes for your own plan before committing.

Check ACCC and AICIS guidance on cosmetics labelling and safety rules, especially if you import or make products. Also check whether you need to register for GST, what council or landlord permission applies to the site, and storage temperatures for creams and lotions.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around $400 to $2,000, depending on the sites, products and number of machines. Estimated time starts from about 4 hours a week. Card fees and breakdowns can cut into margins.