Seeing the vending machines we have all around us today, we can sometimes forget what they were like in the past. As with most things in our society, the have evolved over time. New ideas emerge from the old and the advances in technology certainly help as well. The first ones came about in London in the 1880’s. They first held only post cards and then books as well.



The United States caught wind of vending machines in 1888. The first ones featured a variety of packs of gum. They were located in Subway stations in both New York and Chicago. It wasn’t long before various types of vending machines were cropping up all over the place. It was in the 1900’s that the still popular circular gumball vending machine was introduced and immediately a huge success.





One of the most unique vending machine operations was in place from 1902 until 1962. The well known Horn & Hardart coin operated restaurant was a huge success. This was the only way to buy and foods or beverages you wanted for your meal. People came to Philadelphia just to experience it for themselves.



The really big popularity of vending machines in the United States though didn’t take place until both Coke and Pepsi got involved. The two rivals are to this day still looking for ways to do better than the other one. They both mass produced vending machines so they could distribute more soda to their consumers. It was in the 1940’s when they were offered and making huge sales.



If you haven’t seen one of the old fashioned vending machines with those glass bottles they are really neat. The bottles were in the machine sideways and would be dispensed by entering coins and moving a mechanical arm. There was a bottle opener on the door so as soon as you got your drink you could open it and enjoy it.



The designs on vending machines have really changed since then. They vary in size and design. Most of the time the design is a marketing ploy to encourage you to buy something from it. They are also designed better inside too which means they can operate more efficiently. This cuts down on money lost due to not working and on angry customers who got ripped off.



Vending machines today offer much more than just post cards and books though. They offer food, supplies, games, and even entertainment. It can be really fund to spend some time exploring what your options are. Vending machines are all around us so it won’t be hard to locate some of them.



You may be so used to the various vending machines around that you don’t really see what is inside of them. Pay more attention though as you walk around and you may be surprised. Look at what is offered with it both inside and outside. You will be impressed with them many different options that you come across. Don’t underestimate those older models though - some are worth a great deal of money to collectors.