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Vending machines sell many different types of items. Some of them sell cold drinks like soda, or hot drinks like coffee or hot chocolate. Others sell candy, stamps, tickets, newspapers, and other types of small merchandise.
These machines have been successful for two reasons. They save time and they are convenient. Merchandise sold in machines eliminates the need for a salesclerk or cashier. In many places the customer can use the machines at any time of day or night.
Although there are many different sizes and types of vending machines, they all work in basically the same way. The customer puts a coin into the machine and then push a button, pulls a lever, or opens a door to receive the merchandise. Some machines will also return change to the customer for paper money. But the basic idea is the same. Customers like to save time and are usually willing to pay a higher price for this convenience.
The sale of snacks in vending machines has always been very successful. However, machines now sell hot meals with only limited success. In New York City, automats used to sell a lot of hot foods in vending machines. But in recent years, fast food establishments have replaced automats.