Japan has a long vending machine's history with vending machines from over a hundred years ago. Nowadays, it gradually becomes an important model in the daily life of every Japanese person. Behind this amazing invention, there are many facts that you may not have heard, let's find out interesting things about vending machines in Japan through the article below!
Vending machines in Japan
Large number of vending machines
The vending machine model is developing strongly in Japan. According to statistics from the Japan National Tourism Administration, there are nearly 5.52 million vending machines in Japan- just behind the United States. However, in terms of land area, Japan is still the leading country with the highest density of vending machines in the world.
Popular vending machine’s types
In Japan, it is rare to find packed light food vending machines such as potatoes, snacks and confectionery. More than half of the vending machines in Japan are hot and cold beverage vending machines. Vending machines that sell fresh eggs, vegetables and fruits are growing and becoming more popular.
Coming to Japan, you will encounter a variety of special vending machines, providing many modern features, serving all consumer needs. Some types of machines such as batteries, books, umbrellas, pet foods, canned breads, so on.
Additionally, for the convenience of consumers when buying items that may make them embarrassed if buying directly at the store, Japan provides machines that sell products such as underwear, personal hygiene products, condoms, toilet paper, diapers, ….
Vending machine technology in Japan
Japan is the country with the most developed and modern vending machine technology in the world. JR East Water Business's "Acure" vending machines are high-tech, equipped with facial recognition software and touch screens. The machine can suggest customers the suitable drink based on their age and gender, if the facial recognition screen is not used, it will recommend the product based on time of the day and season.
Japan has the highest sales of vending machines in the world
Japan is the country with the highest sales of vending machines in the world, with annual sales of more than 5 trillion yen (about 50 million USD), and around 2 trillion yen (about 20 million USD) in contributions from beverages.
Modern payment methods
When making purchases at vending machines in Japan, besides paying with prepaid electronic IC cards, customers can also quickly pay through compatible applications on their phones . This app is very useful especially when the train is approaching and you do not have enough time to pay by coins.
Smoking area
In Japan, there are a few places where cigarette vending machines are installed outside the street. However, not everyone can come and use it, you will need to have an ID card to verify your age to be able to buy it.
Wine vending machine
Just like the cigarette vending machine, consumers need an ID code to request the vending machine sell for them. These machines are often found in hotels, amusement parks and residential areas that do not have many convenience stores. They sell all kinds of wine, beer by bottle or can.
Eco-friendly vending machine
Most vending machines in Japan are equipped with a trash can. This is not only because companies want to be environmentally responsible but it also responds to the habits of consumers - preferring to finish their drinks at the machine rather than buying take away, especially on subways, stations,...
Additionally, vending machines in Japan have built-in sensors and timers. At that time, the machine can detect the brightness of the surrounding environment and control the lighting time. The machine will automatically turn off the lights during the day and turn on at night, helping to save energy.
Disaster relief
In Japan, thousands of vending machines are programmed to provide free soft drinks during emergencies and natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. These machines contain backup batteries or generators so they can work even in the power outage.
Vending machines in Japan develop strongly not only in quantity but also in modern technology, bringing civilized and convenient shopping habits.