Tokyo (Agency) – Demand for drinks sold through ‘vending machines’ is declining in Japan. This has affected the long-standing vending machine culture.

Vending machines in Japan are found not only in post offices, parks, train stations, roadsides, but also in remote places such as Mount Fuji. But now, due to inflation, the business is under pressure as consumers’ purchasing power is affected.

Vending machines usually hold drinks, snacks, cigarettes, food or other small items.

In recent years, inflation has risen sharply in Japan, which has also directly affected the beverage industry. As fuel, transportation, electricity and maintenance costs increase, operating vending machines has become more expensive. In addition, the cost of manpower to fill, repair and manage the machines has also increased. For all these reasons, the profits of companies are also decreasing.

As profits decline, large companies are reducing the use of vending machines. Some companies have decided to remove thousands of machines, while others are preparing to sell their vending businesses. 

Vending machines were once very popular in Japan because they were easy and readily available. But now, due to high prices, consumers are choosing cheaper drinks available at supermarkets, convenience stores, etc. It is relatively more expensive to buy drinks from vending machines than at such stores.

That is why consumers are turning to other options. Another reason is the increase in environmental awareness. Consumers are starting to carry reusable bottles,