Interval versus Cumulative DEX Data

In the DEX standard, just about every data element or reading is provided in two separate data fields. The first is referred to ‘interval’ or ‘reset-able’ data, while the second is referred to as ‘cumulative’ data. Interval fields are reset to zero after every DEX read, while cumulative fields keep on accumulating much like a car’s odometer or a cash meter in a vending machine.

While it might be easier to use interval readings in your Antares operation, it is preferable to only use the cumulative readings and let your software system do the work of computing the difference between the readings.

Two basic data collection methods

There two broad methods for collecting DEX data:

· Via a handheld computer carried by the route driver.

· Via a remote monitoring solution.

All remote systems share some common attributes:

· They can all poll the Antares vending machine DEX system at predefined intervals.

· For systems where there are communication costs, the data is pulled nightly.

If the communication costs are insignificant, the data can be collected more often. However, since collecting the DEX data typically takes the vending machine ‘off-line’ for 10 to 40 seconds, you would not want to do this during the busy periods of your Antares vending operation.

Remote monitoring works most of the time. However, when a problem occurs, a service visit to the machine may be required to correct the problem. Potential problems may include an antenna being displaced or vandalized, or the connection between your office and the machine being lost.

Handheld won’t become obsolete

At the end of the day, the best system may involve a combination of different methods. An early hope of the remote DEX collection systems was that driver handhelds would not be needed. Since most drivers use handhelds for other purposes like inventory control, product planograms changes, and collecting additional data (like refunds and test vends), most Antares operators would still choose to use handhelds even if most machines have remote connections. In some circumstances where a single product is vended out of a machine, the driver may be able to service the machine without a handheld.

DEX: The Key to Intelligent Vending

The key development in the evolution of intelligent vending has been the Data Exchange, better known as DEX. This is a protocol for the transfer of information from a vending machine to a data collection device. The data is stored in the electronic circuit board. The electronic standard describes how information fields are transferred, such as price sales, currency and meter readings. It took many years for vending hardware and software engineers to develop a DEX standard that equipment manufacturers could agree on.

There are a number of operators who have encountered problems when installing the DEX systems in their machines. This however, is a problem that can be countered. As an Antares vending operator, you can have the system installed in your vending machines, so that you can look forward to higher sales.

DEX allows for customized machine planograms

Without technology in your Antares vending machines it is hard to know what the consumer wants. Without DEX data, you wouldn’t be able to make knowledge- based product decisions. This goes to show that DEX allows for customized machine planograms.

DEX handhelds will also give you data that you need daily. You will find that column-level sales data invaluable in developing profitable machine menus. Every machine has a number of facings and they will each get a different monthly planogram, which will be based on detailed sales reports.

DEX brings multiple benefits to vending

Vending operators of all sizes have found that once DEX works, because it provides tangible operating benefits. In addition to this, operators can expand into DEX slowly, one route at a time, and/or one set of benefits at a time.

Some Antares vending operators have been hesitant to expand into DEX thinking. They think that if they did, the technology would eventually become obsolete. There have been questions that have been raised on whether DEX handhelds would become obsolete once remote data reporting become a viable option. These systems would utilize the same DEX ports as handhelds. This is the reason why Antares vending operators are encouraged to invest in DEX. It is after all the key to intelligent vending.

Intelligent Vending

As vending operators continue to struggles with low work site populations, many have found emerging technology is providing new ways to operate more profitably. Established Antares operators have often found themselves as a disadvantage competing against newcomers who are arming themselves with state of the art computer systems that allow faster and more accurate accountability of machine and route activity.

Advances in vending-specific software demand higher start-up costs, but this will pay off in a more efficient Antares operation.

Cashless and intelligent vending

Cashless solutions are one of several benefits associated with intelligent vending. Some industry observers were quoted as saying that cashless will actually drive intelligent vending, and it will lead Antares operators to discover the other benefits of telemetry-such as polling line item sales and machine malfunctions-from a remote computer.

Cashless solutions and remote data polling are separate benefits. As technology evolves, operators using either of these benefits do not necessarily use both. Most operators are almost evenly divided on which of these key areas-cashless and remote data polling- they are focusing on. So far not a lot are expanding from one area of concentration into the other.

A revolution

Using these advances in your Antares vending business will bring in more financial benefits for your business. This can also help you to be at par with the competition. You will no longer have to compete with the new comers in the industry who are already using this technology. Technology has the potential to revolutionize the vending industry.

To date, many cashless systems are being used primarily as selling tools. But in the process, operators have now begun to understand the different cashless and intelligent vending technologies. Those who are first to familiarize themselves with the technologies will be the first to profit from them.

As with all new technology, there is a learning curve.

Handling Irate Customers

In business, irate customers are a fact of life. Keeping the customers of your Antares vending business happy and satisfied is very important. That means the people the people who speak with and deal with customers control the future- and the destiny of their company. When a customer is angry, or you are unable to deliver the way they expect, the formula that will make them forgive you, continue to do business with you, and tell others about you is: “React, Respond and Recover.”

If a customer is unhappy about something in a vending business, then that would mean that an operator would need to react, respond and recover. One thing that is very important in any vending business is that, no operator would want to lose any of the customers that they already have. Acquiring and retaining customers is something that is not easy to do. The one thing that should always be on your mind as an Antares operator is keeping the customers happy and dealing with irate customers in the right way.

Use the right words

If a customer is irate then the words that you use in such a situation are critical. Defensive words, lame excuses, bad attitude and other negative acts of stupidity only fuel the fire and anger the customer further. You would need to get empathetic as fast as you can. Start your response with one of four phrases: 1) “Oh, that’s horrible,” 2) “Thank you for telling me that,” 3) “No problem!” or 4) “You’re in luck!” These types of phrases show the customer that you care. This means that they can put you on the path to begin to resolve the problem. This would be the best way to deal with the customers of your Antares vending business. For most people the first instinct when speaking to an angry customer is to apologize. You should avoid doing this.

You need to be aware of the big picture

Whenever there is problem with one of the customers, first and foremost, you would need to take responsibility for whatever has happened, even if the fault isn’t yours. All the customer wants is for you to handle the problem. It is important to be aware of some practical realities when trying to accomplish the task of satisfying the customer. The customer knows exactly how they want it, or what exactly they want, but may be a lousy communicator and not tell you completely. As the Antares operator, it would be your job to understand. Word of mouth will help you or haunt you as you market yourself.

Vehicle of Choice for Vending Operators

Product upsizing, particularly the 20-ounce plastic bottles, have placed heavier demands on vending trucks. When purchasing a vending truck, Antares operators have to consider vehicle capabilities, ease of use and driver comfort features.

The weights of trucks are on the rise. With 20 and 16 ounce cold drink bottles taking up more space, loads are getting heavier on both the driver who is lifting them and the vehicle that is carrying them. This means that suspension systems have to be stronger and the body of the vehicle has to have more room. The bottles can also be arranged in such a way that will minimize how much the driver has to bend and lift.

The traditional step-in van continues to be the vehicle of choice among vending operators. The advantage step offers ease of loading for the driver. Step vans enable the driver access to the merchandise without leaving the vehicle.

More options to consider

Antares operators have discovered that there are other options to consider when it comes to minimizing the driver’s workload and at the same time achieving greater cost efficiencies. Bigger chassis can offer enhanced driver comfort, better maneuverability and greater costs efficiency over the long haul.

When purchasing a truck, individual needs must be considered. Vending operators can decide to have dedicated beverage trucks, and are more likely to have a built in cooler.

Ease of loading should be the top priority when purchasing a new route vehicle for your vending business by Antares Corporation. The increase in truck loads has encouraged operators to pay more attention to driver comfort, both inside and outside the truck cab. An efficient internal layout will minimize effort expended loading and unloading.

The most common mistake operators make when buying a truck, is underestimating the vehicle weight. Antares operators should assess the actual weight of a typical route truck before deciding on what size chassis to get. A comfortable cab will improve the driver’s morale and thus enhance his or her attention to the task at hand.

Small Location Concepts Reduce Service Needs

If a location loses people, Antares vending operators will look for ways to reduce operating costs and replace unprofitable accounts. Under such situations, operators typically consider less profitable locations. When they do this, competition for smaller accounts increases, making even this segment of the market less profitable.

Servicing a small location profitably continues to remain a challenge. Most established Antares vending operators shun small locations, while those with open minds will at least find the new products worth looking at.

Some small location machines are designed to reduce service time by means of interchangeable, preloaded cartridges, in addition to other features.

Equipment costs keep rising

Antares vending operators and manufacturers have struggled for years to find ways to serve small locations. The challenge has become harder as costs have increased much faster than the prices operators can charge for vended products.

Equipment manufacturers have found ways to take cost out of equipment, but this typically results in reduced capacity and product variety. Some operators have come up with plans to charge for service equipment, which allows the location to operate the machines.

Honor boxes

One method that is being widely used is honor boxes, where the operator places a tray of snacks and customers pay on the honor system. This arrangement is ideal for accounts with fewer than 20 employees. However, the high product shrinkage and high customer turnover requires ongoing account solicitation to maintain profitability.

A random survey of vending operators revealed widespread skepticism about small location vending. Operators and suppliers both agreed that small locations as a whole will continue to be the domain of inexperienced vendors.

There will always be a market for small location vending, due to he low cost of entry into the business. If you want to start of your new vending business by Antares Corporation with a small investment, then a small location would be ideal for you. This segment has a rapid turnover.

Running a Vending Business

To start off with, there is a lot that you would need to learn about the vending business. You should be willing to learn and not be afraid to make mistakes. In the long run, all this will serve you well.

Antares vending by Natural Choice will offers a viable opportunity for someone willing to work hard. To start off, you will most likely be running your business from your home. You can also rent space in an industrial warehouse. Whether or not you need additional help for your Antares business depends on the number of machines that you have. Since most operators start off their business from home, then it would be wise to engage the help of your family.

Focus on profitability

The location for your Antares vending machines is very important. Make sure that you match the right machine with the right location. You can acquire a truck that is fitted with wooden racks, freezer or a refrigerated cooler. This will be used for the transportation of the snacks and beverages.

If you give personal service top your customers, you will lose very few accounts or maybe none at all. Get to know the first and last names of 80 percent of the contacts in your accounts. It is also very important that you listen to product requests. You can go out of you way by providing products that aren’t big sellers just to make the decision makers happy.

Health awareness creates a challenge

Health products are an issue in some locations. You can have snacks that are 50% healthy or 100% healthy in your locations. It all depends on the need of that particular location. If you are experiencing lower sales in these locations, perhaps the location manager will allow you to increase prices.

Eye on technology

Technology is now being widely used in the vending industry. With the successful running of your Antares vending business, you will eventually be able to afford DEX handhelds and curbside polling. DEX will make it possible for you to hire a driver and not have to worry about relying on the driver’s judgment for selecting products. DEX would also allow electronic cash audit, which will give you better cash accountability. Curbside polling can reduce service time. Finding reliable help continues to be a challenge, so you will need to find the best route driver to take care of the route.

Running a Vending Business

To start off with, there is a lot that you would need to learn about the vending business. You should be willing to learn and not be afraid to make mistakes. In the long run, all this will serve you well.

Antares vending by Natural Choice will offers a viable opportunity for someone willing to work hard. To start off, you will most likely be running your business from your home. You can also rent space in an industrial warehouse. Whether or not you need additional help for your Antares business depends on the number of machines that you have. Since most operators start off their business from home, then it would be wise to engage the help of your family.

Focus on profitability

The location for your Antares vending machines is very important. Make sure that you match the right machine with the right location. You can acquire a truck that is fitted with wooden racks, freezer or a refrigerated cooler. This will be used for the transportation of the snacks and beverages.

If you give personal service top your customers, you will lose very few accounts or maybe none at all. Get to know the first and last names of 80 percent of the contacts in your accounts. It is also very important that you listen to product requests. You can go out of you way by providing products that aren’t big sellers just to make the decision makers happy.

Health awareness creates a challenge

Health products are an issue in some locations. You can have snacks that are 50% healthy or 100% healthy in your locations. It all depends on the need of that particular location. If you are experiencing lower sales in these locations, perhaps the location manager will allow you to increase prices.

Eye on technology

Technology is now being widely used in the vending industry. With the successful running of your Antares vending business, you will eventually be able to afford DEX handhelds and curbside polling. DEX will make it possible for you to hire a driver and not have to worry about relying on the driver’s judgment for selecting products. DEX would also allow electronic cash audit, which will give you better cash accountability. Curbside polling can reduce service time. Finding reliable help continues to be a challenge, so you will need to find the best route driver to take care of the route.

The Website Home Page for the Vending Company

The method of a website must feature a creative layout and artistically pleasing graphics and design features. Innovative developments can have a significant impact on site traffic.

What the home page should be

A website’s home page should inform visitors about the Antares vending business, products and the locations it services. The home page must not be just an index or hyperlink to other pages residing locally or remotely. Home page content often includes such reasonable items as a vision or mission statement, history of business, philosophy of business, and the like. The home page should be interesting and inviting.

There should also be information about product lines (goods and services) and the ability to communicate electronically with the company staff can be very valuable home page features.

Elements of good domain name

The domain name should be descriptive, unique, short and memorable. The Antares vending business should have their Internet address name to parallel their business name.

Effective graphics

Effective graphics are auto-load images of a relatively small size in matter of three to seven seconds. Larger graphics may take longer than that to display. This may drive visitors elsewhere. Not all visitors will have a PC capable of displaying a broad spectrum (e.g. 256 colors), and hence Web graphics should tested in a lower color system.

Incorporating well designed graphics and background colors for your Antares business website can make the website look very attractive. Choosing bright backgrounds and applying contrasting color text can help the Antares vending company present a crisp and fresh online image. The background color should subtly complement the accompanying text.

An individual Web page for your Antares business should not exceed the equivalent of two typed pages of information. Pages that are beyond this prescribed length should be broken into additional, separate pages. These pages should only have relevant hyperlinks, not all known links.

The home page of a website should overall be attractive and have all the relevant information of the company. It should have the ability to grab the attention of the visitor.

Acquiring and Equipping the Customer

There are important parallels between the operation of a machine shop and a full line vending business. Both of these depend heavily upon expensive capital equipment that seems to last forever. Growth and customer satisfaction are very important to any business.

Traditional view

The average Antares operator equates growth with the acquisition of new locations. He would firstly hire expensive salespeople to seek out new customers and he would be usually prepared to invest substantial sums and/or take on additional debt to pay for the new state-of-the-art machines to equip the new account. In addition to this, he sits back and looks at his existing customers as cash cows.

After all, we all know that if vending equipment is properly maintained, it would last a very long time.

You can do more than the other guy

The average Antares operator goes to bed each evening praying that his competitors are not out there offering his locations the same deals with new equipment that he is offering to their locations. All this can be in vain because there are too many operators sitting on warehouses full of older equipment that they have picked from locations they have lost to aggressive competition. No cost is too high to acquire a new location, and any cost is too high to preserve an existing location.

Existing customers hold the key

Existing customers are more valuable than future customers. With existing customers, you have already fielded the cost of acquiring and equipping the customer, and presumably you already enjoy some level of credibility with them, based upon the quality of product and service you have provided.

In addition, you should be aware of their needs and desires and also have intimate knowledge of the level of revenue they can produce.

Higher selling prices, lower commissions, the possibility of subsidies, and contract extensions to allow the Antares vending operator time to amortize the new investment, are all subjects for renegotiation.

New equipment provides benefits for the operator as well as the location. Newer equipment requires fewer service calls. Higher capacity equipment produces lower route labor and vehicle costs for the operator. This will result in higher sales for the Antares business.