THE THREE "L's" of VENDING LOCATION LOCATION LOCATION There is an old saying in the real estate business that the three most important rules for successful real estate are location, location and location. The same thing is true in the vending business. In the right location, practically any vending machine can generate good revenue. The trick is to get enough of your machines in the right locations and then to service those machines with the right sort of merchandising. This is easier said than done. There are only a finite number of good locations and the competition for these locations is intense. Existing operators are experienced, frequently well financed and aggressive in seeking new locations. As a new operator, you may be able to find some good locations, but you will have to work harder and be better than your competition. If you rely on a professional locator, remember that the locator wants to get paid a long time before you know whether or not the location is good. All locations are not created equal. Try to pay the locator only a little up front and pay the balance after you can verify the location is successful. Ask the locator to find another location if the one selected does not work well. You should know within 30-60 days if a site is good.