Vending machines take Bulawayo by storm

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THE overwhelming response by Bulawayo residents on smart vending machines that dispense beverages has seen Smart Machines (Pvt) Ltd expanding foothold, an official has said.

THE overwhelming response by Bulawayo residents to smart vending machines that dispense beverages has seen Smart Machines (Pvt) Ltd expanding its foothold in the city, an official has said.

STAFF REPORTER

The firm started trading with two machines in March at Haddon and Sly and another at the Parkade Centre, but it is now has six operating across the city.

Siphokuhle Nkomazana, Smart Machines representative, and Delphine Sibanda, machine attendant, serve customers at a drink vending machine
Siphokuhle Nkomazana, Smart Machines representative, and Delphine Sibanda, machine attendant, serve customers at a vending machine

Siphokuhle Nkomazana, a Smart Machines representative, said they were expanding rapidly due to the warm reception.

“We started with only two machines in March, but we now have six and trading at CIPF Bradlows Building, Bulawayo Centre, Naiks 6th Avenue and Pioneer Building.

“The expansion is largely due to an overwhelming response from the public, who have found it more convenient to buy drinks on the go rather than to queue at a shop for several minutes” she said.

However, the only stumbling block was the shortage of bond coins.

“We now use a coupon system because of the shortage of bond coins, but we hope the situation will improve soon,” Nkomazana said.

Going forward, Nkomazana said the firm plans to set up bases at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport and selected private schools and as well as hospitals and areas with huge traffic flows.