With rising costs, robots are transforming how we get our food. High-tech vending machines are becoming a cheaper alternative to traditional shops. Jonathan Mussaad’s Cake Mail machine in Sydney’s Chatswood is a prime example.
A Trend from Japan
In Japan, vending machines sell everything from ice cream to fresh eggs. This idea is spreading to Australia. Melbourne’s Rialto Towers has had a Dom Perignon vending machine since 2017.
Southern Cross Station has added many vending machines after businesses closed during the pandemic.
Thailand’s Influence
Thailand’s Forth Corporation has over 6,000 drink vending machines. They brought their first Australian machine, Flying Turtle, to Melbourne. According to Panrapee Kwong, rising costs and the need for after-hours options drove this expansion.
Flying Turtle plans to place ten machines at RMIT University, offering coffee, iced tea, and other drinks. They also plan to introduce machines that mix cocktails with Asian flavors.
More Than Just Drinks
In Sydney, Chop Butchery founder Dave Funnell installed meat vending machines, offering an alternative to supermarkets. Some worry about job losses, but entrepreneurs like Matheson say these machines create new jobs for delivery drivers and bakers.
Variety in Melbourne
Melbourne’s vending machines offer a wide range of products. Cake Creations by Kate sells mini cakes and cupcakes. Flying Turtle’s machines serve lattes and Thai milk tea. Dear Frankie offers gourmet choc tops 24/7.
Thieves curates a selection of iced coffees and specialty drinks. I Heart Snacks combines vending with an arcade game experience, offering treats like Tim Tams. Kori provides Japanese-inspired ice cream, and Market Lane offers coffee beans and brewing supplies.
A New Way to Eat
Vending machines are making gourmet items and daily essentials more accessible and convenient in Melbourne. This revolution is changing how we think about food and drink.
