Business Plan

A clear path to modernizing vending: retrofit hardware, predictive analytics, and mobile workflows that reduce downtime, improve refills, and cut energy use for operators of all sizes.

Executive summary

VendCraft transforms the vending industry with embedded controllers, IoT telemetry, and AI-driven maintenance and inventory tools. Our modular approach lets operators upgrade existing fleets instead of replacing them, bringing enterprise-grade intelligence to small and mid-sized operators.

Embedded Edge Predictive ML Cloud Analytics Mobile Ops APIs

What we build

  • VendCore Edge — retrofit embedded controller + sensor suite
  • VendCraft Predict™ — ML models (RF/LSTM) for early fault forecasts
  • VendCraft Vision — inventory analytics & operator dashboard
  • RefillMate — technician mobile app for routes and fixes
  • API Integrations — ERP/CRM/logistics connectivity

Why it’s different

  • Retrofit-friendly: works with existing fleets
  • AI-native design for diagnostics & demand prediction
  • Low-cost hardware (target unit cost <$50)
  • 24/7 real-time ops dashboard
  • Energy-saving controller with sleep modes

Target market

Primary: independent operators, managed service providers, and campus vending networks. Secondary: OEMs, large retail kiosk companies, and franchise owners.

Roadmap

PhaseMilestoneTimeline
1VendCore prototype + initial sensorsMonths 1–3
2RF & LSTM model developmentMonths 3–5
3Vision dashboard (v1) & RefillMateMonths 5–7
4Pilot: 20–30 machines + feedback loopMonths 7–10
5Refinement & enterprise readinessMonths 10–12

Five-year targets

  • Year 1: MVP + pilot on ~30 machines; validate impact
  • Year 2: 500+ units across 3 U.S. states; refine business model & supply chain
  • Year 3: Full SaaS + hardware licensing; breakeven; national partnerships
  • Year 4: Expand product portfolio (e.g., cold-chain kiosks) and AI/ERP integrations
  • Year 5: National presence with 25,000+ connected machines; category leadership

Jobs & workforce development

Creating skilled roles while supporting partner networks.

Direct roles (Y1–Y5)

  • Embedded Systems Engineers (4–6 by Y5)
  • Data Scientists/ML Engineers (3–5)
  • Field Technicians (10–15)
  • Web/Mobile Developers (4–6)
  • Support/Onboarding (3–5)
  • Biz & Ops (2–3)

Indirect impact

  • Independent technician networks
  • Logistics & restocking partners
  • Local manufacturing & electronics vendors
  • Cloud/software service providers

Inclusion & training

  • Community college technician certifications
  • Veteran retraining programs
  • Partnerships in rural/underserved areas
Want the full plan or a partner deck?

We’ll tailor details to your fleet size, routes, and SLAs.

📩 Talk to our team