Vending Machines and QR Codes - The Evolution of Japan's Vending Machine Culture
Japan's Vending Machines Are Number One in the World - Their Number and Variety
Japan has about 4 million vending machines installed, the highest number per capita in the world. That works out to about 1 machine for every 30 people, and they are distributed across the country at a density far exceeding the roughly 56,000 convenience stores. Japan is probably the only country where you can buy all kinds of things from a vending machine, not just drinks but also sweets, cup noodles, rice balls, frozen foods, bouquets, amulets, and even edible insects.
With QR codes joining this "vending machine nation," the vending machine experience is changing significantly. From machines that simply sell products to platforms that provide information, create entertainment, and connect with the local community. QR codes are the key to expanding the possibilities of vending machines.
How QR Code Payment Is Changing the Shopping Experience
QR code payment at vending machines is no longer unusual. Vending machines that support major QR code payment services such as PayPay, LINE Pay, Rakuten Pay, and d Barai are increasing rapidly. There is no need to hunt for coins, and a purchase is completed just by holding up your smartphone.
Introducing QR code payment also has benefits for vending machine operators. The costs of collecting / managing cash are reduced, and sales data can be tracked in real time. Based on data such as "Coffee sells well at this vending machine at 3 p.m." or "Sports drink sales double in summer," the product lineup can be optimized.
As an interesting example, there are vending machines where the chance of winning a "prize" goes up when you buy with QR code payment. If you buy with cash, the chance of winning is the usual one, but if you buy with QR code payment, the chance doubles. It is a campaign aimed at both promoting the use of the payment service and increasing the vending machine's sales at the same time.
Tourist Information Through Vending Machine QR Codes
Initiatives have started in various places in which QR codes are attached to vending machines at tourist spots, and scanning them displays nearby sightseeing spots, restaurants, and transportation information. Because vending machines are installed everywhere in tourist areas, they function as information hubs that "you are sure to see as you walk around."
In Okinawa, a service is being trialed in which scanning a QR code on a vending machine displays beaches, cafes, and hands-on activities within walking distance of that spot, together with a map. Even without going to a tourist information center, the vending machine right in front of you becomes a tour guide.
At local specialty vending machines (vending machines that sell products only available in that region), there are also systems in which scanning a QR code displays the story of the product's maker and information about where the ingredients come from. Information such as "This local cider is made with spring water from the area" raises the added value of the product and makes it more attractive as a souvenir.
Vending Machines and QR Codes During Disasters
Among Japan's vending machines are "disaster-response vending machines" that provide drinks for free during disasters. When a power outage occurs due to an earthquake or typhoon, the vending machine's lock is released, and the drinks inside can be taken out for free.
Initiatives to combine these disaster-response vending machines with QR codes are progressing. A QR code is posted on the side of the vending machine, and scanning it displays the location of the nearest evacuation shelter, information on water supply points, and how to use the Disaster Emergency Message Dial. Because a vending machine continues to exist physically even when it loses power, the QR code (printed on paper) also continues to function in the same way.
The operation of QR codes in which local governments and beverage makers work together, showing regular advertising and tourist information in normal times and switching to disaster prevention information during disasters, is also being considered. With a dynamic QR code, it is possible to switch the link destination according to the situation.
The Vending Machines of the Future - New Possibilities Opened Up by QR Codes
The combination of vending machines and QR codes is still in the process of evolving. Here are some developments expected in the future.
Subscription vending machines: If you pay a monthly fee, you can get 1 free drink a day from the eligible vending machines. QR codes handle user authentication and management of the number of uses. This has already been introduced on a trial basis in some office buildings.
Reducing food waste: A system in which products close to their best-before date are sold at a discount, and a discount coupon is applied when you scan a QR code. It achieves both a reduction in food waste and a sense of a good deal for consumers.
Health management integration: The intake of sugar and caffeine is automatically calculated from the purchase history of QR code payments and linked to a health app. Personalized suggestions such as "You have bought 3 coffees today, so water is recommended next" are also technically possible.