Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common question?
The most common question is about possible opening hours. The Munich Trade Office is currently of the opinion that vending machines are not subject to shop closing hours. You can obtain further information and advice from the Trade Office via the online contact form.
What is the most difficult aspect of planning?
Finding a good location is really difficult. Public streets, paths, squares and pedestrian areas are not suitable locations for vending machines. This is regulated by the special use regulations of the city of Munich. Public green spaces such as the English Garden, the Isarauen or the Flaucher are also not suitable for vending machines.
Regardless of the business idea, it is important to deal with the basic questions and issues when starting a business. Our roadmap shows important steps from the idea to the start.
Where can the advisors at the Munich Start-up Office provide specific help?
It is particularly important for us to draw attention to the relevant departments in the city administration that founders need to involve. These include, for example, the District Inspectorate and the Food Inspectorate of the District Administration Department, the Health Department and the Local Building Commission of the Department of Urban Planning and Construction.
Can vending machines be a business model and generate stable income?
Can the idea be turned into a successful business model? There is no single answer to this question. A carefully prepared and critically thought-out business plan with a meaningful text and figures section is an important basis for your successful start in self-employment. Our business plan template can help you with this.
The legal framework has a great influence. For example, a Bavarian law on shop closures is planned for this year, which will also include regulations for vending machines.
Two tips for entrepreneurs on their way
Start with a business plan and get feedback from 7 to 9 potential customers during the planning process so that you can continue to plan accordingly. Your customers' demand and willingness to buy will determine your success.
We recommend: Get all the information first and then get started. There are usually reasons why nearby sales opportunities go unfilled. Usually it is not because no one had the idea.
Detailed check list on request
In order to advise clients on this topic, the start-up team at munich business has compiled a comprehensive industry check on vending machines.
The guide (in German), which can be found at gruenden-muenchen.de, provides an overview of the most important steps from idea to implementation, as well as the most important contacts, for anyone who wants to plan with this topic.
If you are interested to receive this guide in English, please contact our consultant team below.
