In Japan, vending machines have been elevated to a state where practically anything can be purchased from them. People can literally do their grocery shopping, electronics shopping, and everything else in-between at these electronic kiosks.
The idea of selling items outside of just food and drink is catching on outside of Japan. Various airports around the US are displaying Best Buy and Sony vending machines
Inside the kiosk of "Best Buy Express" you’ll find Nintendo DS consoles, video games, headphones, MP3 players, flash drives, computer accessories and even unlocked phones.
As for the "Sony Access" vending machine, it has a healthy assortment of headphones and lots of PSP slims with a good selection of games such as Patapon, Crisis Core, and God of War.
The idea of vending machines at airports by Best Buy and Sony seems to be a good one. Airline passengers who are stuck at the airport due to flight delays or traveling on flights with nothing to do may be prime customers for picking up a handheld game console and a couple of games to pass the time away. Picking up a gift for friends or relatives may also be very good service for last minute shoppers.
"The launch of Best Buy Express is another way for Best Buy to provide consumers with the products they need from a brand they trust, even while they’re on the go," said Chris Stidman, the retailer’s strategic planning VP. "Whether travelers are looking to purchase a last-minute gift or are in need of replacement for a lost, forgotten or broken product, these kiosks will allow them to purchase the product they want from a brand they trust."
A big surprise is that the products displayed at these vending machines are sold at retail price and not inflated like other items you’d buy at the airport. We’re not sure how widespread these product kiosks are, but if they are successful, we may see more of them in other locations besides the airport.
It would be cool to see them at schools, but upon further thought, probably not.
