Our customer stories: Vinny Vending Machines

We spoke to Vinny Vending Machines, a self-made vegan vending machine business based in London. Find out more about how the founders at Vinny use their storage unit at Space Station Swiss Cottage to run their business.

My son and I started the business three years ago, back in 2020, but as the business began to grow, we knew it was time to take on a bigger location. So, in February 2022, we took on our first Space Station storage unit.  

What made you want to start your own business?  

It all started when my son expressed his desire to initiate a vegan-based business. Having left my job as a city banker a few years prior, I eagerly embraced the opportunity to form a partnership with him and channel my fresh entrepreneurial spirit. Recognizing a gap in the market, my son pinpointed the potential for vegan vending machines, igniting the beginning of our journey.

What advice would you give someone wanting to start a side business?  

Having a true passion for what you want to pursue is key – without it, you will quickly find that it’s hard to stay consistent. Make sure you’re fully committed, as running your own business can be very challenging at times, so having that genuine passion can make all the difference in helping you overcome those obstacles. And finally, be honest with yourself: figure out the “why” and map out the “how” before you make the leap.

How would you describe your business?  

We are a plant-based business with a focus on vending channels as well as an online gifting service. We cater to both businesses and individuals.

Why did you choose to run your business from a self-storage unit, rather than a traditional business/ office location?  

As my business began to grow, my top priority was accessible storage, which is exactly what a Space Station unit provides. It’s super convenient and the perfect proximity from my own home allowing for both quick in-and-out access as well as more involved storage tasks. 

What are your business plans/ goals for the future?  

Right now, our vending machines are predominantly London centric and so we’re gearing up to expand beyond the city within the next few years. On the flip side, our ecommerce gifting service is currently operating at an international level, but we hope to progress even further by venturing into new markets in the near future. 

If you are able to supply, how much money did you use to start up your business?  

I initially invested £200k. I see the business as an ongoing investment for my son and I.

If you are able to supply, what was the turnover if your first year of trading from a self-storage unit?  

With ongoing work, we will have £100k in capital in the next year, and I anticipate balancing out in three years. 

What was the one unexpected thing you’ve learned/discovered during your new venture?    

Since starting Vegan Vending Machines, one big lesson I’ve learned is that consumer preferences are incredibly diverse. To thrive, your business proposition needs to be crystal clear, and if necessary, don’t hesitate to reach out directly to your consumers.

However, the main thing I have discovered during this venture is the brilliance of the team at Space Station, they have gone above and beyond my expectations. The Swiss Cottage site is well maintained, accessible and the team that run this location are fantastic. They are very supportive, flexible and their customer service is extraordinary.