Whether you're a curious consumer who encountered a 99 Spoons machine or an entrepreneur evaluating the vending opportunity, questions come up. Here are the answers to our top 10 most frequently asked questions about 99 Spoons soft serve vending.
FAQ #1: How fresh is the soft serve from a vending machine?
Very fresh. 99 Spoons machines dispense soft serve on demand from refrigerated soft serve mix. This is not pre-packaged or pre-frozen product — it's freshly prepared at the moment of your order. The mix has a specific shelf life and is maintained at precise temperatures within the machine, ensuring you always receive a fresh product.
FAQ #2: Is the machine sanitary?
Yes. 99 Spoons machines carry dual NAMA and NSF certifications — the industry gold standard for vending machine sanitation. Operators follow detailed cleaning protocols, and the automated dispensing system minimizes human contact with the product. Health departments across the United States have approved these machines.
FAQ #3: What payment methods are accepted?
99 Spoons machines accept all major credit and debit cards, contactless tap-to-pay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other digital wallets through the integrated Nayax card reader. Cash is not accepted.
FAQ #4: How much does a 99 Spoons machine cost?
Machines are priced at $17,499 for a single unit. Volume pricing is available: $16,999 per machine for 2 units, and $16,499 per machine for 3 units. Monthly fees include $49 for the remote management software and $10 for the Nayax card reader.
FAQ #5: Do I need food service experience to operate a machine?
No. 99 Spoons provides comprehensive in-person training covering all aspects of operation, maintenance, and software management. Most operators complete training in about two hours and are fully prepared to run their machine independently.
FAQ #6: How do I find a location for my machine?
99 Spoons partners with third-party location procurement specialists who have established relationships with facility managers at hospitals, colleges, entertainment venues, malls, military bases, and hotels nationwide. Operators can also independently identify and negotiate locations. Our team provides guidance throughout this process.
FAQ #7: Can I manage my machine remotely?
Yes. The 99 Spoons remote management platform ($49/month) provides real-time visibility into sales data, inventory levels, machine health, and technical status from any device with internet access. Most operators check their dashboard daily in under 5 minutes.
FAQ #8: What ongoing support is available?
24/7 technical support from industry veterans is available to all 99 Spoons operators. Support includes phone, email, and remote diagnostic assistance. Comprehensive operating and technical manuals (in English) are provided, and the operator community of 150+ colleagues provides peer knowledge sharing.
FAQ #9: Can I brand the machine with my own logo?
Yes. 99 Spoons offers custom branding options, allowing operators to customize the machine's appearance with their own brand identity or that of a host venue. This is popular with corporate, hospitality, and entertainment operators who want a branded experience.
FAQ #10: How quickly can I get a machine up and running?
Most operators receive their machine within one week of order confirmation. The white-glove delivery includes professional installation. After training (approximately two hours), the machine is ready to operate. From initial contact to live machine typically takes 2–4 weeks.
Have more questions? Visit 99spoons.com to connect with our team directly.