09/08/2025 A personal account details launching a vending machine business at 16.
Table of contents
Early Success
Inspired by “Rich Dad Poor Dad‚” the entrepreneur invested $1000 in 12 candy vending machines. Prime locations included high school‚ local businesses‚ and a swap meet‚ generating substantial profits.
Key Highlights:
- Rapid ROI: Recovered initial investment in 4-5 months.
- Significant profit: Averaged $50 profit per machine.
- Weekend earnings: $200-$300 daily at the swap meet.
Challenges and Lessons
Despite success‚ the business was sold at 24 due to ethical concerns about profiting from sugar and a lack of family support. The experience provided invaluable business lessons.
Transition and Advice
The profits were reinvested into commodities and options trading. For aspiring entrepreneurs‚ sourcing machines from Craigslist‚ building routes‚ documenting sales‚ and strategically keeping prime locations are recommended.
