The Smart Cooler Craze!
In our latest "What Business Owners Want to Know" Series, we will explore smart coolers! How do they work? Are they right for your location? Read on to learn more!
William B. Elliott
2/11/2026
Smart coolers are transforming the way people keep beverages and snacks chilled and accessible. These innovative devices go beyond simple insulation, incorporating technology to enhance convenience and functionality.
As a business owner considering vending options for your location, smart coolers have a LOT to offer.
Compared to traditional vending, smart coolers have far less mechanical functionality meaning that the likelihood of malfunction is greatly reduced. What does this mean? The absence of coin mechanisms and motors means less chances of dollar bills being "eaten" and items getting stuck. Employees and guests simply unlock the door with their card, grab the items they want, shut the door and their card is charged! It's that easy.
And speaking of cards, smart coolers are a cashless option. What does this mean for business owners and location POCs? Not only the aforementioned reduced likelihood of malfunction, but also less risk for the location as no cash will be accessible through the cooler.
In terms of character and aesthetics, sometimes locations want vending options but do not want traditional vending machines. Smart coolers offer a sophistication that some locations will desire and will be right for their employee and customer base. If I can pin it down to what that "thing" is, it would be the micro-market feel.
How exactly do the smart coolers work? Cameras in the unit recognize items that are taken by employees and guests and charge appropriately. Software enables operators to rectify any irregularities quickly and easily.
If you think that a smart cooler may be a great option for your location, we would love to connect with you!
See below for a quick demonstration of a smart cooler purchase and an image of the receipt from that purchase.
William B. Elliott started Bill's Vending Solutions in 2024 and has steadily grown into an emerging, professional vending service provider. If you are in need of snack and beverage service for your business or location in the Columbia, South Carolina area, reach out to us today!
