Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nichalas Davis. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Nichalas, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Taking care of customers isn’t just good business – it is often one of the main reasons folks went into business in the first place. So, we’d love to get a conversation going around how to best help clients feel appreciated – maybe you can share something you’ve done or seen someone do that’s been really effective at helping a customer feel valued?
One of the best initiatives I’ve implemented to show appreciation for customers is our loyalty rewards program through the Nayax Credit Card reader. This program not only allows customers to earn points for every purchase but also features monetary rewards that can be redeemed later.
Additionally, we’ve included scratch-off cards on the back of select vending products, giving customers a fun surprise and the chance to win extra discounts or freebies. This interactive element creates excitement and encourages repeat purchases.
While restocking machines, we also make it a point to hand out snacks to consumers. This personal touch not only makes customers feel valued but fosters a sense of community. Customers often express gratitude, and you can see the joy on their faces when they receive a complimentary treat. These efforts have built stronger relationships and loyalty, making customers feel truly appreciated.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m a Black man born and raised in Baltimore, and my journey into the vending industry has been deeply personal. I was searching for a way to find purpose and make a meaningful impact. Vending machines presented a unique opportunity for business ownership while allowing me to develop essential skills in communication, organization, marketing, and financial literacy.
In my vending machines, I focus on offering unique snacks and beverages that fuel the everyday working class through their shifts. I believe that providing quality options not only enhances their work experience but also shows that I understand their needs.
What truly sets me apart is my commitment to my family. I’m incredibly proud to have my sons involved in this journey with me. They witness firsthand what hard work and entrepreneurship look like, and I hope to instill in them the values of perseverance and dedication.
I want potential clients and followers to know that my brand is rooted in community and empowerment. I’m passionate about creating opportunities not just for myself but for others, and I aim to inspire those around me to pursue their dreams, no matter their background. Ultimately, my work is about more than just snacks; it’s about building a legacy and showing what’s possible through hard work and determination.
Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?
It’s funny this question has come up because I was just discussing it with a buddy. To fund my business, I made significant sacrifices in my personal life, setting aside money to purchase my first two vending machines and their inventory.
Initially, I relied on my 9-to-5 job to finance everything, which was tough. Balancing work and the demands of starting a business required discipline and a lot of late nights. However, that hard work paid off. Fast forward to now, I’ve expanded to eight machines, and I’m finally in a position to pay myself.
This journey has taught me the importance of patience and perseverance. Each machine represents not just a financial investment, but a commitment to my vision and the belief that hard work truly pays off.
We’d love to hear the story of how you turned a side-hustle into a something much bigger.
No, I haven’t made my vending business my full-time career yet, but continued growth suggests it’s definitely a possibility. I started by posting my business on Google to find potential locations in my area, which has proven to be incredibly beneficial—three of my four locations came from that effort.
One of my key milestones was turning my first location with two machines into four locations with eight machines. This expansion wasn’t just about the numbers; it was also about building relationships and networking through social media, which has helped me establish additional sites.
Looking ahead, my next milestone is purchasing a company box truck with a liftgate. This will streamline operations and allow for further growth. Overall, this journey has been about seizing opportunities and continuously adapting to reach my goals.
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