Automatic Cup-sized Vending Machine in Scenic Area

In June 2023, Ms. Liu, the head of the management department at Huangshan Scenic Area, led the introduction of three tea beverage vending machines. These machines were installed at rest platforms with high visitor flow but insufficient commercial facilities.

The equipment is operated in collaboration between the scenic area and local tea enterprises, offering locally sourced specialty teas. Each beverage uses independently packaged whole-leaf tea bags, and the machines are equipped with a precision temperature control system to ensure the brewing temperature meets the requirements of different tea varieties.

Before the project's implementation, these rest areas only had basic seating facilities. According to scenic area statistics, the daily visitor flow at the installation points ranged from 2,500 to 3,000 people, but the consumption conversion rate was less than 3%. After the machines were put into use, the average visitor stay time increased from about 6 minutes to approximately 15 minutes.

In terms of operational management, the machines support mobile payments. Scenic area staff restock the machines twice daily, in the morning and evening, while cleaning and maintenance are incorporated into the existing custodial duties. Data from the end of 2023 shows that each machine sells an average of 80 to 120 cups per day, with sales exceeding 200 cups during holidays. Over the six-month operational period, the three machines generated approximately 180,000 RMB in direct revenue for the scenic area.