The KO vending machines have been a hit throughout this school year. Located at the end of the athletics hallway, the two appliances sell snacks, drinks, and happiness and sanity to our Wyvern population. After declaring myself the biggest spender on KO’s goods, I found it fitting that I should share my honest review of the system as a whole.
I love the KO vending machines for two main reasons: their convenience and wide selection. With this being my fourth year as a KO student, I have gotten to know the vending machines pretty well. Out of all my years, this one definitely takes the cake.
The convenience the two vending machines create might be too convenient in my case, but when lunch is after multiple classes and community time, who can blame me? No matter where I am on campus, the vending machines are always a quick walk away, and a guaranteed snack is all I need to hear to make the trip.
As for selection, I just cannot resist. My favorite items to get are Welch’s fruit snacks. The refreshing gummies can’t be replicated. When I am really hungry, I get all three flavors, but in most cases, I stick with my tried-and-true, Berries N’ Cherries. The wide variety of snacks and drinks allows every student to find one they like. A few other favorites of mine are Skinny Pop and Pop Corners. Recently, I have noticed an addition of protein bars and protein shakes, and overall healthier options. This is not only better for the health of all students, but it also provides more substantial options that can fuel an active body for longer.
When I think of the vending machines, few negatives cross my mind. With that being said, there appears to be a certain shrinkflation that is taking over the machines. The sizing of a majority of items seems to be getting on the smaller side as each restock occurs, while the prices remain the same. While other items’ prices have risen, and with drinks like coconut water seeing prices of over $3.00, the student body can’t help but notice. The restockers of the vending machines definitely know how to work with supply and demand.
My final critique of the KO vending machines is that they don’t always work. I, among others, find it annoying when our purchases get stuck. I then have to buy the same item again, and spend double to money just to get what I paid for.
All things considered, I won’t stop buying from the vending machines. I have tried everything to cut back on my spending, both time and money-wise, but it appears all roads lead back to that corner in athletics. While the pricing, sizing, and functionality of the machines can vary, they have helped me more times than I can count. I can proudly say as a KO student that the vending machines are deeply rooted in my time here at KO. Due to their convenience, selection, and annoying but minuscule flaws, I fully support KO’s vending machines and applaud them for the generational run they are currently on.
