Former Vermont Vending Operator Talks About Tough Times In Vending Due To R-Factor

Josh Patrick, former vending operator, recently shared his experience of vending’s infamous R-factor (reduction factor) in a New York Times blog and how it caused him to sell his family vending business in 1995. He reports competition from vending operators keeping two sets of books, allowing them to offer high percentage commission without paying high dollar amounts to locations. Full article.

Josh Patrick owned Patrick's Food Service Inc. in Burlington, Vt. In 1995, he sold the eight-route company to Desormeau Vending Corp. in Latham, N.Y. and to Burlington Pepsi Cola Co. in Burlington, Vt.