Original reference photography from the Cola Machines archive. Select any image to inspect the machine, mechanisms, identification plates, and restoration details.

Vendorlator Manufacturing Corporation (VMC) History

Founding and Early Years

• Established: 1937 in Chicago, Illinois.
• Founders: The company was founded by mechanical engineers with experience in vending equipment who wanted to produce reliable bottle vending machines for soda companies.
• Early Focus: VMC initially produced compact countertop and upright bottle vending machines, targeting small businesses, diners, and soda fountains. These machines primarily held 6.5 oz glass bottles.

1940s – Expansion

• World War II Impact: Production was slowed during the war due to metal shortages. VMC adapted by focusing on parts and repair services for existing machines.
• Post-War Growth: After the war, VMC ramped up production to meet the soda boom in the United States. The VMC 27 and 33 models became very popular for small and medium-sized locations.

1950s – Golden Era

• Major Models Introduced: VMC introduced upright machines capable of holding 44, 56, 72, 81, 88, and 110 bottles.
• Coca-Cola Licensing: VMC became a licensed manufacturer for Coca-Cola-branded vending machines. Their machines were painted Coca-Cola red (#60807-A) and white (#6731-A) with chrome accents.
• Innovations:
  • Split Door Design (VMC 33 Split Door): Allowed easier restocking and maintenance.
  • Dual-Chute Models (VMC Dual 27A): Could vend two types of beverages.
•  
• Cooling Systems: Transitioned from ice-cooled units to electric refrigeration using Tecumseh compressors (VT10, VT15).

1960s – High-Capacity Machines

• VMC began producing high-capacity upright machines, such as the VMC 126, 139, 154, 238, and 340, designed for high-traffic locations like theaters, train stations, and large stores.
• Machines continued to be manual coin-operated, typically accepting 10¢ coins, with reliable dispensing mechanisms.
• The company also produced specialized models like the 3D-33, although limited information exists on these units.

1970s – Decline and Transition

• Industry Competition: By the late 1960s, VMC faced stiff competition from companies like Vendo, Cavalier, and National Vendors, which introduced can vending machines and automated features.
• Focus Shift: VMC continued producing bottle machines but eventually declined in market share as the industry moved toward automated multi-beverage machines and larger can vending units.
• Legacy: Many VMC machines from the 1940s–1960s remain collectible today, prized for their durability, classic styling, and Coca-Cola branding.

Notable Contributions

• VMC machines were widely used across the U.S. in diners, small stores, and large venues.
• The company pioneered the split-door upright design, which influenced later vending machine designs.
• VMC machines are highly sought after by collectors, especially models like VMC 44, VMC 110, VMC 139, and VMC 33 Split Door