Founding & Early Innovation
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Founded in 1937 in Kansas City by brothers Elmer F. and John T. Pierson, alongside J.E. Hagstrom. They innovated the “Red Top” lid system—bringing the opening to the user rather than requiring them to reach inside a cooler. Wikipedia
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During World War II, Vendo produced 5,000 Coke machines for military bases, earning seven Army-Navy “E” awards for manufacturing excellence. WikipediaGoogle Sites
Growth & Acquisition
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Post-war, the company expanded internationally, shipped to 20 countries by 1956, and developed multi-selection and automated convenience solutions. Wikipediasandenvendo.it
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In 1956, Vendo merged with rival Vendorlator, immediately going public. Wikipediasandenvendo.it
Challenges & Revival
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The 1970s oil crisis severely impacted Vendo’s operations; the company sold most assets and kept only its beverage distribution operations. WikipediaWikipedia
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In 1988, Vendo was acquired by Japan’s Sanden Corporation—branding later changed to Sanden Vendo America, Inc., with headquarters moving to Dallas, Texas in 2005. WikipediaSandenVendo America
Modern Role
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Today, Sanden Vendo America remains a leading U.S.-based vending manufacturer, branching into micro-market systems, glass-front vendors, and refrigeration units, still servicing major soft drink brands. SandenVendo America
Notable Vendo Coke Machine Models
| Model | Years | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Vendo A23 (Vendo 23) | 1949–1960 | Iconic long production span; red-and-white fishtail branding from 1958; ran on Kelvinator or Westinghouse cooling systems. grandamericajukebox.com |
| Vendo 39 | 1949–1957 | Round-top upright with embossed “ICE COLD” label, stainless coin plate, classic styling. grandamericajukebox.com |
| Vendo 83 (F83/Electric) | 1952–1955 | Offered electric coin mechanism (F83G), modernized vending with solenoid operation. grandamericajukebox.com |
| Vendo 110 (E110 / H110) | 1948–1959 | Large 110-bottle capacity, multi-drink select; early editions all-red, later models introduced coin front panels. grandamericajukebox.com |
| Vendo 56 | 1957–1959 | Round-top “little sister” to the Vendo 81; two-tone red and white, multi-selection capable, produced at Vendorlator plant. Fun-Tronics, LLC |