Recently, Freshbo launched in ’s-Gravenzande, the Netherlands; a shop without a greengrocer, but with fruit and vegetable vending machines. The name of the shop, Freshbo, is a reference to the Febo, a chain that sells fried snacks from vending machines. “We sell fresh produce products, which should be available and affordable for everyone,” says owner Marieke Palland. Staff is a major debit item, and by selling fresh produce via a vending machine, Freshbo can have very competitive prices: a punnet of grapes or cherries for 1 euro, strawberries for 1.80 and five avocados for 1 euro. Customers can choose their own products.
By ticking on the sliding door, the machine knows which product the customer wants. You can pay with a debit card, phone or cash, and the selected door slides open. Customers respond enthusiastically to the concept and the prices. “Responses have been overwhelming,” Marieke says. She’ll be in the shop during the coming days to guide customers.
The idea to launch Freshbo started with the strawberry vending machine they already had. Marieke: “People were so happy they could buy affordable strawberries. We continued developing that idea.” The aim is to offer both fruit and vegetables for low budget prices. The vending machine consists of large and small compartments that are filled with fresh products every day. Marieke: “The assortment changes depending on supply, you won’t find a 2-euro cauliflower in our shop, but you will find a pound of asparagus for 1.50 euro.” Freshbo buys from both wholesalers and growers. “We’re close to the Westland, a lot , although not everything, can be found there. We also have to find out which products are in demand. If affordable, we also offer organic products.”
Besides the favourable prices, opening times of the vending machine shop are a plus as well. “We personally don’t actually have to be present. From experience, we know that a shop can sometimes feel like an open prison, once opened, you can never leave it. Freshbo is open every day from 8 AM to 9 PM, including in the weekends. Using a camera system, I can keep an eye on the shop from home,” Marieke concludes.
For more information:
Freshbo groente en fruit voor iedereen
Langestraat 118
's-Gravenzande, the Netherlands
@Freshbo
