A change is coming to the colleges in the Ventura County Community College District.
Some students may not even notice a change has been made, let alone all the thought that went in to planning it.
From Feb.16th to March 1st, all vending machines in the district will be replaced with new vending machines from First Class Vending.
Susan Johnson, vice chancellor of business and administrative services for VCCCD explained that the decision to replace the vending machines came out of necessity.
“Service level was not high, our profits were not maximized,” she said.
There are a total of 25 vending machines in the district, and before the change, three different brands of vending machines were used which made for different fees, products and profits for the district.
According to the proposal used by the Board of Trustees, commission to the school from First Class Vending sales will be 35 percent as opposed to the current 16-20 percent profit.
Terry Cobos, director of general services says the district is unsure if they’ll see a price increase for products after the change.
“Since the three colleges used three different vendors, it’s difficult to determine whether vending pricing will increase, decrease or remain the same,” Cobos said.
The only machines being replaced are the snack machines; all beverage machines will be the same ones being used currently.
It’s unknown whether the brands for sale in the new machines will be primarily the same or all new variety, but students don’t seem too worried.
Garret Clark, a 19-year-old, undeclared major, Moorpark College student, enjoys some of the snacks but isn’t against change.
“It’s more of a convenience then a necessity,” said Clark. “I won’t be too upset if they change products.”
Student Sam Butera, also a 19 year old, undeclared major, Moorpark College student, admits she doesn’t normally use the machines, but can see how other students would feel should prices raise.
“It would definitely be a bummer if they raised the prices,” she said. “I don’t usually use them but it would be a bummer for students who do.”
Once all the new machines are installed; only time will tell if going with First Class Vending was a sweet deal.
