The first distributors
«"Jidohanbaiki" (自動販売機, or "jihanki" for short) is the Japanese term for vending machines. It's worth noting that the invention is quite old. In fact, the oldest known vending machine (dispensing holy water!) was discovered in the Temple of Alexandria in Egypt (it is believed to date back to 215 BC). It wasn't until the 17th century that vending machines became commonplace.th It was in the 19th century that these machines began to develop under the impetus of the English. But it was in the United States that we found the first commercially viable (chewing gum) vending machines.
«Japanese "Jidohanbaiki"
In Japan, the first jidohanbaiki, designed for selling cigarettes, was patented in 1888 by the inventor Tawaraya Takashichi. However, it was after World War II that vending machines became popular with the population. Indeed, the country underwent profound transformations during the second half of the 20th century.th century. Massive industrialization, the hyper-development of transport (especially railways) and economic and demographic booms therefore constituted the ideal breeding ground for seeing jidohanbaiki 自動販売機 flourish throughout the country.
Their success can be explained (among other things) by the legendary pragmatism of the Japanese. These machines could dispense drinks, food, alcohol, tobacco, everyday items, etc., in record time, while preserving the workforce, already heavily engaged in the country's development. Little by little, jidohanbaiki (自動販売機) became a staple in Japanese consumer habits.
The Jidohanbaiki Today
While their numbers are certainly decreasing, there were still nearly 3 million machines in 2018, making Japan one of the world's largest consumers. Why are vending machines so popular in Japan?
- The logistics remain exceptionally (even unsurpassed) efficient!
- The machines have evolved over time: you can now pay by scanning your transport card, for example.
- Prices remain attractive: a bottle of water will cost you between 80 cents and 1 euro (versus 2.50 euros in the tricolor vending machines).
- The product range is very extensive… which is sure to attract the attention of foreigners! Be careful, however, not to choose at random, or you might be in for some surprises!
- Finally, acts of vandalism or theft are relatively rare.
