Vending Machines in Capital Decline 7% After Tax Hike
In the wake of a significant hike in trade tax, nearly 800 vending machines have been decommissioned in the capital, marking a 7% decrease in the second quarter of 2025. The Association of Automatic Retailers (AAR) attributes this reduction to the increased tax burden, which has made many vending locations unprofitable.
The new trade tax rate, introduced in January 2025, stands at 3,400 rubles per month, taking up to half of the average profit of 6-7,000 rubles. This sharp increase, due to inflation indexing, has led to the dismantling of approximately 800 out of the 11,000 registered vending machines. The AAR believes this is a direct consequence of the increased tax rates, which were first discussed and proposed in February 2025.
While high-traffic locations like airports, accounting for around 20% of the market, can maintain high profitability with monthly revenues of 80-90,000 rubles, many other vending machines are struggling. With average monthly revenues of 35,000 rubles, the new tax rates have made many vending locations unviable.
The increased trade tax has led to a significant reduction in the number of vending machines in the capital. While high-traffic areas remain profitable, many other locations are at risk of closure. The AAR attributes this decline to the increased tax burden, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to taxation that supports the viability of small businesses.
