Since purchasing six Naturals2Go vending machines seven years ago, Cathy Kidd has grown her business to over 50 machines in the Birmingham, Alabama, area. By Patty Horansky
Since purchasing six Naturals2Go vending machines seven years ago, Cathy Kidd has grown her business to over 50 machines in the Birmingham, Alabama, area.
As a single mom, homemaker and Air Force veteran, Kidd was looking for a business opportunity that would allow her to take care of herself. She had earned a degree in accounting but sought an alternative source of income after injuring her right hand.
“I wanted to be completely independent; I wanted flexibility,” Kidd explained.
She was drawn to Naturals2Go, a turnkey model that offers owners their own healthy vending machine business. Because Naturals2Go is not a franchise, there are no royalties, employees or franchise fees. Owners work full time or part time and can customize their machines to each location. They also keep 100% of the profits.
Kidd was attracted to the brand’s robust training, team support, initial help with site selection, attractive wraps and the ability to monitor the high-tech machines remotely.
“It was something I could do by myself,” she said.
As an independent owner/operator, Kidd chose the moniker HealthyChoice2go and markets her business as the new, upscale generation of vending. Her machines accept credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Wallet and cash. Kidd strives to replace older machines and products in schools, car washes, urgent care centers and other popular spots.
“Our locations are very happy that we can provide custom vending with unique items. Whatever that location wants, we can do,” said Kidd.
Her machines are stocked with traditional and healthy offerings, and some units are refrigerated.
“We listen to the location,” Kidd said, noting that she has a good sense when choosing a location because of the number of employees, students or consumers a business serves.
Kidd handles most of the administrative duties and choice of locations. Her son, Grant, is the operations manager. He and two employees keep the machines clean and well-stocked.
Naturals2Go has afforded Kidd the work-life balance she wanted.
“That’s easily our favorite part for Grant and I both,” said Kidd. “Some days we work hard, and some days we take time for ourselves. We have a lot of flexibility.”
Patty Horansky