I have wrote numerous posts detailing the innovative means that Japanase retailers, among others, have utilized vending machines to sell products... Vending machines are such a huge component of retail sales overseas, that it was only a matter of time before they were accepted and implemented in the United States.

Well, the time has come...  Macy's recently announced that it will use vending machines to sell iPods, digital cameras, and other electronic items at 400 retail locations across the nation. The company revealed that it was rolling out the mass introduction after pilot programs proved to be successful. Yes, you have probably seen similar vending machines in airports and other transportation ports, but this will mark the first time that a nationwide retailer will invest the appropriate resources to have vending machines prominently displayed in their stores...

It is only a matter of time before these unique vending machines are a part of the stadium experience; they serve as great ways to reduce labor costs, sell unique/customized items, and add to the fan experience with only minimal space requirements.

For an in-depth look at how the Japanese have creatively utilized vending machines, check out the impressive gallery compiled on Dark Roasted Blend.

On a side note, check out Coca Cola's new strategy utilizing mobile vending machine robots in Japan below: