Gr 10 Co-Winner in the 2024 National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge
Hudson Vandermeer, a Grade 10 student at Upper Canada College, has introduced an innovative business idea that combines convenience with sustainability. His venture, Polar Vending, focuses on providing ice through vending machines, offering a practical solution to meet the growing demand for ice in various settings.
The Concept Polar Vending machines are designed to dispense ice in a convenient and eco-friendly manner. These machines can be placed at high-traffic locations such as beaches, marinas, and parks, where there is a consistent demand for ice. Customers can purchase ice using digital payments, eliminating the need for cash handling and reducing labor costs.
Environmental Impact Hudson’s machines are air-cooled rather than water-cooled, making them more environmentally friendly. Additionally, the vending machines can provide reusable containers or plastic bags at an extra cost, encouraging customers to opt for sustainable choices.
Marketing and Target Audience Hudson plans to market Polar Vending to a broad audience, including beachgoers, campers, and event organizers. His marketing strategy includes using social media, creating an app or website to locate vending machines, and placing informative signage at strategic locations. By targeting both individual consumers and larger entities such as parks and recreation facilities, Hudson aims to maximize the reach and impact of his business.
Financial Projections Hudson has meticulously calculated the financial aspects of his business. The initial investment for high-end vending machines ranges between $5,000 and $7,000. Monthly operational costs, including energy, water, and maintenance, are estimated to be around $200. With a projected monthly revenue of $2,880 during peak summer months, Hudson anticipates making a profit of approximately $9,000 in the first year, after accounting for all expenses and the cost of the machine.
Future Expansion Hudson’s vision extends beyond the initial setup. He plans to expand Polar Vending by adding more machines in high-demand areas and potentially franchising the business model. This approach would allow others to operate Polar Vending machines, contributing to the brand’s growth while maintaining profitability through royalties.
Judge Feedback Avi Zur commented on Hudson's presentation, "I love the simplicity and practicality of your idea. It's a smart concept." Nika Sanguellini, owner of The Injectionist and Aesthetics, praised Hudson's approach, "This is a really good idea. Think bigger and consider high-traffic areas to expand your reach." Jennifer Donovan added, "You've taken a simple concept and made it important. Your presentation was compelling and well-thought-out."
Conclusion Hudson Vandermeer’s Polar Vending is a testament to how a simple idea, when executed with strategic planning and a focus on sustainability, can create significant business opportunities. His innovative approach to ice vending not only meets consumer needs but also promotes environmental consciousness. With a clear plan and ambitious vision, Hudson is poised to make a substantial impact in the vending industry.