Bhumika Chauhan
In today’s fast-paced urban lifestyle, convenience and health often clash. For Vivek Goswami, this contradiction sparked an idea that would reshape how Indians snack. His brainchild, Unicorn Vending, founded in 2023, has transformed the way people access food and beverages across workplaces, campuses, and public hubs.
The concept was simple yet powerful: healthy, hygienic snacks available 24/7 through automated vending machines. What makes Unicorn unique is its integration of technology and nutrition. “Consumers are becoming health-conscious, but availability remains a barrier,” Vivek explains. “We wanted to bridge that gap with reliable, tech-enabled access.”
Unicorn Vending’s growth story is remarkable. Starting with a modest ₹10 lakh investment, it has grown into a ₹3.5–4 crore enterprise in just two years, operating 120+ machines across India. The machines aren’t just dispensers—they’re smart systems that track inventory in real time, accept cashless payments, and are maintained with a service-first mindset.
The challenges were significant. Introducing automated retail to a traditionally manual market meant overcoming skepticism. “Many potential partners doubted whether such machines would work in India’s diverse settings,” Vivek recalls. But perseverance paid off. Corporates began to see the value in offering employees accessible, healthy food, and word of mouth fueled expansion.
Unicorn’s impact extends beyond convenience. It supports local suppliers, helps reduce junk food dependency, and creates jobs in operations and logistics. Such contributions have earned it national recognition, including the Retail Excellence Forum’s Top 10 Innovative Startups award.
The road ahead is ambitious. Vivek plans to expand across India, integrate AI-driven personalization, and even explore international collaborations. “Our goal is to become synonymous with smart, healthy snacking,” he says.
For Vivek, the journey is as important as the destination. “Entrepreneurship taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of relationships. Always put customers first, and growth will follow.”
Website : https://unicornvending.in/
