A teenager from Darwen says he has big plans for the future after launching his vending machine business.

Alfie Rhodes, 14, is the brains behind Candy Kid Vending. Currently, he has 13 vending machines at businesses in the local area, which sell sweets and toys.

Alfie, who bought his first machine for £120 in September 2023, was inspired to launch Candy Kid Vending after seeing a YouTube creator start his own vending machine business.

He said: “I bought my first vending machine with my birthday money. I was watching YouTube videos when I saw a guy making videos. He bought a few vending machines and filled them up to sell items.

“I thought it was really interesting and thought I’d give it a try. I asked my dad if I could do this and he agreed.”

With machines in Blackburn Rovers’ strikers' lounge, Crown Pub in Darwen, The Old Function Room in Darwen, and beyond, Alfie has big plans to expand the business further. He aims to have 20 vending machines by the end of the year.

“I am quite business-minded and would like to be a businessman when I am older,” he said.

"I am learning a lot about business from this experience.

“In the next few years, I want to expand the vending machine business and turn it into a proper, full-time business.”

Alfie’s dad, Mick Rhodes, has helped his son launch the business and says he is proud of him.

He said: “He’s done this in a year by approaching local venues if he can put a site there. He is making great relationships with business owners.

“I am really proud of him. He has come up with this idea himself. It is something I wouldn’t have thought of. It’s a really good idea and everyone loves sweets, so it’s a great business concept!

“He aimed to get 20 machines by the end of the year. He’s put so much work into it and even has a website.”

Mick said the venture is teaching Alfie about the reality of business, including how to reinvest profits.

“The vending machines are doing well [financially],” he said. “Alfie is learning about business and how to use the money he gets from the machines.

“At the minute, the money being made is going back into the business to buy more vending machines and stock.

“Alfie is encouraging business owners to get in touch if they would like to host a machine in their venue. They are free to the business and owners will get a commission of sales generated.”

To find out more about Candy Kid Vending, or to get a machine at your business, email: candykidvending@myyahoo.com, or visit the website at: www.brand.page/Candy-Kid-Vending.