Micro markets are booming—and it’s no accident. From tap-to-pay tech to new high-traffic locations, discover what’s fueling their growth and why now’s the time to get in. A quick preview of insights from Cantaloupe’s Micropayment Trends Report.
Micro markets are popping up in more places than ever. It makes sense — they’re easy to use, open all the time, and let people grab snacks, drinks, and even fresh meals without needing a cashier. Another big reason they’re doing so well? Nearly all payments — 96% — are now cashless. More people are using mobile wallets, contactless cards, and apps to pay, and micro markets are built to make that quick and easy.
Most people aren’t using cash anymore, especially at self-service locations. Last year, 77% of sales at food & beverage vending machines were contactless. On top of that, shoppers are tapping their cards or phones instead of swiping or inserting them — tap to pay with mobile phones and smart watches grew over 300% to total 29% of cashless sales. This became more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic , when people wanted safer ways to shop. But even now, the speed and ease of tapping to pay means people are sticking with it.
Micro markets are opening up everywhere. There was a 28% jump in the number of locations in just one year. Why? They offer lots of product options, are always open, and don’t need staff to run. While they started in office buildings, they’re now showing up in gyms, hospitals, and even apartment complexes. These new spots let operators sell more than just snacks — think fresh food, toiletries, and even electronics.
For business owners and operators, micro markets offer a lot of upsides.
People spent over $1 billion at micro markets in 2024. Plus, when everything is cashless, there’s no need to handle money or worry as much about theft. That saves time and money, making micro markets a smart choice for businesses that want to grow.
The Cantaloupe Micropayment Trends Report 2025 shows just how much micro markets sales are growing. In 2024, the average micro market ticket size was $2.67, which is 4.8% higher than the year before. Overall spending at markets went up 27% from 2023 to 2024. A big part of that growth came from markets opening in new places and offering more high-value products.
The report points to even more chances to grow. Micro markets are perfect for places like apartment buildings, fitness centers, and other non-traditional spaces. Cashless is clearly the way forward, and people also tend to spend more when using tap-to-pay methods, which can boost sales even further.
Micro markets are changing the way we shop. With cashless payments, great products, and smart tech, they make shopping fast, safe, and easy. For businesses, now’s the time to get ready and meet customers where they are. The future of shopping is here — are you ready?
To secure a micro market, choose safe locations, install security cameras, use live monitors, manage remotely, put up signs, adjust prices, and use kiosks with cameras. These steps help prevent theft and protect your business.
Micro markets are expanding rapidly, with a 36% increase in locations in 2023. Nearly all payments are cashless, accounting for 96% of transactions. Consumers spend more at micro markets compared to vending machines, and sales are projected to grow by 20% in 2024.
Choosing the right micro market kiosk can boost ROI and customer satisfaction. Learn how to match kiosk models to real-world environments—from gyms and offices to car dealerships and residential spaces.
