Modular vending machines

A modular vending machine, comprising:

• a first modular vending unit comprising a first product compartment and a connection member;
• a second modular vending unit comprising a second product compartment separate from the first product compartment and a connection receptacle,
• wherein the connection member is configured to connect with the connection receptacle to removably secure the first modular vending unit with the second modular vending unit and to communicate at least one of data or power between the first modular vending unit and the second modular vending unit, and
• wherein the connection member is configured to support the first modular vending unit above a supporting surface when not connected with the connection receptacle;
• a first locking mechanism configured to automatically lock and unlock a first door of the first product compartment;
• a second locking mechanism configured to automatically lock and unlock a second door of the second product compartment;
• a user interface configured to receive user information corresponding to a user identity;
• and
• a product sensor system configured to determine the number of products disposed in the first and second product compartments,
• wherein during a vending operation, both the first and the second product compartments are accessible to a user through the first and second doors, respectively, wherein only one of the first and second doors may be opened at a time.

A modular vending system, comprising:

• a plurality of modular vending units, wherein each modular vending unit comprises:
• a housing defining a product storage compartment,
• a product removal sensor arranged within the housing,
• a control unit configured to determine an amount and identity of products removed from the product storage compartment based on information from the product removal sensor,
• a connection member, and
• a connection receptacle,
• wherein each of the plurality of modular vending units are movable with respect to one another such that the plurality of modular vending units can be arranged in a plurality of configurations,
• wherein the connection member is configured to connect with the connection receptacle of another modular vending unit to removably secure the plurality of modular vending units together and to communicate at least one of data or power among the plurality of modular vending units, and
• wherein the connection member is configured to support the modular vending unit above a supporting surface when not connected with the connection receptacle of another modular vending unit;
• and
• a remote administrator in wireless communication with each of the plurality of modular vending units via a network, such that the remote administrator is configured to process a transaction based on removal of products from one or more of the plurality of modular vending units.