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Here's everything you need to know about the new 'PPE vending machine' in Vancouver

"And it's not just masks--hand sanitizers, alcohol wipes, face shields and alcohol pads."
Elana Shepert
Elana Shepert
ppe-pic-update
Local entrepreneur Edvin Muminovic owns the vending machine, and he tells Vancouver Is Awesome in a phone interview that he visualized a one-stop-shop where people can get personal protective equipment (PPE). Photo courtesy of Edvin Muminovic

If you are looking to buy a new face mask, you might visit a local retailer or try shopping online. 

But if you're in a hurry, a new vending machine at Waterfront SkyTrain Station provides a convenient way to grab a mask on the go. 

Local entrepreneur Edvin Muminovic owns the vending machine, and he tells Vancouver Is Awesome in a phone interview that he visualized a one-stop-shop where people can get personal protective equipment (PPE). 

"And it's not just masks--hand sanitizers, alcohol wipes, face shields and alcohol pads," he explains. "And instead of searching at different locations with different types of masks here they've got various colours, you know, kids masks, face shields, and different colours.

"I just feel like it's the most convenient way for people to purchase masks."

A disposable mask costs $2, and the reusable ones are $12.50. The machine is cashless, and customers may use phone, credit or debit. 

The machines even carry "Hello Kitty" masks. 

ppe-picPhoto courtesy of Edvin Muminovic

Muminovic purchased two machines from a company called Langley Wholesale Ltd., which sells and rents vending machines to companies in the Lower Mainland. He is leasing the space for his first vending machine at Waterfront Station from Cadillac Fairview, but he plans to install a second one in Pacific Centre this weekend. 

Moving forward, Muminovic hopes to expand his PPE machines to places across the Lower Mainland. However, much to his surprise, a couple of malls have turned down his offer.

Aside from shopping centres, he also wants to work with TransLink and BC Ferries, to set up machines at key transit hubs. 

Violating B.C. mask order can result in a $230 fine

The mask order applies to all British Columbians, 12 years and older, in many indoor public settings including:

  • malls, shopping centres, coffee shops, and retail and grocery stores
  • liquor and drug stores
  • airports, city halls, libraries, community and recreation centres
  • restaurants, pubs and bars
  • places of public worship
  • on public transportation, in a taxi or ride-sharing vehicle
  • common areas of office buildings, courthouses, hospitals and hotels
  • common areas of sport and fitness centres when not engaged in physical activity
  • common areas of post-secondary institutions and non-profit organizations

Masks can be removed temporarily when individuals are in a place designated for consuming food or beverages, receiving personal or health service, or required to identify themselves in an indoor public space. 

Read more here.