Should I use the ID 137 or the full path for the category?

Both are accepted by Google, but using the numeric ID 137 is preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors.

Is it mandatory to specify a google_product_category for vending machines?

No, this attribute is optional. However, if you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize the item automatically, which may result in a less accurate classification.

How does this category differ from the product_type attribute?

The google_product_category is a fixed taxonomy for Google's internal use, whereas product_type is a free-form attribute you can use to organize your own catalog.

Google product category

Vending Machines

Category ID137

Full path for the feedBusiness & Industrial > Food Service > Vending Machines

Product examples in this category (US market)

Real products found in Google Shopping, shown as examples.

AMS Slim Gem Snack Machine
Seaga Compact Combination Vending Machine
AMS Beverage Machine
FoodSpot Smart Pantry Vending Microstore
Automatic Products Snack Machine
AMS Vandal-Resistant Snack Vending Machine
AMS Refrigerated Snack and Beverage Vending Machine
Electronic Bulk Vendor
Electronic Gumball Machine
Selectivend Evolution Snack Refrigerated Outdoor Vending Machine
Laundromat Laundry Supply Vending Machine
Selectivend Advantage Plus Combo Vending Machine
Coffee Tea & Hot Drink Vending Machine

Vending Machines Category Overview

The Vending Machines category, identified by ID 137, falls under the path Business & Industrial > Food Service > Vending Machines. This specific classification is essential for merchants selling automated retail equipment designed to dispense items to consumers.

What Belongs in This Category

This category is intended for professional-grade automated dispensing units used in commercial settings. Examples from the US market include:

Snack and beverage machines, including refrigerated combination units.
Smart pantry microstores for automated food service.
Bulk vendors and gumball machines for retail environments.
Specialized units like laundry supply or hot beverage dispensers.
Vandal-resistant or outdoor-rated automated dispensing hardware.

What Does Not Belong Here

Items categorized as disposable serveware, take-out containers, or beverage-related accessories like bus tubs and ice bins belong in their respective food service categories. Furthermore, equipment like hot dog rollers, tilt skillets, or food washers and dryers should be mapped to their dedicated categories under the Food Service branch. If your item is a stationary storage unit like a bakery box or a protective device like a sneeze guard, it should not be listed under vending machines.

Feed Implementation

In your feed, use the numeric ID 137 or the full path: Business & Industrial > Food Service > Vending Machines. Providing this value is optional but recommended over relying on automated assignments to ensure your product data remains accurate and categorized precisely according to Google specifications.

Frequently asked questions

Should I use the ID 137 or the full path for the category?: Both are accepted by Google, but using the numeric ID 137 is preferred as it is language-independent and less prone to formatting errors.
Is it mandatory to specify a google_product_category for vending machines?: No, this attribute is optional. However, if you omit it, Google will attempt to categorize the item automatically, which may result in a less accurate classification.
How does this category differ from the product_type attribute?: The google_product_category is a fixed taxonomy for Google's internal use, whereas product_type is a free-form attribute you can use to organize your own catalog.

This category in other languages

ru: Бизнес и промышленность > Общественное питание > Торговые автоматы
uk: Бізнес та промисловість > Громадське харчування > Торговельні автомати