MTA to Repurpose Vacant Subway Retail Spaces with Vending Kiosks

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has launched a new initiative to install automated vending kiosks in vacant retail spaces across 26 subway stations. The project, which is currently underway, seeks to provide commuters with easier access to refreshments as the number of traditional newsstands in the system has declined significantly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

During a board meeting on Wednesday, MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber noted that the agency is exploring various methods to activate dormant spaces within the transit network. While the agency has previously utilized some areas for art installations or new retail stalls, Lieber described the vending machine rollout as a low-cost, effective solution for filling gaps left by shuttered businesses.

"The economics of the old school newsstands eroded during COVID, and most of them didn’t want to come back," Lieber stated. "So we found a lot of different ways of animating and activating those spaces."

To manage the rollout, the MTA selected CC Vending, Inc. through a competitive request for proposals process. The resulting contract spans five years, with an option for the agency to extend the agreement for an additional five-year term. According to the MTA, the initial inventory—which includes standard fare such as bottled water, soda, candy, and chips—is being supplied by The Coca-Cola Company. The agreement also allows for the potential expansion of inventory to include health, beauty, and technology products in the future.

Three stations have already received the new units: the 2nd Avenue station on the F line, the 23rd Street station on the R and W lines, and the 116th Street station on the 6 line. The remaining 23 locations are scheduled to receive their units throughout next year. Among the upcoming sites are major transit hubs such as Atlantic Avenue-Barclays Center, Broadway-Lafayette Street, and Flushing-Main Street.

MTA Chief Customer Officer Shanifah Rieara emphasized that the program is intended to improve the overall rider experience. By converting vacant areas into functional amenities, the agency hopes to make stations feel more welcoming and convenient for daily commuters.