Abstract: A method of moving an elevator to a product location in a vending machine to receive product from the product location, including the steps of: providing an indicator associated with each product location; providing a sensor associated with the elevator; moving the sensor first to a position near an expected position of one of the indicators; and searching for an actual position of the indicator. An apparatus for performing the method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A loyalty automatic merchandiser system comprises a vending machine capable of vending product, the vending machine having an input device for receiving identification information of a customer purchasing product from the vending machine, and a transaction controller for storing and transmitting information concerning identification information and product purchased, and a loyalty tracking system for registering a customer and assigning identification information for a customer, for receiving identification information and product purchased from the transaction controller, and for awarding points based on product purchased.