Improved Discrete Spider Monkey Optimization for Vending Machine Column Optimization Considering Sales and a Replenishment Cycle

There are approximately 2.24 million beverage vending machines (VM) in Japan. They have space to contain products called columns. The time until the entire product is sold out can be extended by containing high demand products in the columns with higher capacity. Namely, it can reduce the number of product deliveries to VMs. Fewer number of deliveries contribute to lower carbon dioxide emissions, lower fuel costs, and fewer hours of work by delivery personnel. For example, reducing carbon dioxide emissions is important to mitigate global warming.