An embodiment of the invention includes outputting, from a vending machine, an inactive voucher which includes a voucher identifier. A request to activate the voucher and a payment are received. An amount of payment is determined based on the voucher identifier, and at least the amount of payment is received. The voucher is activated, and then a request to redeem the voucher is received. A gift that corresponds to the voucher is determined, and the gift is provided via the vending machine.