A method and apparatus for vending articles from a machine. The machine includes an interior space having at least one compartment adapted to store articles therein, the compartment extending along a non-vertical axis between first and second ends thereof. A head is provided as part of a retrieval end of a flexible hose so as to engage the articles when the head is positioned in alignment with a compartment by a positioning mechanism. The head is extended into the compartment parallel to the non-vertical axis so as to engage to an article stored therein and retrieve it therefrom.