Our Story
A Merging of 2 Companies
Craneum Vending
Our history dates back to Craneum Vending, a claw machine route operator in Connecticut that started in 2009. During this period, we operated various claw machines and candy machines, gaining valuable experience. Managing multiple types of machines presented challenges, such as needing different parts and repair methods. Parts were costly and hard to find, and despite being profitable, we struggled to secure loans, which prevented us from investing in higher-quality machines with a common parts catalog.
Ultra Amusements
Today, Ultra Amusements is dedicated to designing and providing the highest quality claw machines, ensuring that each machine meets rigorous standards for durability and performance. We offer a diverse range of machines tailored to fit various business needs, and we stock all necessary parts to keep your machines in top condition. In addition to our exceptional machines, we provide a curated selection of prizes that are sure to excite players and enhance their experience. Our mission is to support your business growth by offering top-notch products, financing options, and expert support. We aim to minimize stress and out-of-pocket expenses, so you can focus on expanding your business with confidence. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive troubleshooting and assistance, ensuring that your operations run smoothly. By combining superior machine design with our expertise in popular prizes and ready availability of parts, we strive to empower you to build a successful claw machine empire efficiently and effectively, making your business venture both rewarding and seamless.
Soko Toys
In 2020, we opened Soko Toys, focusing on sourcing and testing the best toys and prizes. This phase allowed us to identify items that were most appealing and cost-effective for customers. We learned what products were in high demand and what would excite customers the most. Our work with Soko Toys provided essential insights into customer preferences, helping us select the most attractive prizes for claw machines and enhancing their appeal.
“As far back as I can remember, I’ve always been drawn to claw machines. Their gentle hum and the nostalgic clink of coins evoke memories of simpler times, yet for me, they’ve always been more than just a fun distraction. They’ve become a canvas where my passion for mechatronics could truly shine. I even built a full-sized claw machine from scratch in my parents’ basement when I was just starting out—an early experiment that blended engineering challenges with the sheer joy of creating something that brings smiles to faces.
Working with these machines has allowed me to do what I love, merging technical artistry with the excitement of the game, and it’s given me the opportunity to help others discover and pursue their passions for claw machines as well. Sometimes I ask myself if I’ve made the world a better place, and knowing that I’ve added an activity that’s brought smiles to countless thousands of faces fills me with a profound sense of fulfillment. It’s a rewarding journey where every opportunity not only fuels my creative spirit but also supports a lifestyle centered on sharing joy and ingenuity with the world.”
Founder, Ultra Amusements