An automatic vending machine with a stabilizing support for stocked items of merchandise includes a cabinet, a driving member secured in the cabinet, a helical element, and a pressing member secured to the cabinet. The cabinet includes a bottom plate. The helical element is secured to the driving member and moveable by the driving member. The pressing member is located within the coils of the helical element and runs the length of the helical element to support items of merchandise and reliably deliver an item of merchandise when bought.