If you’re an ATM owner or running your own ATM business, choosing the right location(s) for your ATM machines is one of the most important and strategic decisions you will make. ATM fees can be an excellent source of passive income, but ATM machines rely on foot traffic to be profitable. If you want to ensure your customers know how to find an ATM in your business, placing your machines in the path of people who need cash is key to your success. Having an ATM can also bring you more new customers who find your location using an ATM locator. (ATMMachines.com covers the topic of ATM placement extensively in our online course on how to start your own ATM business.)
Best Locations for an ATM
ATMs can increase revenues significantly for retailers, financial institutions, the hospitality industry, gaming industries, and more. Let’s look at some of the types of businesses, industries, and locations where ATM placement works best.
Banks
Banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions are among the first places people look for an ATM. Many people who have a checking account or another type of bank account will visit their local bank at all hours to make a cash withdrawal. Learn more about bank ATM management.
Nightclubs and Bars
Nightclub and bar owners who have an ATM machine available typically see significant extra income — both from surcharge fees and the fact that customers spend more money in the bar when they have access to cash. Learn more about ATMs for bars and nightclubs.
Hotels
Hotel guests almost always need to know how to find ATM machines for various reasons. Providing an on-site ATM is a great way for hotel business owners to generate extra income from transaction fees and encourage guests to spend more money in the hotel itself. Learn more about ATMs for hotels.
Grocery Stores
Many customers prefer paying cash for groceries rather than using a credit card or debit card. Others like the convenience of grocery stores being a “one-stop-shop” for their needs while they are out. Providing an on-site ATM at a grocery store satisfies both needs and improves most store owners’ profit margins. Learn more about grocery store ATMs.
Gas Stations
Gas stations and convenience stores are among the most common places where people look for ATMs. Providing access to cash is a great way to encourage more sales in the store while helping travelers on the go. Learn more about ATMs for gas stations.
Festivals and Events
At large events and festivals, attendees are always in need of extra cash. By providing ATM access, you’ll encourage them to spend more money on vendors while keeping them on the premises longer. Learn more about festival/event ATMs.
Casinos
The longer you keep customers in the casino, the more money they spend. Giving them quick access to more cash is one of the best ways to do this. Learn about casino ATM placement.
Cannabis Dispensaries
The burgeoning legal cannabis industry relies heavily on cash transactions due to banking regulations. Providing an ATM on-site almost ensures increased sales and profits. Learn about ATMs for marijuana dispensaries.
Bingo Halls
ATM machines are highly profitable at bingo halls for the same reasons they work at casinos — they keep customers playing for longer. Learn about ATMs in bingo halls.
Go Beyond Cash ATMs
While considering the best locations for ATMs for your ATM business, you might also consider investing in other types of ATM machines besides just cash ATMs. Three important examples might include:
- Lottery ticket ATMs — these can be very profitable at convenience stores that sell lottery tickets, keeping lotto players from clogging up the counter lines.
- Bitcoin ATMs — these machines enable customers to buy and/or sell bitcoin using a credit card, debit card, or cash.
- Cardless ATMs — these ATMs allow customers to make a cash withdrawal without their ATM, credit, or debit card, simply by using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or their bank’s mobile app on their mobile device.
FAQ
What are the best ATMs to buy?
For best results, ATM operators should look for machines with a good blend of affordability, features, reliability, and security — including a robust warranty. ATMMachines.com sells a line of trusted ATMs from some of the industry’s top manufacturers, including Hyosung, Genmega, and Triton. View our ATM selection.
How much can I make from an ATM business?
Depending on how many machines they have and where they are placed, there is no real cap on how much you can make. Many ATM business owners can easily see annual revenues in the 6-figure range.
How do I start an ATM business?
We offer a comprehensive online course that teaches you all you need to know to start a successful ATM business. Sign up for our ATM business course today.
What is ATM placement?
ATM placement is an agreement between a business owner and a company that owns or provides ATMs. The ATM provider takes care of installation, maintenance, and vault cash for the machine, all at no cost to the business owner. The business owner collects a portion of the surcharge fees.
Do you offer ATM processing?
Yes, we offer ATM processing free of charge.
Do you offer vault cash management services?
Yes, we offer vault cash management for participants in our ATM placement program. If you buy your machine outright or participate in an ATM partnership program, you will handle vault cash.
Do you offer vault cash management services?
Yes, we offer vault cash management for participants in our ATM placement program. If you buy your machine outright or participate in an ATM partnership program, you will handle vault cash.
What if my ATM needs maintenance or repairs?
If you participate in our ATM placement or partnership programs, we provide maintenance and repairs at our expense. If you own the machine, we provide these services at an affordable rate.
How do I protect my ATM?
We recommend choosing an ATM with enhanced security features and tamper-proof technologies. Foot traffic shouldn’t be your only concern if you want to ensure your customers know how to find an ATM machine. You should also place machines in well-lit areas and in view of security cameras, if possible. Finally, ATM insurance is always a good investment in case of damage or theft.
To learn more about our ATM ownership or placement programs, contact ATMMachines.com today.
I've had extensive experience in the ATM industry, from operations to strategic placement and management. I've helped businesses optimize their revenue streams by deploying ATMs in high-traffic areas, leveraging footfall to ensure profitability. The article touches upon crucial aspects of ATM deployment, outlining the pivotal role of location selection in driving customer usage and generating passive income.
Let's break down the key concepts touched upon in the article:
-
ATM Placement: This refers to the strategic positioning of ATMs in locations with high foot traffic. Businesses can partner with ATM providers who manage installation, maintenance, and cash loading while sharing a portion of the surcharge fees with the business owner.
-
Optimal Locations for ATMs: The article identifies several lucrative locations for ATM placement, including banks, nightclubs, hotels, grocery stores, gas stations, festivals, casinos, cannabis dispensaries, and bingo halls. Each venue caters to specific needs, facilitating increased foot traffic and spending.
-
Diversification of ATM Types: Apart from traditional cash ATMs, there's a growing market for specialized ATMs like lottery ticket ATMs, Bitcoin ATMs, and cardless ATMs. These cater to evolving consumer preferences and offer additional revenue streams for businesses.
-
Revenue Potential: The income potential of an ATM business is substantial, with revenue streams coming from surcharge fees. Annual revenues for ATM businesses can easily reach six figures, depending on machine placement and numbers.
-
ATM Business Start-Up: Starting an ATM business requires comprehensive knowledge, which can be acquired through online courses covering aspects like machine selection, placement strategies, revenue generation, and operational management.
-
Services Offered by ATM Providers: These include ATM processing, vault cash management, maintenance, and repairs. The extent of services covered often depends on the nature of the partnership or ownership agreement.
-
ATM Security: Ensuring the security of ATMs is crucial. Businesses are advised to invest in machines with robust security features, position them in well-lit areas, install security cameras, and consider ATM insurance for protection against damage or theft.
The insights provided in the article underscore the importance of strategic decision-making in ATM placement, aligning with customer needs, and leveraging diverse revenue streams. These elements are integral to the success of an ATM business and can be further optimized through continuous adaptation to industry trends and technological advancements.
