Why ATMs Are Still Relevant for Retail Stores
BFC Enterprises • June 27, 2025
You’d think that in 2025, ATMs and cash might finally be headed toward obsolescence. With digital payments, contactless transactions, and mobile wallets dominating headlines, it's easy to assume physical currency is becoming a relic of the past. But convenience stores/gas station and retail business owners, who experience consumer payments firsthand, know this narrative is far from the truth.
Cash Use Remains Remarkably Steady
Despite predictions of cash's demise, consumer payment habits tell a different story. According to the
2025 Federal Reserve Diary of Consumer Payment Choice, Americans make an average of seven cash payments per month. This figure has remained remarkably consistent since 2020, proving cash usage isn't disappearing.
Even more telling is cash's ranking among payment methods. Cash has steadily maintained its position as the third most popular payment method in the US, trailing only debit and credit cards. This consistent usage pattern demonstrates the power of cash and that consumers rely on it for a significant portion of their transactions.
Perhaps most importantly for retailers is that U.S. consumers consistently use cash. Eighty three percent of adults, 18 and older use cash at least once a month, according to research from the
Atlanta Federal Reserve. This means virtually every customer who walks through your doors is likely to need cash access at some point, making retail ATMs a critical component of customer service.
Economic Pressures Drive Cash Usage
As inflation continues to impact household budgets, studies show consumers are actively seeking ways to control their spending. And for many cash is the solution they turn to. Research from
PYMNTS shows budget-minded consumers increasingly turn to cash and debit cards when money is tight. This trend directly benefits retailer who provide easy cash access.
The rise of
"cash stuffing" – a budgeting method where consumers allocate specific amounts of cash for different spending categories – has gained significant traction, particularly among younger consumers. This envelope-system approach to budgeting, popularized on social media platforms like TikTok, requires regular access to cash. Customers practicing cash stuffing need convenient ATM access to withdraw their allocated spending money.
For retailers, this represents a clear opportunity. Customers who budget with cash are more likely to make planned purchases and stick to predetermined spending limits, often resulting in more predictable transaction volumes.
Bank Branch Closures Create Access Gaps
The banking landscape continues to evolve, and not always in favor of cash access.
S&P Global Market Intelligence reports that the pace of U.S. bank branch closures remains high in 2025, with financial institutions continuing to consolidate their physical presence. These closures directly translate into reduced financial access for consumers in affected communities.
When local bank branches close, consumers lose convenient access to ATMs and cash services. This creates a significant opportunity for convenience store and retail store operators to fill this access gap. A local store's ATM doesn't just provide a service – it becomes an essential financial resource for the community.
The reduction in traditional banking access points makes retail ATMs more valuable than ever. People who previously relied on bank branches to get cash, now depend on retail locations to provide these services. This shift in consumer behavior can drive additional foot traffic to stores that offer reliable ATM access.
Strategic Advantages of Retail ATMs
Retail ATMs serve multiple business purposes beyond simple customer convenience. They generate direct revenue through transaction fees while simultaneously increasing foot traffic to store owners. Customers who visit specifically for ATM access often make additional purchases, boosting overall transaction values.
The key to maximizing these benefits lies in partnering with the right ATM provider. Reliable machines with minimal downtime ensure consistent service for retail customers. Quality ATM partners provide regular maintenance, quick repair times, and robust security features that protect both the business and customers.
Modern retail ATMs also offer enhanced features that improve customer experience. Updated machines with intuitive interfaces, multiple language options, various denomination dispensing capabilities and tap and pay (NFC) capabilities make cash access more convenient for diverse customer bases.
Conclusion
In 2025, the question isn't whether ATMs are still relevant – it's whether your retail store can afford to operate without one.
Despite technological advances in payment processing, cash remains a vital component of consumer spending habits. For convenience stores/gas station or any retail business owner, providing reliable ATM access isn’t just about meeting current customer needs – it’s about positioning your business for continued success in an evolving retail landscape.
Partner with a reliable ATM provider to ensure your store remains an essential resource for retail customers while generating additional revenue streams.
Contact BFC Enterprises to get started today!
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