Can putting your cash in an ATM/Kiosk save you money?

Convenience stores and other retailers are constantly seeking ways to optimize their operations and increase profitability. One often overlooked avenue for achieving these goals is the strategic management of in-store ATMs and financial kiosks. While these machines are primarily seen as customer convenience tools, they can also serve as powerful financial instruments for retailers when managed effectively.

There are several options for hosting ATMs and kiosks in-store. However, one of the most critical decisions when it comes to the level of financial benefit to the retailer is determining who will be responsible for loading the ATM or kiosk with cash. This seemingly simple task can have significant implications for a convenience store or retailer's bottom line.

What does it mean to "Handle the Cash"?

Managing the cash in an ATM or kiosk goes far beyond simply counting out a stack of $20 bills at the end of each day to insert into the machine. It involves a comprehensive approach to cash management that requires careful consideration of several factors:

1. Insurance Coverage: Ensuring your insurance policy adequately covers both the machine and the cash inside is crucial. The store's general insurance policy might cover an ATM owned by the store and located on the premises. But it's a good idea to verify that this coverage extends to the cash loaded into the machine. Inadequate coverage could expose retailers to significant financial risk in the event of theft or damage.
2. Cash Flow Management: One of the primary challenges of handling ATM cash is maintaining sufficient funds to keep the machine stocked. The amount of money withdrawn from an ATM or financial kiosk can often exceed the cash a store has on hand. This situation may necessitate additional trips to the bank to acquire more cash or, worse, lead to disappointed customers unable to access funds when needed.

The upside of self-funding ATMs and kiosks

Despite these challenges, there are compelling reasons for retailers to consider handling the cash for their in-store ATMs and kiosks:

1. Retention of Surcharge Fees: By filling the machine with store cash, retailers typically retain all surcharge fees generated by the ATM. With an average of 300 monthly transactions and a standard surcharge rate of $3.50, this can translate to a potential monthly profit of $1,050. Over a year, this additional revenue stream can significantly impact a store's profitability.
2. Streamlined Cash Management: Money withdrawn from a self-funded ATM bypasses the standard cash management process. Instead of being transported to the bank or picked up by an armored carrier, funds withdrawn from the machine are cycled through the financial system and directly deposited into the store's bank account. This streamlined process can save time and reduce the risks associated with physical cash transportation.
3. Cost Savings on Cash Handling: Loading store cash into an ATM or kiosk can lead to substantial savings on bank fees. Cash that doesn't need to be physically deposited at the bank avoids associated handling fees, yet still makes its way into the store's account once withdrawn from the ATM. Furthermore, if a store utilizes a smart safe or cash recycler, money loaded into the ATM or kiosk won't generate next-day deposit fees or other charges typically incurred as cash moves through the traditional banking system.

There is an easier way to get the rewards - with less hassle

While self-funding an ATM or kiosk can offer significant benefits, it also comes with its share of challenges and responsibilities – such as accurately tracking and balancing for the funds placed in the ATM or kiosk. For retailers looking to maximize the advantages of in-store financial services without the associated hassles, there's an innovative solution: BANK IN A BOX.

This comprehensive system combines in-store cash management with ATM/kiosk functionality, offering the best of both worlds. Here's how it works:

1. All-in-One Cash Management: Store employees can insert all cash deposits into a single machine that verifies, counts, and records all funds, similar to a smart safe but with enhanced functionality.
2. Efficient Cash Dispensing: The system allows for easy withdrawal of register start-of-shift and daily cash funds, with all transactions fully verified, tracked, and recorded for seamless accounting.
3. Dual-Purpose Functionality: Consumers can use the machine as an ATM/kiosk, with transactions fully funded by store cash. This dual functionality maximizes the utility of the machine for both the retailer and its customers.
4. Guaranteed Cash Availability: Should the machine run low on funds, the cash management/ATM partner takes responsibility for replenishing it, ensuring continuous service without burdening the retailer.
5. Profit Sharing: Retailers retain 80% of ATM surcharge fees PLUS gaining additional profits from fees on other financial transactions, building a significant new revenue stream and attracting new customers to the store.

By implementing a BANK IN A BOX solution, convenience stores and other retailers can enjoy the benefits of self-funded ATMs and kiosks without the associated risks and responsibilities. This innovative approach to retail cash management not only saves money but also generates additional income, improves cash flow, and enhances the customer experience.

Does filling your own ATM/Kiosk save you money?

The answer is…it depends on whether the machine makes enough money to offset the time and labor it takes to manage the cash or not. By carefully considering the approach to in-store ATMs and financial kiosks, it is possible for retailers to transform these machines from mere conveniences into powerful tools for financial optimization.

Whether opting for a traditional self-funded ATM/kiosk model or embracing innovative solutions like BANK IN A BOX, the key lies in understanding the full potential of these machines. By leveraging ATMs and kiosks strategically, convenience stores and other retailers can reduce cash handling costs, generate new revenue streams, and improve overall operational efficiency.

As the retail industry continues to evolve, those who recognize and capitalize on the hidden potential of their in-store financial services will be well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly competitive marketplace. The question is no longer whether putting your cash in an ATM/kiosk can save you money – it's how much you stand to gain by doing so.

Interested to know how much money BANK IN A BOX could save you? Check out our savings estimator here!

TLDR: Yes, managing your ATM/kiosk cash can save…and even make you more money. But how you handle that cash management needs to minimize the time and labor required – or expenses will quickly eat those potential profits.