Independent ATMs grow

8 Oct 2009

In developed countries, such as Australia, Canada, US and UK, independent ATMs now deliver over 60% of cash dispending services in each country. In South Africa, the demand has grown rapidly through tangible benefits for both the consumer and vendor and independent ATMs now represent over 15% of the market.

This rapid growth is fuelled by a growing demand for convenient cash dispensing points from the consumer as well as store vendors as both become aware of the numerous benefits.

According to entrepreneur Marc Sternberg, Spark ATM Systems, founded in 2005, is leading the way and it is his aim to enable consumers from Pretoria to Khayelitsha and further afield into the neighbouring African countries to have immediate access to their cash through the rollout and installation of independent ATMs.

Global reality

The global reality is that ATMs are being forced to become more and more readily available, as consumers are accustomed to finding secure ATM points in the majority of retail and hospitality outlets. This ranges from small independent pubs and convenience stores to larger nationally franchised retailers. In the context of South Africa, they are of particular benefit in smaller towns and rural locations where banking facilities are sometimes extremely limited.

With a massive influx of visitors expected in South Africa during 2010, an accessible and secure place to withdraw cash will undoubtedly be a high priority and both customers and merchants may increasingly appreciate independent ATMs.

Sternberg concludes: “Convenience ATMs are becoming the norm for merchants large and small across the retail, leisure and hospitality industries. Everything points to the fact that the local independent ATM industry will follow the international trend and we are positioned for a very exciting growth spurt.”