In an increasingly cashless world, cash machines may seem like a relic of the past, but the reality is very different. Leasing an ATM or owning one remains a valuable source of revenue and customer convenience for many businesses—especially in retail, hospitality, and high-footfall locations.
If you’re a business owner considering an ATM, the big question becomes: Should you choose ATM ownership or opt for leasing an ATM? Each option has its own advantages, but the right choice depends on your goals, budget, and long-term business strategy.
In this article, we’ll break down the 10 key benefits of each approach so you can make an informed decision.
1. Profit Potential with ATM Ownership
One of the biggest draws of ATM ownership is that you keep a much larger share of the transaction fees. When customers use your machine, you collect the surcharge fee (minus processing costs).
This can add up quickly, especially in high-traffic locations such as convenience stores, bars, or gas stations. Over time, the revenue from owning your machine can outweigh the initial investment.
2. Lower Upfront Costs with Leasing an ATM
If your business is just starting out or cash flow is tight, leasing an ATM can be a more affordable entry point. Leasing reduces the need for a large upfront purchase, allowing you to start generating revenue without a major capital outlay. Leasing agreements typically include equipment installation and sometimes even ATM maintenance, making it a low-risk way to add a machine to your business.
3. Greater Control with ATM Ownership
Owning your machine means you have full control over settings, surcharge fees, and branding. You can set transaction fees at a rate that makes sense for your location and customer base, ensuring maximum profitability.
You also have the freedom to choose your preferred service provider for cash loading, processing, and maintenance—giving you more flexibility than leasing.
4. Hassle-Free Maintenance with Leasing
One of the advantages of leasing an ATM is that most agreements include service and ATM maintenance. This means if the machine malfunctions or needs updates, the leasing company takes care of it at no extra cost.
For busy business owners, this hands-off approach can save time, reduce headaches, and ensure that your machine stays operational without added effort on your part.
5. Long-Term Revenue Growth with ATM Ownership
While leasing may offer convenience, ATM ownership often provides better long-term returns. Once the machine is paid off, your operational costs drop significantly, and you keep more of each transaction fee.
If your location has steady traffic, ownership can pay for itself in a matter of months, turning the machine into a pure profit generator.
6. Technology Upgrades with Leasing
ATM technology is evolving, with features like contactless payments, high-resolution touchscreens, and enhanced security becoming more common. When leasing, you often get the option to upgrade your machine at the end of your term, ensuring you always have the latest technology without a large investment.
This can be an advantage if your business values staying ahead in digital payment trends.
7. Brand Customization with ATM Ownership
With ATM ownership, you can fully customize your machine’s exterior and screen messages to reflect your brand. This can improve your business’s visibility and make your machine more recognizable to customers.
A branded ATM not only earns you money but also reinforces your business identity every time a customer uses it.
8. Flexible Contracts with Leasing
Many leasing agreements are designed to be flexible, with options to upgrade, swap, or cancel at the end of the term. This can be ideal for businesses in temporary locations, seasonal operations, or those unsure of long-term demand for a machine.
9. Complete Revenue Retention with ATM Ownership
One of the strongest reasons to choose ATM ownership is revenue retention. Aside from small processing fees, all surcharge income goes directly to you. With high transaction volumes, this can represent a significant income stream. For businesses with predictable customer traffic, owning a machine can be one of the most profitable in-store services available.
10. Turnkey Setup with Leasing
When you lease, the provider often handles everything—from installation to compliance with banking regulations. You don’t need to worry about sourcing the machine, finding a service provider, or navigating complex setup procedures. This turnkey approach allows you to focus on your core business while still benefiting from the convenience and revenue of cash machines.
ATM Ownership vs. Leasing: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between ownership and leasing comes down to your business’s financial situation, operational capacity, and long-term goals.
You may prefer ATM ownership if:
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You want maximum revenue potential.
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You have the upfront capital to invest.
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You’re in a high-traffic location with predictable demand.
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You want complete control over branding and fees.
You may prefer leasing an ATM if:
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You want to minimize upfront costs.
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You prefer to include ATM maintenance and support.
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You want the option to upgrade easily.
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You’re unsure about long-term demand or location stability.
The Role of ATM Maintenance in Both Models
Regardless of whether you buy or lease, ATM maintenance is critical for maximizing uptime and keeping customers happy. A broken or unreliable machine can damage your business’s reputation and cost you revenue.
Owners typically need to arrange their own maintenance contracts, while leasing companies usually include servicing in the agreement. Either way, regular inspections, software updates, and security checks are essential.
How Cash Machines Benefit Your Business Beyond Revenue
While the direct income from ATM fees is appealing, cash machines offer other business advantages:
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Increased Foot Traffic: Customers stopping for cash are more likely to make additional purchases.
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Customer Convenience: ATMs provide a valued service, especially in areas with few banking options.
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Competitive Advantage: Businesses offering ATMs can stand out from competitors without them.
Even if ATM profits are modest, the boost to overall sales and customer loyalty can make them worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
Both ATM ownership and leasing an ATM have their merits, and the right choice will depend on your business model, budget, and operational needs. Ownership offers higher profits and control, while leasing provides lower upfront costs and less responsibility for servicing.
Whichever path you choose, ensure you work with a reputable provider who can support you with reliable machines, compliance, and ongoing assistance. With the right setup, your ATM can become a consistent and profitable asset for your business.
FAQ’s
Q1. Should I buy or lease an ATM?
A: If you want long-term profits and control, buying is ideal. If you prefer low upfront costs and included maintenance, leasing might be the better choice.
Q2. What’s more profitable: owning or leasing?
A: Owning is generally more profitable in the long run because you keep all surcharge income after covering operational costs, while leasing often involves sharing revenue with the provider.
