In today’s fast-moving economy, cash is still a preferred payment method for many Canadians. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, a significant number of consumers rely on cash for everyday purchases. For business owners, this opens a great opportunity: strategic ATM placement not only enhances customer convenience but also generates additional income through transaction fees. Whether you’re a convenience store owner or restaurant operator, understanding the best locations to place an ATM can make a significant difference in profitability.
This guide explores the best ATM placement spots in Canada, highlighting businesses and venues that benefit most from ATMs. It also provides tips on identifying high-traffic ATM locations, explains how ATMs add value to businesses, and discusses why this opportunity remains profitable in 2025 and beyond.
Why ATM Placement is a Smart Investment
For Canadian business owners, ATMs provide multiple benefits:
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Increased Foot Traffic: Customers seeking cash are likely to enter your store, increasing the potential for additional purchases.
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Passive Revenue: Each withdrawal generates a surcharge, creating a consistent income stream.
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Customer Convenience: Businesses with ATMs stand out because they offer convenience, especially in areas with fewer bank branches.
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Reduced Card Processing Fees: Encouraging cash payments helps businesses save on card transaction costs.
However, success isn’t guaranteed simply by owning an ATM. Profitable machines are always found in carefully chosen ATM locations with high visibility and steady customer flow.
Characteristics of a Profitable ATM Location
To ensure profitability, look for sites with:
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High Daily Foot Traffic: The busier the location, the more transactions your ATM will process.
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Limited Bank Access: Neighborhoods without nearby bank branches are ideal for independent ATMs.
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Customer Demand for Cash: Venues like bars, restaurants, and entertainment centers thrive on cash transactions.
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24/7 Access & Safety: ATMs in well-lit, secure, and accessible areas are more attractive to users.
Top Business Locations for ATM Placements in Canada
Let’s explore the best opportunities for Canadian businesses ATM placements that drive revenue and customer satisfaction.
1. Convenience Stores and Gas Stations
Convenience stores and gas stations are some of the most profitable ATM locations in Canada. These businesses are open for extended hours, often 24/7, and attract customers who need quick access to cash. Shoppers are also more likely to make impulse purchases after withdrawing money.
An ATM near the entrance or checkout counter ensures visibility, making it an essential service that complements the business.
2. Shopping Malls and Retail Plazas
Shopping malls see thousands of visitors daily, many of whom prefer cash for smaller purchases. Placing ATMs near entrances, escalators, and food courts ensures maximum exposure. Retail plazas also present opportunities for ATMs near specialty shops, boutique stores, and parking lots, where convenience plays a significant role.
For mall operators, a strategically placed high-traffic ATM can create a steady income stream while improving customer satisfaction.
3. Bars, Clubs, and Restaurants
Nightlife venues and restaurants are perfect ATM locations because customers often run out of cash and prefer quick access rather than leaving the venue. Businesses benefit by encouraging continued spending while avoiding high card transaction fees.
For restaurants, placing an ATM near the cashier or entrance is ideal, as many patrons withdraw cash to pay bills or leave tips.
4. Hotels and Tourist Hotspots
Tourists frequently require cash for taxis, dining, souvenirs, and other activities, making hotels and tourist attractions excellent Canadian businesses ATM placement opportunities. Since travelers often do not have access to their home bank branches, they are more willing to use surcharge ATMs.
Prime tourist destinations like Banff, Niagara Falls, and Vancouver’s waterfront benefit greatly from multiple machines strategically placed in high-traffic areas.
5. Universities and Colleges
Campuses have a built-in population of students, faculty, and staff who need easy cash access for food, vending machines, and transportation. Universities are ideal for best ATM placement spots because they have thousands of daily visitors and limited banking facilities.
ATMs near cafeterias, libraries, and student centers are guaranteed to get regular use.
6. Event Venues and Arenas
Sports arenas, concert halls, and convention centers are among the highest-earning ATM locations because of the massive crowds they attract. Attendees often need cash for concessions, parking, and merchandise, making ATMs essential. For seasonal events, mobile ATMs can also be deployed to festivals, fairs, and outdoor events, further boosting transaction volume.
7. Laundromats and Coin-Operated Businesses
While many businesses now use card payments, laundromats and other coin-operated services still thrive on cash. Customers frequently withdraw small amounts for laundry, vending machines, or arcade games.
A conveniently located high-traffic ATM in these venues ensures customers have the cash they need, increasing overall satisfaction and repeat visits.
8. Residential Apartment Buildings
Apartment complexes, especially those with hundreds of tenants, are great opportunities for ATMs. These machines serve both residents and nearby pedestrians, generating steady income while providing a valuable service.
Landlords and property managers can benefit by earning revenue from surcharge fees while offering an attractive amenity to tenants.
9. Rural and Remote Communities
Remote towns often lack easy access to banking facilities, creating demand for independent ATMs. These areas present a unique opportunity because customers are willing to pay surcharges for convenience.
Placing ATMs in general stores, community centers, or gas stations in rural areas can generate consistent usage and strengthen community relationships.
10. Gyms and Health Clubs
Fitness centers and gyms may not be the first places you think of for ATMs, but they can be highly effective locations. Members often purchase drinks, snacks, or merchandise, and having a machine nearby eliminates payment friction.
With regular foot traffic from loyal members, these ATMs are both profitable and appreciated by customers.
Tips for Successful ATM Placement
Choosing the right location is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are tips to ensure your ATM performs well:
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Prioritize Visibility: Place ATMs in highly visible spots, ideally near entrances or checkout counters.
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Focus on Safety: Well-lit and secure areas encourage more transactions.
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Maintain Reliability: Regular maintenance and cash refills keep customers happy and coming back.
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Leverage Marketing: Use signs, decals, and lighting to attract attention.
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Partner with Businesses: Offering commission to store owners incentivizes them to host your ATM.
Why ATM Placements Remain Profitable in 2025
Despite the rise of mobile wallets and contactless payments, cash usage in Canada remains steady for small purchases. According to industry studies, ATMs are still in demand because they serve unbanked individuals, travelers, and customers who prefer cash.
With businesses embracing convenience-based services, adding an ATM is a low-maintenance, revenue-generating decision that benefits both owners and customers.
Independent operators also enjoy flexibility; by partnering with Canadian businesses ATM hosts, they can expand their network and maximize returns while offering an essential service.
Conclusion
ATM placement in Canada remains one of the simplest and most effective ways to generate passive income while improving customer satisfaction. From bustling malls and convenience stores to tourist attractions and rural communities, there’s no shortage of high-performing locations.
By focusing on visibility, security, and foot traffic, you can ensure your ATM stands out and delivers consistent profits. Whether you’re a business owner looking to add value to your establishment or an independent operator building your network, choosing the best ATM placement spots is the key to success.
FAQ’s
Q1. Where should I place an ATM for maximum profit?
A: Placing ATMs in busy, visible locations such as convenience stores, malls, and tourist attractions ensures steady transactions and maximizes profitability while offering customers added convenience.
Q2. Are ATM placements still profitable in 2025?
A: Yes! Despite digital payments, cash usage remains strong in Canada, making ATMs a reliable source of passive income for business owners and operators who choose smart locations.
