In the digital age, where cashless transactions are on the rise, you might assume that Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are becoming obsolete. However, the reality is far from it. Across Canada, ATM installation remains a profitable venture, especially when machines are placed in strategic, high-traffic locations. Whether you are an entrepreneur, a business owner looking to boost your revenue, or a financial services provider, knowing where to place an ATM can significantly impact your returns.
Canada’s vast and diverse geography presents countless opportunities for deploying ATMs, from bustling city centers and suburban strips to rural communities and seasonal tourist hubs. With the right placement strategy and tools like an ATM profit calculator, you can estimate returns and make data-driven decisions that boost your bottom line.
In this article, we’ll explore the top ATM locations in Canada, share ATM location tips, and show how to get the most from every machine.
Best Locations for ATM Installation in Canada to Maximize Profit
1. Convenience Stores and Gas Stations
Why do they work?
These are some of the most popular and effective locations for ATM installation. Convenience stores and gas stations operate long hours (often 24/7) and experience consistent foot traffic. Many people still prefer paying in cash for small purchases, and having an ATM nearby encourages them to withdraw money on-site.
Profit Potential:
High. Since customers often make impulse withdrawals and spend part of the cash in-store, merchants benefit from both surcharge revenue and increased sales.
2. Bars, Nightclubs, and Entertainment Venues
Why do they work?
These establishments deal heavily in cash, from cover charges to drink purchases to tipping staff. An in-house ATM not only adds convenience for patrons but also reduces the burden on staff who might otherwise need to handle cash change.
Profit Potential:
Very high. Usage rates tend to spike during weekends and events, which can lead to hundreds of transactions per month.
ATM location tip:
Place the ATM near the entrance or restrooms for visibility and accessibility, while still maintaining a secure environment.
3. Cannabis Stores and Vape Shops
Why do they work?
Due to ongoing limitations around credit card processing in the cannabis industry, many cannabis dispensaries and vape shops across Canada rely heavily on cash transactions. This makes them prime targets for ATM installation.
Profit Potential:
High and consistent. These businesses see regular, loyal customers, and the need for in-store cash access is constant.
4. Tourist Areas and Seasonal Destinations
Why do they work?
Places like Banff, Niagara Falls, Whistler, and other popular seasonal spots often have a high density of foot traffic, especially during spring and summer. Tourists may prefer paying in cash, especially for smaller transactions or in areas with poor mobile connectivity.
Profit Potential:
Seasonal but lucrative. While there might be low activity in off-seasons, peak months can generate substantial income.
ATM location tip:
Use an ATM profit calculator to forecast high and low seasons to plan cash-loading and maintenance cycles accordingly.
5. Shopping Plazas and Strip Malls
Why do they work?
Mid-sized commercial areas with multiple tenants attract a mix of foot traffic. People visiting salons, takeout spots, dry cleaners, and other small retailers are likely to use an ATM if one is available on-site.
Profit Potential:
Moderate to high, depending on overall footfall and the number of cash-based retailers.
Where to place an ATM:
ATM Installation in common areas, near entrances, or next to anchor tenants to attract maximum visibility and usage.
6. Transit Hubs: Train & Bus Stations
Why do they work?
Travelers often require cash for taxis, snack purchases, or tips. With thousands of daily users in hubs like Toronto’s Union Station or Vancouver’s Waterfront Station, even a small percentage of ATM users can add up quickly.
Profit Potential:
Very high. Consistent daily traffic across all demographics ensures steady usage.
7. University Campuses and Student Housing
Why do they work?
Despite being tech-savvy, many students still use cash for daily expenses like food, laundry, second-hand shopping, and social events. Having a conveniently placed ATM in or near student residences or dining halls can be incredibly profitable.
Profit Potential:
High during academic months (September to April). Usage may drop during summer.
ATM location tip:
Partner with campus housing boards or private landlords for exclusive access to student-heavy zones.
8. Ethnic Grocery Stores and Community Plazas
Why do they work?
Many immigrant communities continue to prefer cash transactions for convenience or budgeting purposes. ATMs placed in ethnic grocery stores, halal meat shops, or community centers provide value and accessibility.
Profit Potential:
Stable and often overlooked by major ATM providers, making this a great niche opportunity.
9. Gaming Lounges, Casinos, and Adult Entertainment Venues
Why do they work?
Cash is king in these spaces. Whether it’s for games, tipping, or other services, customers rely on fast cash access without leaving the premises.
Profit Potential:
Extremely high. A single ATM in these environments can make several hundred to thousands of dollars in surcharge fees per month.
Where to place an ATM:
Ensure it’s within easy walking distance of the main entertainment floor but still secure and well-lit.
10. Rural Towns and Underserved Communities
Why do they work?
Some small Canadian towns may only have one or two ATMs (if any). In such cases, your ATM could become the community’s go-to source for cash.
Profit Potential:
Moderate but dependable. Since competition is low, machines are used consistently by locals.
ATM location tip:
Use geo-targeting tools and demographic analysis to identify towns lacking nearby ATM services.
Using an ATM Profit Calculator
Before you commit to a location, use an ATM profit calculator to estimate potential earnings. These calculators consider:
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Average transactions per month
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Surcharge fees (e.g., $2–$3 per transaction)
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Cost of machine maintenance and cash loading
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Revenue sharing (if placed in a partner location)
By inputting location-specific data, you can better understand the ROI and prioritize high-earning zones.
Key ATM Location Tips for Success
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Visibility is Vital: Ensure the machine is visible to passersby. Hidden or poorly lit ATMs are often ignored.
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Security Matters: Place the ATM in a monitored or well-lit area to ensure customer safety and reduce vandalism.
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Partner with High-Cash Businesses: Liquor stores, corner stores, and small service providers are more likely to need cash-focused solutions.
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Track Performance: Monitor usage monthly and use the data to decide whether to move, upgrade, or add more machines.
How MB ATM Can Help
If you’re unsure where to place an ATM, partnering with professionals like MB ATM gives you access to expert site selection, ongoing support, and performance tracking. MB ATM has years of experience across Canada and can help with:
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Scouting high-traffic locations
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Installing and servicing ATMs
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Providing reporting tools and profit estimates
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Connecting you with revenue-sharing partners
Their team uses market analysis, real-time data, and direct industry relationships to ensure your machines are placed in the most profitable environments possible.
Conclusion
ATM profitability in Canada is less about the machine and more about the location. Whether it’s a bustling nightclub, a remote town, or a student campus, the right placement can turn a simple machine into a steady stream of passive income.
With strategic planning, tools like an ATM profit calculator, and support from experienced companies like MB ATM, you can maximize your earnings and minimize risk.
FAQ’s
Q1. What are the most profitable ATM locations?
A: High-traffic areas like bars, cannabis stores, transit hubs, and tourist spots tend to generate the most ATM usage and profit due to constant demand for cash.
Q2. How much can an ATM make per month?
A: An ATM in a great location can make $300–$1,000+ monthly from surcharge fees, depending on traffic and usage rates. Profitability varies by footfall and user behavior.
Q3. Does MB ATM help with site selection?
A: Yes, MB ATM provides full-service support, including site scouting, profitability analysis, and location setup to ensure your ATM is positioned for maximum success.
