In-Store ATMs Drive Significant Customer Spending and Repeat Visits

Research by NCR Atleos examining over 300,000 responses across UK ATMs found that more than half of customers visit stores more frequently because of ATM availability, with 37% spending their withdrawn cash in-store. Applied to the £1.35 billion dispensed across major convenience and supermarket locations, the data suggests approximately £499.5 million in associated in-store spending. The findings demonstrate that ATMs serve as critical infrastructure linking consumers, retailers, and financial services while supporting store economics.

The research examined customer behaviour across a substantial sample of nearly 4,650 ATM locations in UK retail settings during June 2026. The data reveals multiple dimensions of consumer reliance on in-store cash access: the vast majority visit these locations specifically to withdraw funds, while a significant proportion incorporate the ATM visit into broader shopping trips. Beyond immediate withdrawal patterns, the study identifies strong loyalty effects, with customers reporting increased store visitation frequency and consistent machine usage.

The economic calculations suggest substantial commercial value. When the 37% spending rate is applied to the £1.35 billion monthly cash dispensed across these retail ATM networks, it implies roughly half a billion pounds in associated store expenditure. The findings also indicate community-level effects, with most respondents believing their local areas would suffer without convenient ATM access in neighbourhood retail spaces.