ATM Placement Strategy

How ATM Placement Can Increase Revenue for Restaurants and Bars

Support Team

May 13, 2026 3 min read

customer withdrawing cash from ATM machine to spend at nearby business

Key Takeaways

A customer planning to spend $20 at a bar often withdraws $40 to $60 once an ATM is on-site, and that surplus regularly turns into extra drinks, tips or entry fees rather than staying unspent.
Positioning the ATM near the bar counter, entrance or gaming areas — where customers already pass repeatedly during a visit — drives more usage than tucking it into a quiet corner.
Restaurants and bars capture two separate revenue streams from one machine: the surcharge fee on each withdrawal and the extra in-venue spending that cash access enables.
Without an on-site ATM, customers who run out of cash tend to stop ordering rather than leave to find one, directly capping how much they spend during the visit.
Machine choice should match the venue's actual traffic pattern — cash capacity and transaction volume expectations should be sized to the venue before finalizing placement.

Restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues often rely on quick, high-volume transactions throughout the day or night. Many purchases in these environments—such as drinks, cover charges, tips, and small food items—are still commonly paid for with cash. Because of this, strategic ATM placement inside the venue can significantly increase both ATM usage and overall business revenue.

By strategically placing ATMs, businesses can encourage more withdrawals, reduce lost sales, and make it easier for customers to spend money without leaving the establishment.

Why ATM Placement Matters

Purchasing an ATM is only the first step. Where the machine is placed inside the venue can greatly influence how often it’s used.

Proper ATM placement ensures that customers notice the machine and can easily access it when they need cash. If the ATM is hidden in a corner or placed in a low-traffic area, customers may not see it—or they may leave the venue to find another ATM nearby.

Strategically placed ATMs help keep transactions inside your business while increasing convenience for guests.

busy bar setting with customers and drinks highlighting hospitality environment

High-Traffic Areas Increase ATM Usage

One of the most important principles of effective ATM placement is visibility. Machines located in high-traffic areas are more likely to be used because customers encounter them naturally during their visit.

Common high-performing ATM locations inside restaurants and bars include:

Near the main entrance
Close to the bar counter
Adjacent to ordering or payment areas
Near restrooms or hallways with frequent traffic
Close to gaming areas, pool tables, or entertainment spaces

These locations ensure customers can quickly access cash without interrupting their experience.

Encouraging More Customer Spending

Strategic ATM placement can directly impact how much customers spend during their visit.

When customers run out of cash, they may stop purchasing drinks, food, or entertainment services. If an ATM is conveniently located inside the venue, They can withdraw cash and continue spending.

For example, a customer who plans to spend $20 may withdraw $40 or $60 once they have access to an ATM. This extra cash often translates into additional purchases such as:

Additional drinks or appetizers
Tips for staff
Entry fees or entertainment charges
Games or other activities

Over time, these additional transactions can significantly increase overall sales.

Generating Revenue from ATM Transactions

In addition to increased customer spending, businesses also benefit from ATM withdrawal transaction fees.

Each time a customer uses the ATM, a surcharge fee is typically added to the transaction. Business owners often receive part or all of that fee depending on their ATM setup.

Because of this, effective ATM placement helps maximize two revenue streams:

ATM surcharge income
Increased customer spending within the venue

For bars and restaurants with consistent traffic, this combination can make an ATM a valuable business asset.

Improving Customer Convenience

Convenience plays a major role in the success of restaurants and bars. Customers want quick service and easy payment options.

Having an ATM placed in a visible and accessible location ensures guests can withdraw cash without leaving the venue or searching for another machine nearby.

Effective ATM placement helps businesses:

Prevent lost sales when customers run out of cash
Reduce customer frustration
Keep guests inside the venue longer
Encourage repeat visits

These factors contribute to a smoother customer experience and higher overall revenue.

Choosing the Right ATM and Placement Strategy

When purchasing an ATM in a restaurant or bar, business owners should consider both the machine type and its location.

Key factors include:

Visibility and foot traffic patterns
Available space within the venue
Security and accessibility
Cash capacity and transaction volume

Planning the right placement strategy helps ensure the ATM delivers consistent performance and strong transaction numbers.

Installing an ATM with the Right Supplier

For businesses looking to add an ATM, working with a trusted supplier simplifies selecting the right machine and determining the best installation approach.

ATM Mega Store focuses on helping businesses purchase ATMs through a fast, online-first experience that includes clear pricing, reliable equipment, and support designed for small and medium-sized businesses. Our mission is to make ATM ownership simple and accessible for businesses nationwide.

With the right machine and strategic ATM placement, restaurants and bars can increase revenue, improve customer convenience, and make every visit more profitable.

Written by

Support Team, ATM Mega Store

Our team works directly with first-time buyers and multi-location operators every day — this guide draws on the equipment, financing and placement questions we field most often.

Keep reading

All articles