As the cannabis industry continues to expand, dispensaries are evolving into retail destinations—places where customer experience matters just as much as product quality. One overlooked yet powerful upgrade? ATM placement.
For cannabis dispensaries operating in a cash-preferred environment, having an ATM isn’t just convenient—it’s mission critical. But it’s not enough to just have an ATM. Where you place it—and how much traffic it gets—directly determines how profitable and effective it will be.
Let’s dive into the importance of high-traffic ATM placement for dispensaries, and how to choose the best spot to increase usage, revenue, and customer satisfaction.
Why ATM Placement Matters in a Dispensary
An ATM in the wrong spot might as well be invisible. Poor placement can lead to:
Lower transaction volume
Missed sales opportunities
Frustrated customers
Unused passive income potential
On the other hand, strategically placed ATMs generate:
Higher surcharge revenue
More in-store purchases
Shorter checkout lines
Better overall flow in your shop
Best Practices for High-Traffic ATM Placement
Here’s what the top-performing dispensaries do to maximize ATM usage:
1. Position the ATM Near the Entrance
Placing the ATM near your store’s front door is one of the most effective strategies. It catches the customer’s eye immediately, especially for those who come in knowing they’ll need cash. It also:
Reduces bottlenecks at the register
Gives customers a chance to get cash before browsing
Helps avoid awkward cash shortages at checkout
2. Avoid Back Corners or Obstructed Views
Your ATM should be clearly visible and accessible, not hidden behind product displays or in low-traffic back rooms. If a customer has to ask where it is, it’s probably not in the best spot.
Visibility = usage.
3. Place Near Waiting Areas (If Applicable)
If your dispensary has a lobby or queue, this is another ideal location. Customers waiting for service often use this time to grab cash—turning downtime into revenue.
4. Use Signage to Promote ATM Availability
Even in a high-traffic location, clear signage inside and outside the store improves usage. Examples:
“Need Cash? ATM Inside”
“No Card? No Problem—ATM at the Front”
Small countertop signs at registers or menus
The more awareness, the more transactions.
5. Prioritize Security and Lighting
Your ATM should be placed in well-lit, secure areas with camera coverage. Not only does this protect your cash and customers—it also increases usage. People are more likely to use an ATM when they feel safe.
What Makes an ATM Location “High Traffic”?
In cannabis retail, “high-traffic” isn’t just about overall footfall—it’s about strategic customer flow.
Top-performing ATM placements tend to be:
Near entrances or exits
Along main customer pathways
In stores with 150+ daily customers
In locations with limited nearby ATM access
In short: If customers see it, need it, and can easily access it, it’s a high-traffic spot.
ATM Revenue Potential in Dispensaries
A well-placed ATM in a cannabis dispensary can produce $400–$1,200+ in monthly surcharge revenue, depending on:
Traffic volume
Surcharge amount (usually $2.50–$3.50)
Machine uptime
Awareness and accessibility
The better the placement, the better the results.
Who Handles the ATM?
Dispensaries typically have three options:
Free ATM Placement – A provider installs and maintains the machine; you earn a cut of each transaction.
ATM Lease – You pay a small monthly fee, keep more revenue.
ATM Ownership – You buy the machine, keep 100% of the surcharge, and handle cash loading.
Regardless of the model, high-traffic placement remains the most important factor in success.
Need Help Placing Your Dispensary ATM?
There are many companies offering ATM services—but few understand the specific needs of cannabis retail.
💡 AlmasCash is one of the few ATM providers that specialize in full-service solutions for marijuana dispensaries. We handle everything from installation and cash loading to compliance, helping you choose the ideal ATM location inside your store to maximize usage and revenue.
Whether you need a free placement, want to lease, or prefer to own the machine outright, AlmasCash ensures your ATM is seen, used, and profitable.
📞 Ready to Maximize ATM Traffic in Your Dispensary?
Don’t let poor placement limit your ATM’s earning potential. Contact a cannabis-friendly provider today and optimize your store for success.