ATM Network dispenses support for new operators in changing industry

ATM machines aren't just cash machines for busy people willing to pay a fee for the convenience of fast cash. For their operators, they are a significant source of revenue. ATM Network, the distributor of ATM machines for three major manufacturers, has witnessed numerous waves of technological advances over the last 14 years that have increased efficiencies and capabilities.

"We're seeing a growing number of amusement operators get started in the ATM business," said Kurt Duhn, General Manager. "Close to 20% of all the ATMs we have deployed are with operators that have a fleet of machines, and we see that increasing constantly."

Creating relationships with operators who are well connected with local businesses has been essential to ATM Network's machine placement, which now totals more than 5,000 ATM machines nationwide. "We want to ensure that we have an ATM operator in a region who is looking to put in a lot of machines, stated Duhn. "We see an ever growing quantity of people today looking to run their own ATM business. They run as many as a couple or a couple hundred."

Assisting in the growth of those relationships is a nationwide network of service providers operating 24 hrs a day, seven days a week. Headquartered in Minnetonka, Minn., ATM Network's service department provides support for the regional five-state area. That's critical to the company's role as a respected ATM industry authority: to be of service throughout and immediately after the sale. Duhn noted, "The one thing that has really created success for us is taking this business one machine at a time. Above all else, we've focused on service."

Increases in ATM machines on vending routes seem to coincide with higher numbers of merchants unable to own and operate their own machines due to the economic slowdown. "In these economic times it seems like we get more and more people saying that they don't have the cash to load," Duhn observed, highlighting industry statistics which state that on average, 25% of the cash withdrawn from ATMs gets spent at the location, with a higher percentage in bars and nightclubs. "It's worked out great for other operators to put them in."

ATM Network is committed to creating new avenues for assisting operators who are looking to grow their businesses aggressively, with the latest being a new marketing program that is implemented on their behalf. Targeted direct mail campaigns within specified geographic areas and SIC parameters will help spread the word regarding the potential of ATM machines for customer service while underscoring the value of operator support."We can co-op these types of marketing programs with operators, and even add in telemarketing efforts to follow up on these mailers," stated Duhn.

ATM Network constantly looks for ways of strengthening their ties to consumers by building solid relationships with business owners as well as service technicians. "We still have great relationships with all of our operators and merchants, some going back again to 1996. We know them by name, and we try to match them up with people who will work together well."

For more information, visit http://www.atmnetwork.net