A Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an ATM Business

Starting your own ATM business is exciting and challenging at the same time; and, while it might seem taxing at times, it has every chance of creating profitability leading to long-term growth. The best investment in your ATM business that you can make at this point is found in the creation of your business plan. This document will coordinate every segment of your business into a cohesive picture of your ATM business, including your mission and objectives, financial projections, customer research, competitive analysis and the marketing strategies your ATM company will employ. This is the right time to get started on your step-by-step guide!

A Step-by-Step Guide to Starting an ATM Business

Step 1: Analyze Your ATM Business Concept

No matter how large or small your ATM business will be upon startup, it is important to consider the elements that will make it viable in the ATM marketplace. Ask yourself some questions to determine if your concept is a winning one: Does the marketplace where you’ll position ATM machines already contain ATM machines owned by a competitor? Who will use your ATM machines? How much traffic will use your ATM machines? What charges will you set for various ATM functions desired by customers? You’ll want to analyze these questions and sketch out the answers before positioning your ATM machines in your business plan. 

Step 2: Research Your Target Audience and Your Competition

After analyzing your ATM business concept, the next step is to determine the target audience for your ATM machines. If you don’t have a territory already selected and contracted, consider the areas that attract the most traffic, such as shopping malls, grocery stores, busy retail districts, laundry services, and other community gathering areas. Research the areas that are highly-populated and map out the specific locations for your ATM machines. Determine ahead of time the percentage of profits you’ll need to pay to locate your ATM machines within the places of your choice. Ensure there is stable electricity and other safeguards to ensure each ATM machine placement will be secure. Each of these considerations will support your business plan and create your next steps as you prepare the ATM business for startup. 

Step 3: Create Your ATM Business Plan

It’s time to begin the building process of your business plan and, if you don’t yet have one, consider this piece on how to start an atm business step by step. You’ll want to thoroughly describe your ATM business in your plan, including your operations, resources, future plans and financial forecasts. Each section of your business plan will build on the others to create the current status and future-forward picture of your ATM business in the years ahead. Place your concept analysis, target audience research and competitor segments into your ATM business plan and add the additional segments needed as you complete them. 

The completion of your business plan may take some time and effort; however, in the immediate, it will also offer the opportunity to garner funding for your startup, if needed. Your ATM business plan can be presented to lenders, investors, banks or financial institutions to present for startup funding. You will want to continue updating your business plan in the years ahead, as it can be utilized for growth funding, expansion, franchising, and other considerations, as well. 

Step 4: Create the Financial Projections for Your ATM Business

Every professional business plan contains financial projections which include both expected income sources and expenses associated with starting the business. In addition to giving clarity to the current financial condition of your ATM machine business, the projections will help potential investors or lenders understand the financial needs and potential of your business. When calculating the financial projections, consider the cost of marketing, ATM machines you’ll need to purchase, and other necessary investments. 

Step 5: Outline Your Marketing Strategies

Your business plan should include general ideas for ways your ATM business will connect with current and potential customers. Include online outreach potential, email blast campaigns, and email announcements. Include Facebook and Instagram posts and special text offers for referrals from current customers. Every online and social media platform can become a marketing tool for your ATM business; search for the media strategy that works best; and, then, use it again.

You can start your ATM business and build an impressive and impactful business plan at the same time. The steps outlined here will bring clarity, purpose and long-term success to your ATM business. We hope you enjoy the ride! 

Francis Nwokike

Francis Nwokike is the Founder and Chief Editor of The Total Entrepreneurs. A Social Entrepreneur and experienced Disaster Manager. He loves researching and discussing business trends and providing startups with valuable insights into running a profitable business. He created TTE to share ideas and tips to help entrepreneurs run and grow their businesses.