Consumers Like Advanced ATMs ... All Things Being Equal.

• Author: Albro, Walt
• Position: Brief Article

A new study indicates that consumers would be happy to use an enhanced ATM capable of vending stamps, coupons or event tickets--assuming they were secure, convenient and economical. At the same time, consumers express doubts that banks would be the best providers of such a service.

The study by Dove Consulting, an international strategy firm, said that 81 percent of the consumers surveyed said they would use advanced-functioning ATMs, but less than a third of the consumers surveyed believed banks could deliver adequately on this potential.

Survey respondents indicated a preference for ATMs operated by Internet service providers (ISPs) when it comes to ATMs capable of such functions as vending stamps, coupons or event tickets. Respondents believed ISPs would have more technology and online shopping expertise and that they would probably...