Reduction in ATM Availability: Decrease in ATM Count
In a significant shift towards digital transactions, Germany has witnessed a decrease in the number of ATMs and money transfer terminals, with around 22,500 money transfer terminals remaining by the end of 2024 - a three percent decrease from the previous year[1]. This decline is indicative of a broader trend in the country, where cashless transactions, particularly card payments, are becoming increasingly common.
The rise of digital payments, including card and smartphone transactions, has significantly contributed to this decline. In 2024, card payments in Germany increased by 11 percent compared to the previous year, accounting for a substantial portion of non-bank transactions[1]. This shift is driven by technological advancements and the convenience of digital transactions, such as instant SEPA transfers, which have surged by 37 percent[1].
The reduction in physical bank branches has also impacted the availability of ATMs, making it harder for people to access cash. This trend is part of a broader strategy to reduce operational costs and adapt to changing customer preferences[3]. Additionally, banks are under pressure to optimize their infrastructure costs, making the maintenance of a large ATM network less viable economically, leading to a reduction in the number of ATMs[2].
The decline in ATMs may lead to longer journeys for cash withdrawals. In 2023, there were about 51,300 ATMs in Germany, marking a three percent decrease by the end of 2024, leaving approximately 49,750 remaining[2]. However, the rise of digital payments has also led to a diversification in payment methods, including mobile wallets and contactless payments, which further reduce the need for cash and ATMs[1][4].
While digital payments offer convenience, they also pose challenges for certain demographics, such as older generations, who may prefer cash. Efforts by banks, like Deutsche Bank's partnership with Paysafe, aim to support cash access while promoting digital engagement[3].
In conclusion, the move towards digital payments in Germany reflects broader global trends, where technological advancements and changing consumer behaviors are reshaping the financial landscape. The shift towards digital transactions is set to continue, with the number of card payment transactions in Germany exceeding the previous year's number in 2024[1].
[1] Statista (2025). "Number of ATMs and Money Transfer Terminals in Germany from 2018 to 2024." [2] Deutsche Welle (2024). "Germany's ATM network continues to shrink." [3] Reuters (2024). "Deutsche Bank partners with Paysafe to support cash access." [4] The Financial Times (2024). "The rise of mobile payments in Germany."
Other financial institutions in Germany are anticipated to follow suit, potentially reducing the number of ATMs even further as they strive to reduce operational costs and align with customer preferences for digital transactions. This shift towards digital finance continues to gain momentum, with many people opting for other finance methods such as online banking and mobile payments, reducing the need for physical ATMs and money transfer terminals.
