A Halesowen convenience store is reporting a strong community response after installing a new free-to-use cash machine aimed at improving access to cash for local residents.
Nisa Colley Gate officially unveiled the ATM on 29 May with a gold-themed community celebration featuring live music, food vendors, giveaways and a prize draw offering customers the chance to win a share of £1,500.
Store owner Lewis Woodward said the decision to install the machine was driven by growing concerns over cash access in the area, particularly for elderly and vulnerable residents.
“There are many elderly and vulnerable residents here in the community, and there are also several assisted living facilities nearby,” the 22-year-old retailer told Asian Trader.
“I had felt the need to install a free-to-use cash machine for a long time.”
The launch event attracted a range of local businesses and brands, including Antonio’s Ice Cream, AU Vodka, local cupcake vendors and street food traders from Streatery, helping to create a festival atmosphere outside the store.
Lewis Woodward
According to Woodward, the response from customers has exceeded expectations.
“The event was a massive success. We had over 30 transactions per hour according to the ATM company, and sales were around 25 to 30 per cent up on the day,” he said.
Although poor weather in the following week affected footfall, the store still recorded sales growth of between 15 and 20 per cent compared with previous weeks.
Woodward added that many local residents who previously struggled to access cash had already begun using the service.
“We’ve already had a lot of local residents who can’t get about as easily using the ATM. I hope it will save them a lot of time and effort, which was why we did it in the first place,” he said.
“It is my way of giving something back and hopefully bringing a bit of excitement to Colley Gate.”
The installation comes amid continuing concerns about declining access to cash across many communities, with convenience retailers increasingly stepping in to provide essential financial services alongside their core retail offering.
Lewis Woodward