The convenience of an ATM, but so much more

Iria · Apr 1, 2006, 10:29 PM

Would you like some financial services with that coffee?

Convenience stores, best known to weary motorists as sources for drinks and snack chips, are starting to gain a reputation as good places to pay bills, cash checks, send money and buy cell phone minutes. Automated teller machines have long been a staple in these stores, but now several major chains are installing kiosks that are able to do a lot more.

Way ahead of the curve is 7-Eleven, which is introducing its second wave of custom-made terminals called Vcoms this year. Often referred to as ATM's on steroids, the more than 1,000 Vcoms dispense cash, sell Verizon services, handle bill payments and let customers send money to other people. They can also cash checks to the penny, simultaneously snapping front-and-back digital images of the checks and dispensing a receipt with the images on it.

Aiming to keep up with 7-Eleven, Exxon Mobil and Circle K have introduced bill payment kiosks in some areas, with plans to take the programs national. Sunoco just set up a pilot involving the same type of kiosks. These machines are expected to become standard in convenience stores of all sizes.
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Read More / Source: News.com

Apr 1, 2006, 10:29 PM	#1
Iria DriverHeaven Extreme Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Posts: 7,275 Rep Power: 87	The convenience of an ATM, but so much more Would you like some financial services with that coffee? Convenience stores, best known to weary motorists as sources for drinks and snack chips, are starting to gain a reputation as good places to pay bills, cash checks, send money and buy cell phone minutes. Automated teller machines have long been a staple in these stores, but now several major chains are installing kiosks that are able to do a lot more. Way ahead of the curve is 7-Eleven, which is introducing its second wave of custom-made terminals called Vcoms this year. Often referred to as ATM's on steroids, the more than 1,000 Vcoms dispense cash, sell Verizon services, handle bill payments and let customers send money to other people. They can also cash checks to the penny, simultaneously snapping front-and-back digital images of the checks and dispensing a receipt with the images on it. Aiming to keep up with 7-Eleven, Exxon Mobil and Circle K have introduced bill payment kiosks in some areas, with plans to take the programs national. Sunoco just set up a pilot involving the same type of kiosks. These machines are expected to become standard in convenience stores of all sizes. ___________ Read More / Source: News.com