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CaixaBank to invest $659 million in next-gen ATMs

CaixaBank, Spain's largest ATM network operator, intends to start installation of its new generation ATMs this year; the process will take 10 years to complete.

August 28, 2014

CaixaBank, operator of Spain's largest ATM network, has announced that it will invest 500 million euros ($659 million) to roll out its next generation of ATMs. According to a news release from Caixa, the bank has commissioned Fujitsu to manufacture 8,500 new terminals equipped with the latest technology.

One feature to be incorporated immediately is a contactless card reader that can be used not only with cards, but also with mobile phones and wearable devices. Caixa estimates that this capability will make transactions go 30 percent faster. New units will also be equipped with automatic banknote recognition and recycling units.

FI and manufacturer will work hand-in-hand over the coming years to develop and implement new services and capabilities in the fleet; Fujitsu will also provide services to ensure maximum network availability and service quality.

CaixaBank intends to start installation of the first new generation cashpoints this year. The process will run for the next ten years, concluding in 2024, the release said. Fujitsu has already started making the new terminals at its manufacturing facility in Málaga.

Created with the customer in mind

CaixaBank's custom-designed Punt Groc ATM was developed with input from customers, and includes a dual screen layout — one screen to handle transactions and the other to provide customer support. The network also features advanced banknote recognition and direct check deposit technologies.

Software allows the machines to display a startup screen that is fully customized to user preferences. The customer can choose from 250 different transactions in a "style book," including personalized and controlled cash withdrawals and specification of banknote denominations dispensed. Additionally, users can select from 17 different languages, including Chinese, Russian and Arabic.

The new CaixaBank machines also support functionalities for the elderly, the disabled, and users with little to no experience in using electronic devices.

These support tools include an avatar who uses sign language, high­-contrast screens, large text and buttons, a screen reader, and keyboard browsing.

Last year, CaixaBank terminals around the world carried out 560 million transactions a year, with cash withdrawals exceeding 32.4 billion euros ($42.2 billion).

CaixaBank has a network of over 9,000 cashpoints, with more than 12.4 million cards issued. The FI boasts more than 4.2 million mobile banking clients and has topped 10 million downloads of its applications for mobile devices.