News

Drive-thru fee-free ATM station to open in Houston

August 14, 2011

According to Houston's Culture Map, a surcharge fee-free ATM station with six drive-thru lanes has been built on Highway 59 in an area known as Upper Kirby.

The idea came from R. Michael Villarreal, founder and president of Flite Banking Centers, who has secured long-term leases with Chase, Frost and Wells Fargo.

"I really came up with it out of necessity," he said. "I'm a father and always need cash to pay a babysitter and for those sort of things. I was looking for convenience, security and a better way to use an ATM than in the middle of a parking lot or the dark side of a bank branch."

According to the article, Villarreal plans to open more ATM drive-thru centers in the area, eventually expanding to major markets in California.

"I want to build this nation-wide," Villarreal said.

Flite is providing the initial investment, with plans to bring in money through leasing fees and digital advertising targeted toward drivers.

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