News

Ethiopia's United Bank to triple ATM count

July 8, 2013

United Bank, an Addis Ababa-based commercial bank with 72 branches across Ethiopia, has awarded a contract to Lebanese IAD Computer Business Machines for 50 new Diebold ATMs. The purchase will increase the United ATM fleet from 20 machines to 70.

A United executive said that CBM beat out Indian supplier Copy Cat, the only other company invited to participate in the tender, said a report by All Africa. The source also said that suppliers were shortlisted for quick procurement of machines exclusively from Diebold Inc. — the manufacturer of the bank's existing ATMs. 

The United ATM fleet is networked through Premier Switch Services, which was formed by United, Awash International Bank and Nib international Bank, who remain major shareholders of the network. Through PSS, United customers have access to the ATMs of Awash and Nib, which also currently have 20 ATMs each.

According to the All Africa report, Awash and Nib also plan to increase their ATM footprints. Awash is expected to contract for 100 new machines and Nib is said to be adding another 50 ATMs.

The United Bank executive, who wished to remain anonymous, said he expected that CBM would deliver the FI's new ATMs within the next three months.

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