STRATEGIC PARTNERS
The Universal ATM Network's MoneyTel CD is designed for merchants who need every inch of floor space they've got. It can be installed through the counter.by Ann All, editor
January 19, 2000
You say you don't have room for an ATM at your tiny retail location? Joseph Vu begs to differ. Vu, president of the Universal ATM Network in Sacramento, Calif., has modified his stand-alone MoneyTel Cash Dispenser, with its diminutive 16-by-18 footprint, so that it can be installed through a countertop. According to Vu, it's simply a matter of drilling six, half-inch holes on a countertop and a small slot in front. "The integrity of the counter isn't compromised at all," he said. "If they decide to remove it, a display can cover it up after the fact." Vu has deployed 25 of the countertop models since introducing the concept at Faulkner & Gray's Advanced ATM Conference in late October. He said it's most appropriate for merchants where space is at a premium, such as small gas stations. "It's for locations that typically didn't qualify for an ATM before because of cost issues and space issues." The MoneyTel can also be installed as a conventional freestanding dispenser. Vu said he is working on configuring a through-the-wall version. The Verifone-based machine has one cassette that holds up to 2,100 bills and a De La Rue dispenser. Cash is loaded from the rear, behind the counter. Vu said most merchants with a MoneyTel do their own cash replenishment and, often, much of their own service. Noting that the MoneyTel has only three main components, Vu said, "We are continuing to lower the cost of the ATM by using the 'keep it simple' method. Our clients are not looking for iris recognition, biometrics, money order machines, Internet ATMs and all those other fancy features that raise the price of an ATM." Vu said his no-frills MoneyTel dispensers are priced to compete with machines in the $3,000 range. At that price level, he added, it's possible to offer a lease payment of under $100 a month.
