As the cannabis industry continues its rapid expansion, dispensary owners face increasing pressure to modernize their operations—and nowhere is that more evident than in payment systems. With federal banking restrictions still limiting traditional card processing, ATMs remain a vital part of the cannabis retail experience. But the future of ATM use in dispensaries is shifting—and savvy owners need to stay ahead.
Why ATMs Still Matter in Cannabis Retail
While digital payments are growing, cash is still king in cannabis due to ongoing regulatory hurdles. That’s why cannabis dispensary ATMs remain one of the most effective tools for increasing in-store revenue, improving cash flow, and ensuring customers can complete their purchases with ease.
From free ATM placements for marijuana stores to 50/50 profit-sharing models, dispensary owners can turn what was once a basic utility into a passive income stream and a strategic revenue booster.
The Shift Toward Cashless Convenience
The biggest change in cannabis ATM use isn’t going away from ATMs—it’s about enhancing them. Solutions like cashless ATMs and Point of Banking (POB) systems are revolutionizing the space. These systems allow customers to use their debit cards for in-store purchases by processing the transaction as a withdrawal.
Unlike traditional cash-only transactions, cashless ATMs remove friction, reduce walkouts, and enable larger average order values. For example, a customer who might spend $40 with cash could easily increase to $60 or more when debit access is available at checkout.
These systems also improve security by reducing the amount of physical cash on hand and cutting down on the risks of theft, shrinkage, or handling errors—something that every dispensary owner needs to consider in high-traffic environments.

What Modern Dispensary Owners Need to Know
If you’re still relying on old-school cash-only models, you’re leaving money on the table. The future of cannabis retail is about flexible, compliant, and scalable payment solutions. Here’s what to consider:
- Choose Compliant ATM Providers: Not all ATM companies understand the cannabis industry. Work with a cannabis-friendly ATM provider like Greenstar ATM, which specializes in compliant solutions for dispensaries.
- Look for Revenue-Sharing Opportunities: Whether you own your ATM or opt for a free ATM lease, choose a model that boosts your bottom line.
- Stay Ahead with Integrated Payment Options: Forward-thinking dispensaries offer a mix of cash, POB, and PIN debit—ensuring they’re ready for every customer.
- Understand Local Regulations: As cannabis laws continue to evolve state by state, it’s essential to work with a provider that stays on top of compliance, merchant codes, and banking relationships.
Greenstar ATM: Built for What’s Next
Since 2008, Greenstar ATM has helped trailblazing dispensaries across legal markets modernize their cash access systems. Whether you need ATM installation, vaulting services, or no-cost placement, Greenstar provides turnkey solutions that drive profit and customer satisfaction.
With over 15 years of experience, Greenstar offers industry-specific expertise and reliable, scalable solutions designed for dispensaries that want to grow. Whether you’re opening your first store or scaling across multiple locations, Greenstar ATM can help you optimize payments, boost cash flow, and stay compliant every step of the way.
Ready to future-proof your dispensary? Contact Greenstar ATM today to explore how our affordable ATM solutions and cannabis payment expertise can support your next phase of growth.


