Automation of cash processing at the point of sale

Almost half a million cash handling devices in use worldwide

21.03.2025

by Julia Pott

More and more retailers around the world are turning to automated cash processing. New studies show that the use of cash handling devices is increasing rapidly in Europe, the USA and other markets. Small businesses in particular, such as bakeries and pharmacies, are benefiting from the technology.

POS cash automation on the rise, especially among SMEs

Stacked coins in front of a dark background; Copyright: Adobe Express

According to the latest “Global Retail Cash Automation” study by Datos Insights, almost 470,000 cash automation devices were installed at checkouts in retail and hospitality businesses worldwide at the end of 2024. Over 80% of these devices have a recycling function, making cash processing more efficient and secure.

Japan has long been a pioneer in this technology sector. It is followed by European markets, particularly in Spain and the UK, but also in the USA. Overall, installations outside Japan have increased by 39% since 2022.

More than half of the cash automation devices installed are in food retail. In addition, the technology is particularly interesting for smaller businesses such as bakeries, pharmacies and butchers, as it improves hygiene and minimizes the risk of theft.

Advantages of automated cash processing

Hygiene: Employees no longer have to touch cash, which is particularly advantageous in the food retail and gastronomy sectors.
Security: Less cash in the till reduces the risk of theft.
Efficiency: Faster transactions and lower error rates during checkout.
Cost savings: Less manual cash accounting and lower personnel costs.

Automated cash management in the back office: growth factors are security and staff shortages

In addition to checkout automation, the area of back-office devices is also experiencing strong growth. At the end of 2024, around 650,000 of these systems were installed worldwide, an increase of 24% since 2022. These devices, including smart safes and banknote recycling systems, are primarily used by large retailers such as Walmart and Target.

In Africa and America, security is the main driver of demand, while in Asia, rising labor costs and a shortage of skilled workers are driving increasing automation.

Automation remains a decisive factor for retailers

Investment in cash automation is likely to increase further. According to forecasts, the number of installed devices is set to grow to 1.6 million over the next five years. “Cash usage remains strong across many parts of the world and even where it is declining there is appetite among retailers to reduce the costs of handling cash per transaction. Technology plays a vital role here, with investment in automation set to continue rising,” explains Alex Maple, head of the study.

Source: Datos Insights press release

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