Tremont Capital Group, an ATM-industry consultancy that works closely with the ATM Industry Association, has released its 2009 ATM Industry Fact Sheet, which summarizes the history and current state of the ATM industry.
 
Among its findings, Tremont Capital Group estimates that 401,500 ATMs are currently deployed within the United States, approximately 202,500 (50 percent) of which are now operated by independent sales organizations.  Tremont Capital Group predicts that rapid consolidation in the ISO sector will continue in the near-term, until consolidators acquire the nation's remaining viable small- to mid-sized ATM portfolios.
 
"As the United States marks the 40th anniversary of its first ATMs, the number of ATMs deployed in the nation has surpassed the 400,000 milestone and cash remains the dominant payment mechanism for consumers," said Sam M. Ditzion, chief executive of Tremont Capital Group. "Tremont Capital Group anticipates three key trends in the industry in 2009. First, average ATM transaction volumes will stabilize and possibly increase as consumer credit standards continue to tighten and the deleveraging process deepens. Second, financial institutions will slightly consolidate their ATM networks, while continuing to implement check-imaging upgrades on an accelerated basis. Third, the ISO sector of the ATM industry will experience continued merger and acquisition activity."
 
Tremont Capital Group's report is available for free from the company's Web site.