Morrisons Introduces ATM Withdrawal Charges at Convenience Stores
Morrisons has confirmed a significant change affecting dozens of its Morrisons Daily convenience stores across the United Kingdom, including locations in Birmingham. The supermarket giant has implemented a new fee for customers withdrawing cash from ATMs at these stores, a move that has left many shoppers frustrated and disappointed.
Customer Outcry Over New ATM Fees
The decision to charge for ATM withdrawals has sparked immediate backlash from customers. One shopper took to social media to express their dissatisfaction, stating that the fees are "very unfair" and represent "another tax on people and your money." They noted that free withdrawals have been a long-standing precedent and urged others to contact their local MPs in protest. Another customer confirmed they had already reached out to their MP regarding the issue.
It is important to clarify that the ATMs in question are operated by an external provider, meaning Morrisons does not directly control the pricing decisions. However, the implementation of these fees at Morrisons Daily stores marks a notable shift in customer experience at the retailer's convenience locations.
Broader Decline in Free-to-Use ATMs Across the UK
This change at Morrisons is part of a larger national trend affecting access to free cash withdrawal services. According to recent data from LINK, the organization that manages the UK's ATM network, the total number of cash machines across the country decreased by five percent over the past year, with only 42,403 ATMs operational by December 2025.
More strikingly, the number of free-to-use ATMs has seen a sharp decline. There are currently 33,710 free machines available, down significantly from 52,040 in 2019. This represents a loss of over 18,000 free ATMs in just six years, highlighting the rapid pace of change in how consumers access cash.
Decreasing ATM Usage and Industry Criticism
ATM usage has also been on a downward trajectory. In 2025, there were 832 million cash withdrawals made in the UK, which is 87 million fewer than in 2024—a drop of nine percent. This decline in usage may be contributing to the reduction in available machines and the introduction of fees at previously free locations.
Ron Delnevo, chair and spokesperson of the Payment Choice Alliance, has been vocal in criticizing the rate of ATM closures. He calculated that approximately seven free-to-use ATMs have been removed every single day since January 2018, totaling around 19,000 machines lost. Delnevo emphasized the impact this has on consumer choice and access to cash, particularly for those who rely on physical currency for daily transactions.
The introduction of ATM fees at Morrisons Daily stores serves as a microcosm of this broader issue, affecting shoppers in Birmingham and beyond who frequent these convenience locations for quick access to cash.
