Is a Circle K franchisee required to maintain an ATM at the franchised location, and are there any exceptions?

According to Circle K's 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document, franchisees are generally required to maintain a functioning ATM at their franchised location. However, this requirement can be waived by Circle K. This means that while an ATM is typically expected, there is a possibility that a franchisee may be exempt from this obligation, depending on the specific circumstances and with the franchisor's approval.

For a prospective franchisee, this implies that they should anticipate the cost and responsibility of maintaining an ATM as part of their initial investment and ongoing operational expenses. This includes the purchase or lease of the ATM, maintenance, cash management, and security. However, it also presents an opportunity to discuss the possibility of a waiver with Circle K during the franchise application process, especially if there are specific reasons why an ATM might not be suitable or profitable for a particular location.

The decision to grant a waiver is at Circle K's discretion, so franchisees should be prepared to present a strong case if they seek an exemption. Factors that might influence this decision could include the location of other ATMs nearby, the demographics of the customer base, or any local regulations that might make ATM operation difficult or costly. Understanding the conditions under which Circle K might grant a waiver is a crucial part of due diligence for potential franchisees.

It is important to note that Circle K retains the right to make changes to the Business System as it deems appropriate, including changes to building appearance and image requirements. Franchisees must operate the store under the Circle K Business System and Marks in strict compliance with the terms of the Franchise Agreement.