Automated retail kiosks equipped with electronic payment terminals allow consumers to purchase goods without cash. These terminals accept various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and contactless mobile payments. A common example includes machines dispensing snacks, beverages, or travel necessities located in airports, hotels, or office buildings.
Acceptance of electronic transactions expands customer access, increasing sales potential compared to cash-only systems. This technology improves transaction speed and reduces the need for physical currency management, offering benefits for both vendors and consumers. Historically, vending machines primarily relied on cash transactions, but the increasing prevalence of electronic payments has driven the integration of card readers, modernizing the industry and enhancing convenience.