Citizens defend themselves against Sparkassen plans: ATMs must remain!

Citizens defend themselves against Sparkassen plans: ATMs must remain!

Hohne, Deutschland - The announcement of the Sparkasse, ATMs and account statement printer in the municipalities of Beedenbostel, Bröckel and Hohne in the district of Celle has triggered a wave of outrage. This message not only causes excitement, but also a mobilized citizens' initiative that defends itself against the plans. Over 1,300 signatures have already been collected, which were ceremoniously handed over to the CEO in Gifhorn, the chairmanship of the supervisory board and the district administrator on Friday. The residents are concerned about the loss of the important sources of cash in their places.

On Friday, another urgent dialogue was opened in Hohne: a seat strike took place directly at the Automats concerned, in which Mayor Jörn Künzle was also involved. The mayor expressed his disappointment with the planned closures and emphasized how indispensable ATMs are for the community. Künzle pointed out the large number of people who rely on cash - especially older people who often do not cope with digital payment methods, as well as young people without checking cards.

cash versus digital solutions

Another point that is up for discussion is the fact that only cash is accepted in the Hohne swimming pool. This circumstances illustrates that many local businesses are still dependent on cash transactions. Künzle and the initiators refuse to avoid the possibility of lifting cash at supermarket coffers. Such alternatives could endanger older citizens who may have difficulties with the new forms of cash procurement.

The trend, however, points in a completely different direction. The Sparkasse has justified the reduction of the machines with the changed payment behavior of the customers. More and more people today use simple solutions for their banking transactions from home-be it through online banking or by smartphone app. In 2024 there were 1,948 ATMs in Lower Saxony, while in 2020 there were 2,041. This decline reflects the challenges with which banks are faced with while adapting to the digital age.

The future of banks

As the Bundesbank, digitization is described as a "mega trend", which is also revolutionizing the financial system. The number of bank branches in Germany dropped to less than 20,000. In 2018 there were still 25,500 branches - contact with the banks was therefore greatly reduced. This is not only an expression of growing online banking, but also the increase in efficiency that it brings.

Despite all of this, the binding of customers to the branches remains strong. Many people use online banking, but still appreciate personal support from bank consultants. This mixture of digital and analogue shows how important the balance between the two continuums is. This not only helps the older citizens, but also those who appreciate direct contact. Interestingly, banks still consist of more than digital offers today; The core functions remain, as the legitimate concerns about the loss of access to cash show.

The current situation in northern Germany is about the availability of cash and the accessibility of banking services in rural areas. Against this background, it will be crucial how Sparkasse and other banks can reconcile the needs of its customers and business considerations. It remains to be seen whether or not this mixture proves to be sustainable. However, one thing is certain: there is something in the air - people are ready to work for their concerns and to point out their needs loudly.