Banks cut cash withdrawal service from Shell stations
Starting from June 30, millions of customers in Germany will lose a service that was taken for granted: withdrawing cash from Shell gas stations. This change comes after the end of the collaboration between the Cash Group and Shell stations, directly affecting customers of banks such as Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, Hypovereinsbank, and Postbank.
Previously, around 1,300 Shell stations across Germany served as a lifeline for those needing to withdraw cash outside of bank hours, such as in the evening or on holidays, without having to purchase any product as is the case in stores. It was possible to withdraw up to 1,000 euros daily, but this option will end at the end of June.
The spokesperson for Deutsche Bank and Postbank described this move as a "strategic realignment," but it actually represents a significant reduction in a service relied upon by many, especially in rural areas, where Shell stations were sometimes the only option for accessing cash. The most affected groups are the elderly and residents of remote areas.
Despite the presence of around 53,000 ATMs in Germany, most of which belong to Sparkasse and Volksbank banks, access to them is not always easy. There is also the option to withdraw cash while shopping at stores like Aldi, Rewe, Edeka, and DM, but this is often conditional on making a minimum purchase.
A digital alternative promoted by Postbank is the "Bargeld-Code" service, where customers can generate a code via the app and withdraw cash from over 12,500 stores. However, this service is not feasible for those who do not own a smartphone or find it difficult to use apps. The termination of the collaboration with Shell is a step that deepens the gap between digital trends and the accessibility of traditional banking services. While tech-savvy groups benefit from new solutions, others – especially in rural areas or among the elderly – face increasing difficulties in withdrawing their cash.