From Gas Station Pitch to 300+ ATMs: Yonas's ATM Growth Secrets | ATM TALKS E0007

Welcome to ATM TALKS — the show where we interview real ATM operators, processors, and industry pros to bring you unfiltered, practical knowledge about running an ATM business.In this episode, we sit down with Yonas Markos of Gold Star Financial. Based in Maryland with over 18 years in the industry, Yonas has scaled his operation from a single, foundational gas station deal to managing several hundred ATMs across more than 20 states.This is essential listening for any operator looking to understand the long-game strategy, partnership building, and operational discipline required to turn hustle into a sustainable, multi-state portfolio.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Power of a Single Deal: How Yonas's first successful gas station pitch became the cornerstone for exponential growth and referrals.Scaling a Multi-State Empire: The operational model and partnership strategies for managing a fleet of several hundred ATMs across 20+ states.The Long-Term Playbook: Insights on securing and maintaining merchant contracts that last 15 years or more.The Critical "Hustle Phase": Yonas's candid story of starting "by accident" and the grind required to land that crucial second location.Referrals as a Growth Engine: Discover the number-one lead generation strategy that has fueled his business for over 16 years.Choosing a Profitable Location: What to look for in a site and how to approach business owners for mutually beneficial partnerships.Beyond the ATM Surcharge: An exploration of other services and revenue streams that can be added to an ATM network.Common Misconceptions: Yonas addresses the biggest myths about ATM profitability and passive income for new operators.Advice for New Operators: His direct, experience-based guidance for anyone looking to get started in the ATM business today.If you’re searching for:✔ How to Start an ATM Business✔ Scaling an ATM Route✔ ATM Business Partnerships✔ Long-Term ATM Contracts✔ Passive Income from ATMsThis episode delivers a masterclass in building a lasting ATM business from the ground up.Timestamps:00:00 - Video Start / Intro Graphic00:18 - Introduction to the Episode & Guest01:35 - Meet Yonas Markos: 18 Years in the ATM Industry02:22 - The Accidental Start: How the Business Began04:16 - The First Hustle & Landing Location #206:05 - The Gas Station Deal That Changed Everything08:32 - The #1 Growth Engine: Power of Referrals10:03 - Choosing a Profitable ATM Placement11:56 - Managing a Multi-State Operation (20+ States)14:50 - Beyond Surcharge: Alternative Revenue Streams16:59 - Debunking ATM Profitability Myths18:10 - Direct Advice for New ATM Operators20:30 - The Biggest Scaling Challenge: Banking & Cash25:45 - Yonas on Success, Legacy & Making a Difference31:26 - How to Connect with Yonas Markos & OutroConnect With Yonas Markos & Gold Star Financial:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yonas-marcosWebsite: https://www.gowithstar.com/🔔 Follow to ATM TALKS and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode with the leaders and innovators shaping the future of cash access.