ACFN: Transforming ATM Services with a Low-Overhead Franchise Model

ACFN, short for American Consumer Financial Network, operates as a franchise that delivers ATM solutions to businesses, with a strong focus on venues in the travel and entertainment industries.

Founded in 1996 and launching its franchising efforts in 2003, ACFN has built a solid footprint throughout the United States and Canada. Its corporate headquarters are based in San Jose, California.

What sets ACFN apart is its streamlined franchise opportunity. Entrepreneurs can build their own ATM network without the need for staff or traditional office space. The business is designed for flexibility—franchisees can run operations remotely, whether from home or on the go.

Training

The ACFN franchise provides several types of training programs for franchisees and their teams. Here's a breakdown of the training offered by the franchisor:

1. Initial Training Program
   ACFN provides initial training before the business begins operation. This consists of four video conference calls covering various operational topics. The training is designed for the Managing Owner and one additional individual, and is scheduled at a time specified by ACFN. Completion of this program to the franchisor's satisfaction is mandatory to start operating the franchise. If the Managing Owner fails to meet the required standards through evaluations, ACFN may terminate the agreement.
2. Detailed Subject-Based Training
   The initial training includes classroom-based instruction on four main subjects:
   • Administration (2 hours)
   • Operations – Initial Training (1.5 hours)
   • Marketing (2 hours)
   • Operations – Additional Training (3 hours)
     All training is delivered virtually and there is no on-the-job training involved.
3. Refresher Training
   The franchisor may require the Managing Owner or employees to attend refresher training courses periodically. These are scheduled by ACFN and may incur additional costs, such as travel and accommodation, which are the responsibility of the franchisee.

Territory Protection

ACFN does not provide exclusive territory protection to its franchisees. Franchisees receive a non-exclusive Area of Operation, and ACFN may operate or authorize others within the same area. However, ACFN will take reasonable steps to prevent other franchisees from soliciting or servicing accounts where a franchisee already operates ATMs.

This means that while some account-level protection is offered, franchisees are not shielded from competition within their assigned area. ACFN and its affiliates retain the right to compete in the same territory without offering compensation.