The PIX system has revolutionized the way Brazilians make payments and has established a new dynamic in financial transactions. According to the Febraban Banking Technology Survey 2026, released in June of this year, 83% of banking operations in the country are already conducted through digital channels. These operations are primarily carried out via smartphones. Nevertheless, cash continues to play a fundamental role in the mechanics of physical commerce.
According to Saque e Pague, between 20% and 30% of sales in supermarkets, pharmacies, and gas stations are still paid in cash. In the outskirts, this dependence is vital. Indeed, data from Data Favela shows that these communities generate over R$ 300 billion annually. Therefore, physical cash remains an essential pillar for neighborhood retail, reflecting regional economic, social, and financial inclusion characteristics.
This scenario indicates that, more than just replacing one payment method with another, retail has had to learn to operate in balance. This balance exists between the digital environment and physical cash. Furthermore, while expanding the range of technological solutions, commerce also needs to maintain efficient cash management. This management reconciles security, cash availability, and convenience for different customer profiles.
"Today, consumers want the freedom to choose how they will pay. It is up to the retailer to be prepared to offer a seamless experience, whether through contactless payment, PIX, or cash," says Ronald Kellermann, commercial director of Saque e Pague.
This change in behavior also accompanies the reduction of the physical presence of traditional bank branches. This is happening in various Brazilian cities. Therefore, with fewer service points available, supermarkets, gas stations, and other establishments have begun to play an increasingly relevant role. They act as access points to basic financial services for the population.
"In this context, self-service terminals have ceased to fulfill only the functions of withdrawal and deposit to become an efficient tool for retail. In addition to facilitating cash management, technology reduces risks associated with storing cash and directly contributes to increasing consumer flow in the establishment," points out Kellermann.
The experience of Saque e Pague shows that many consumers who use electronic terminals end up making purchases. These purchases are made on-site. For example, in one of the gas station chains served by the company, three out of ten consumers who use the equipment end up making a purchase at the convenience store. Consequently, this expands sales opportunities and the average ticket of the point.
Additionally, another differentiator is the interoperability of the solution. The network's terminals allow withdrawals and deposits for different financial institutions, including digital banks. This offers more flexibility for consumers and entrepreneurs. For Carlos Vaini, commercial manager of Saque e Pague, the challenge for retail is not choosing between physical and digital. The challenge lies in intelligently managing the different forms of cash circulation.
"Technology needs to simplify the business routine. When the retailer can reduce operational costs, streamline cash management, and at the same time offer convenience to the customer, they gain efficiency and strengthen their own operation," highlights Vaini.
Currently, Saque e Pague has about 1,300 terminals installed in commercial establishments. The company expects to reach 1,600 devices by the end of the year, with expansion primarily concentrated in gas stations and supermarkets. In this sense, the evolution of ATMs accompanies the new moment of the Brazilian market. This is an ecosystem where digitalization is advancing rapidly, but cash remains essential for the economy.
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