DALLAS — 7-Eleven Inc. said last week that it plans to equip 1,000 of its U.S. stores with its Web-enabled and multitask Vcom kiosks under a three-year, multimillion-dollar contract with NCR Corp.
The NCR Personas 78s machines normally cost $40,000 to $50,000 apiece, but 7-Eleven will get bulk-order discounts. The deal will include software and maintenance.
NCR, of Dayton, Ohio, has been building Vcoms for 7-Eleven for several years, testing them in 98 of the chain’s stores in Texas and Florida. The device is a souped-up ATM that can conduct money orders, money transfers, and check cashing.
This is the first phase of 7-Eleven’s national Vcom launch. It projects that 3,500 more stores will have the machines by the end of 2003. The rollout is planned to begin sometime in September.
In addition, 7-Eleven has signed agreements with companies to offer prepaid phone cards, electronic ticket purchasing, on-screen advertising, weather reports, lottery results, and travel directions through the kiosks.
Jim Keyes, 7-Eleven’s president and chief executive, said in a release: “These and other Vcom services we plan to add to allow us to expand our relationship with current customers and attract new ones who want the 24/7 service that Vcom can provide. Those who do not have traditional banking relationships or access to e-shopping will find a new level of convenience at their local 7-Eleven."
