From the end of June 2025: There will soon be no cash at these petrol stations

As of June 30, 2025, the option to withdraw cash for free at numerous gas stations will end, as reported by the Kölner Stadtanzeiger. This affects bank customers of Deutsche Bank, Postbank, Commerzbank, and Hypovereinsbank . Until the end of June, they were able to withdraw cash from their checking accounts at around 1,300 Shell gas stations across Germany – often around the clock, with no minimum spend, and even on Sundays and public holidays. This service was particularly appreciated by people in rural areas and outlying urban areas, where traditional ATMs have long since been removed or branches closed.

"The cooperation with Shell, through which Cash Group customers could previously withdraw up to 1,000 euros at participating gas stations, will expire in the middle of the year (on June 30, 2025)," a spokesperson for Deutsche Bank and Postbank confirmed to the Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger.

Some of the participating banks' websites still advertise the offer. Postbank, for example, continues to describe withdrawals at gas stations as a "convenient solution without having to search for a parking space." But that time is running out: According to information from the banking industry, the gas station chain itself plans to actively inform customers about the impending end of the cooperation at the end of May. Whether a similar collaboration with other financial institutions will take place is currently unclear.

The withdrawal comes against the backdrop of comprehensive structural change: The number of ATMs in Germany has been steadily declining for years – for economic reasons, due to security risks, and as a result of increasing online banking. The ability to withdraw cash directly at the pump was a simple and practical solution for many.

To replace the dwindling ATM and gas station infrastructure, the participating banks are increasingly relying on digital solutions. Postbank points to its "Bargeld Code" offering, introduced at the end of 2024. This allows customers to deposit or withdraw money at around 12,500 participating retailers—also up to €1,000 per day.

"Postbank customers have had an alternative available since November last year with the 'Bargeld Code,'" a spokesperson said. The service will be introduced for Deutsche Bank customers "shortly after this year."

The catch: Using the code requires a smartphone, an internet connection, and the corresponding app. Users must present the barcode at the checkout of a participating store within two hours of generation. This system can be a barrier, especially for older people or those who aren't tech-savvy.

Although banks emphasize that they have more than 17,000 free withdrawal options available through ATMs, retail stores, and digital offerings, the reality is that anyone who doesn't own a smartphone, doesn't use an app, or doesn't have a connection at the moment is left out.

The reduction in traditional banking services affects more than just the ATM network. Postbank plans to close around 230 of its 550 branches by 2026, 45 of them in North Rhine-Westphalia alone. Deutsche Bank announced plans to cut approximately 2,000 jobs over the course of the year and also close or convert numerous branches.