Deutsche Post relies on vending machines: Six new locations in Hesse!

Deutsche Post relies on vending machines: Six new locations in Hesse!

Deutsche Post has big plans: Instead of traditional branches, it is increasingly relying on automated stations to meet customer needs. By the end of September 2025, 629 ATMs had already been applied for nationwide to be considered full-fledged branches, reported East Hesse News. Six of these machines have been approved in Hesse, including in cities such as Aßlar, Geisenheim and Weiterstadt. Such machines offer service around the clock, be it for posting parcels, buying stamps or dropping off letters. Video consultation is even possible, which makes contact with a postal employee easier.

This development is a direct response to structural change in rural areas. Due to the closure of village shops, many communities are struggling to provide adequate postal services. The post office is legally obliged to operate a branch in communities with more than 2,000 residents. There are currently seven mandatory branches missing in Hesse, including in Cölbe and Melsungen. In total, there are around 160 unoccupied locations nationwide, which only increases the problems in rural areas.

The details of the new machines

The introduction of the machines is causing excitement because they promise more flexibility and easier access to postal services. Customers can use the machines not only during the day but also at night, which is extremely practical. So far, six new parcel stations have been installed in Hesse, and the recognition of the machines as fully-fledged branches by the Federal Network Agency shows that Deutsche Post is definitely moving with the times. Through automation, she hopes to be able to replace the currently approximately 1,200 interim branches with limited opening hours.

What does it look like across Germany? If all applications are approved, five percent of post offices in Germany could be replaced by machines in the future. The adjustments pave the way to meet the needs of customers even in times of technological change. However, it remains to be seen that in regions where post office counters are currently unmanned, alternative solutions often have to be found.

It is clear that change is here, and Deutsche Post is doing good business with the introduction of such automated stations. This is also a response to the ongoing obligation to ensure access to postal services in the future. The future of Deutsche Post could soon look very automated and that could be an important development not only for rural areas.

But how is this change perceived by customers? Many people are happy about the easy accessibility, while others may miss the personal contact. An exciting balancing act for Deutsche Post, which is taking on the challenge in the spirit of progress. Further information about the more automated branches can be found at daily news. In the meantime, it remains to be seen how the vending trend will evolve and whether it will be the solution to the unoccupied locations across the country.