The basics:

• TD Bank to debut Automated Treat Machines for dogs in NJ
• Cranford, Elmwood Park branches to host launch events in October
• Machines dispense treats when dogs step on motion-sensing mats
• Initiative expands TD’s community engagement and brand experience

After TD Bank debuted Automated Treat Machines (ATMs) for customers’ dogs last year in Philadelphia, the Mount Laurel-based banking giant is set to unveil the free offering at two of its branches in New Jersey.

Scheduled to launch Oct. 11 in Cranford (465 South Ave. E.) and Oct. 18 in Elmwood Park (600 Market St.), the machines feature “dog-centric content” on its screens and a pawprint mat with a motion detector that dispenses free treats as a pup approaches.

According to TD, most of its locations have had treats on hand to share with four-legged visitors for years. As part of an ongoing effort to connect with customers on a day-to-day basis, TD dreamed up the first-of-its-kind dog ATM as a way to “inject a bit of fun and excitement” into the brand and community, according to Michael Snyder, TD’s head of U.S. regional, retail distribution & experiential marketing.

“We were challenged with creating distinct, uniquely TD experiences in our stores, true manifestations of the brand,” he said. “Basically, how do we bring unexpectedly human to life in unexpected ways?”

When the bank introduced the amenity at its South Broad Street branch in Philadelphia in April 2024, Snyder described it as “a big moment of differentiation for us.”

Sit, stay, withdraw

To mark the openings, both branches will host kick-off celebrations filled with prizes, giveaways and treats – for humans and canines. Cranford’s Oct. 11 festivities will include an on-site caricaturist who will sketch portraits of attendees and their furry friends, while Elmwood Park’s Oct. 18 program includes an adoption event with Good Karma Dog Rescue as well as a doggie food truck. Both events will run from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., according to TD.

Besides New Jersey, TD will add the feature at six other banks this month across Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, Virginia and Florida. Another six dog ATMs will come online next year, the bank said.

Rob Curley, TD regional president for metro Pennsylvania and New Jersey, said, “We pride ourselves on providing legendary experiences for our customers – now we can include pets as well.”

Synder added, “We want to make our stores feel unmistakably TD – and our Automated Treat Machines connect us with our customers and bring the community closer to the store in a unique and memorable way.”

One of the 10 largest banks in North America, TD operates more than 1,100 retail stores in 15 states as well as the nation’s capital. It serves more than 10 million customers.

In a bid to streamline operations and adapt to changing customer banking habits, TD has shut dozen dozens of locations across the U.S. in recent years. The bank has said shrinking its footprint will enable it to reinvest in stores, expand ATM networks, and make further improvements to digital and mobile platforms.