Shoppers in Northumberland have voiced anger after Morrisons confirmed a trial that will see customers charged to withdraw cash at some Morrisons Daily convenience stores.
The move has prompted complaints from residents in Stakeford, who have taken to social media to express frustration and call on local MPs to intervene.
The trial is due to begin at selected Morrisons Daily locations within days, affecting customers who have previously relied on free-to-use cash machines in store.
Some shoppers said they had already contacted their local representatives to raise concerns about the introduction of fees.
One customer wrote on Facebook: “It is free until the end of the month then they will charge. I have just rang them and they have confirmed it.
“This is very unfair and a precedent of free withdrawals has been set for many, many years.”
The same customer added: “Time to write to your MP. This is another tax on people and your money.”
Another resident posted anonymously: “Cash machine at Morrisons Daily now charges you to withdraw YOUR cash.”
Residents in Northumberland urge MPs to intervene
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Morrisons has indicated the affected ATMs are operated by an external provider, meaning the supermarket does not directly set the withdrawal fee.
The company said the trial is taking place at a small number of Daily stores and pointed to declining ATM usage as a factor behind the change.
According to the supermarket, the increased use of contactless and card payments has reduced the number of customers withdrawing cash, making free machines harder to sustain.
The machines will remain available at the selected locations, but customers will be required to pay a fee to access their money during the trial period.
The trial is taking place at a small number of Daily stores and pointed to declining ATM usage
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The development comes against a broader backdrop of declining free cash access across Britain.
Campaign group Payment Choice Alliance reports almost 19,000 free-to-use cash machines have disappeared from UK high streets since January 2018.
Industry data shows the average British adult withdrew £1,352 from ATMs in 2025, down from £1,424 the previous year, a 5 per cent decline.
Despite the reduction in withdrawals, campaigners have argued access to cash remains important for many communities, particularly those with limited banking facilities.
Alternative options remain available for customers seeking free cash services.
The Post Office operates 11,684 branches nationwide
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The Post Office operates 11,684 branches nationwide, where customers can withdraw and deposit money at the counter.
Banking hubs, which are shared premises used by different banks on a rotating basis, have also been introduced in some areas following branch closures.
In addition, new so-called super ATMs are being rolled out in locations most affected by bank branch shutdowns, allowing customers to withdraw cash, check balances, change PINs and deposit money.
The trial at Morrisons Daily stores is expected to continue in the coming weeks, with residents in Stakeford indicating they will monitor developments closely and pursue discussions with elected representatives.