And the expense of operating them is far less than the expense of paying a teller. It would actually make more sense to impose a fee for doing a banking transaction with a teller. It is interesting that the bankers' statement includes an admission that people avoid ATM fees in droves when they have the choice. But given the spread of ATM surcharges like mushrooms in springtime, the logical conclusion would be no choice, or very little. They talk about convenience.
ATMs are convenient for people.
But they are also a convenient way for banks to rake in a lot of extra loot from working people who are having a tough enough time these days. A few months ago a lady I know got stopped by a policeman who suggested she was not wearing her seat belt correctly. Then he asked for her proof of insurance. She rooted around in the glove compartment, but didn't find it. Well, she had neglected to put it in there.