Ammo vending machine CEO says one removed, but more coming to Alabama

The CEO of a company that makes AI-powered ammunition vending machines says the removal of one of two in the state was “strictly a business decision,” and more will be coming to Alabama grocery stores.

American Rounds’ “smart retail automated ammo dispensers” use artificial intelligence technology to verify a buyer’s ID and age using facial recognition software. Al.com reported July 3 the company had installed ammunition vending machines at Fresh Value locations at 4200 McFarland Blvd. in Tuscaloosa and 1009 Martin St. in Pell City.

Tuscaloosa City Councilor Kip Tyner raised questions about the machine during a Public Safety Committee meeting last week, according to a Tuscaloosa Thread report. Tyner posted on social media Friday, “The vendor decided to remove his machine from the grocery store.”

American Rounds CEO Grant Magers told Al.com on Saturday the decision was made due to sales volume at the McFarland Boulevard grocery store.

“We are still happy to be working with Fresh Value, Pell City, and we have plans to expand with Fresh Value to their other locations,” he said via email. “The city of Tuscaloosa has been very supportive, and we are thankful for that support.”

American Rounds has ammunition-dispensing machines at four locations in Oklahoma as well as in Pell City, according to its website.

“We strive to bring safe, secure, ammo sales to the market in support of responsible firearm ownership,” Magers said.