NatWest Announces Even More Upcoming Branch Closures
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Popular UK bank NatWest recently announced a new batch of upcoming branch closures. According to its plans, NatWest intends to shut down 52 more branches by the end of 2025. Combined with the branch closures in the previous years, this will bring the total number of shutdowns to 105.
Commenting on the decision, NatWest said that the move reflects the shift to online banking. Currently, over 80% of account holders with the bank prefer to use its digital services rather than visiting physical branches. The majority of new accounts are also being opened online, rather than on location at one of the branches.
The bank also intends to further improve its online services by investing an additional £20 million in its UK network in 2026. The money will be used to upgrade the branches that will remain open, as well as provide support through Post Offices, banking hubs, and pop-up services in certain areas.
NatWest Is Working On Helping Those Who Need Assistance In Adjusting To The Changes
In its statement, NatWest noted that its goal is to meet its customers’ changing needs and expectations, a goal that is true for any business. To do this, it has been responding to the industry-wide shift toward digital services by investing in broadening what users can do themselves, without needing to visit a physical branch or talk to an employee.
The bank has also made additional efforts to enable greater personalization for users, allowing them to tailor their online banking experience themselves.
NatWest added that it recognizes that some people will need time and help to adapt to this shift, as digital banking is not everyone’s preferred method. It acknowledged that it has vulnerable customers who will, in particular, need assistance in adapting to the changes. To address this, NatWest has trained its customer support specialists to proactively contact branch users who may need additional support once their nearby branch closes.
It also stated that it will install community pop-ups where needed to help customers become more familiar with alternative banking services.
