Bank branch to be closed for revamp
Self-service machines will be the primary method for customers’ cash and cheque transactions
HSBC
DIGITAL SERVICE FORMAT COMING FROM JULY HAS NO COUNTERS
A BANK is to close temporarily so it can be turned into a digital service branch.
HSBC said “significant changes” will be made at the Market Place, Loughborough, branch.
When it reopens the bank will have no counters. Self-service machines will have been installed for cash and cheque transactions.
The firm said in January it would be establishing four new branch formats “in response to changing customer behaviours”.
The closure is due to take place on Monday, July 5. As of yet, there is no date confirmed for its reopening.
Customers are being contacted to inform them their bank will become a digital service branch, an HSBC spokesman said.
The spokesperson said: “This new format is counterless, which means our self-service machines will be the primary method for customers to complete cash and cheque transactions.
“Where we are creating a digital service branch the biggest change customers will see will be the removal of a counter.
“Virtually all other services the branch previously offered will be maintained. It might just be done in a different way. For example, cash and cheque transactions will be done using self-service technology. “This is an evolution in our branches. Significant changes will be made and there will need to be a certain evolution in how our customers bank.”
He said cashiers will still be on hand in the branch, to help customers use the new machines and to assist with digital services. “Vulnerable customers, who might not be comfortable using technology to handle their finances, have been identified and will be sent a tailored letter with local contact details”, the spokesman said.
“Digital service branches will also have a presentation space, an area set aside for customer seminars, which could include talks on how to avoid becoming the victim of fraud.”