NatWest Bank Branch Closures Signal a Shift to Digital Banking
Today, we’re talking about something that’s becoming a growing trend across the UK—bank branch closures. NatWest has recently announced its plans to close five branches in East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, adding to the wave of high street closures. These closures are part of a broader shift towards digital banking as more and more customers opt for online services over in-person visits. The affected branches include Bridlington, Beverley, Goole, Louth, and Willerby, with closures scheduled between April and June of this year.
According to NatWest, this move is driven by changing customer habits. Over 80% of its active current account holders now use digital banking, and 97% of retail accounts are opened online. With such overwhelming adoption of digital services, the bank says it’s focusing on meeting customer needs through enhanced digital offerings while also refreshing its network to improve customer experience in remaining branches. In fact, NatWest plans to invest over £20 million in its branch network in 2025 to modernize facilities, make them more eco-friendly, and continue to support shared solutions like Post Offices and Banking Hubs.
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However, these closures don’t come without concerns. Many people, especially the elderly and vulnerable, rely on local branches for their banking needs. NatWest has acknowledged this and assured that support will be provided to help customers transition to digital banking. In 2024 alone, the bank made over 200,000 proactive calls to assist customers and provided access to experts who offer guidance and solutions.
While the trend towards digital banking is undeniable, the loss of local branches is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a shift that affects communities, high streets, and access to financial services. NatWest is among many banks making this move, with over 50 branch closures planned for 2025. It’s a clear sign of the times, where convenience and technology reshape how we interact with financial institutions.
What do you think about this trend? Is digital banking the future, or do we risk leaving some people behind?
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