Santander is set to update its UK branch network to better meet the evolving needs of its customers.
From June 2025, the bank will change the format of a number of branches to include 18 counter-fee and 36 reduced hours branches, alongside its 290 full-service branches and five Work Cafes.
Santander’s Work Café concept, which is rolled out globally, serves as a hub for local communities and businesses, offering free access to co-working spaces, WiFi and dedicated event areas for both customers and non-customers.
In addition to the bank’s Work Cafés, Santander has invested tens of millions of pounds in a branch refurbishment programme, upgrading 99 branches over the past two years, with another 50 set for completion in the coming year.
The refurbished branches feature a digital self-serve room, offering customers privacy as well as a dedicated space to consult with specific teams, and access to online banking.
A spokesperson for Santander UK said: “As customer behaviour changes, we are ensuring that our branches remain fit for the future. Our new combination of full-service branches, alongside Work Cafés, counter-free branches and reduced hours branches, aims to provide the right balance between digital banking and face-to-face money management and guidance,
“As a business, we must move with customers and balance our investment across all the places where we interact with customers, to deliver the very best for them now and in the future.”
While investing in branch upgrades, the bank will also close 95 branches. However, these areas will be supported by new Santander Community Bankers, who will provide face-to-face assistance, visit local communities weekly and attend local banking hubs.