A LEICESTER bank is among those to close later this year, as more customers make the move to mobile banking.
The Leicester branch of the Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) is one of 11 branches to close across the country as a result of a shift in the way customers use the service.
It is expected that the branch, which sits in Market Street, will close on June 9.
“The way people bank with us has changed dramatically in recent years, with an increased demand for mobile and online services as customers benefit from a faster and easier way to bank,” said an RBS spokesman announcing the closure.
“Closing a branch is a decision we take very seriously. We know it can affect people who are less confident with the alternatives we offer, and we’ll always work hard to guide you through the changes and find the best way to serve you from now on,” they added.
Explaining their reasons for closing the Leicester branch, they revealed that between 2017 and 2019, counter transactions for personal customers had decreased by 50 per cent.
The branch was used by only two personal customers on a regular basis in 2019 alongside 64 business customers.
In 2019, RBS also noted that 50 per cent of personal customers using the branch also chose to use Digital Banking or the bank’s mobile app.
Despite these findings however, there are concerns that less technologically savvy customers may struggle to manage their bank accounts.
“We completely understand that Digital Banking isn’t right for everyone. Sometimes you want to
chat things through with someone. We promise that you’ll still be able to talk to one of our team
either on the phone, by video or in one of our other branches,” said a RBS spokesman.
“We’ve put together this leaflet to guide you through the changes, but if you’ve got any questions at all just ask one of our team.”
To find out more, visit: rbs.co.uk/digitalbanking
