Santander to Close 44 Branches, Putting 291 Jobs at Risk
Santander is set to close 44 bank branches, putting 291 jobs at risk. This decision is part of a strategic overhaul aimed at adapting to the growing preference for online banking among customers.
Santander’s Shift to Digital Banking
The Spain-based bank reports that a staggering 96% of transactions are now conducted online. This latest move follows the closure of 95 branches less than a year ago, which affected 750 employees. The bank aims to enhance its service model by introducing “community bankers.” These individuals will work from Santander Local stores and banking hubs, ensuring a continued presence in local neighborhoods.
Improving Customer Support
A representative from Santander explained that changes to branch operations are a response to the significant shift towards digital banking. The bank will continue investing in both its physical locations and its digital services, enabling comprehensive support for customers regardless of their banking preferences.
Branch Network After Closures
After the closures are finalized, Santander will have a total of 305 branches left. The new structure will include:
- 244 full-service branches
- 19 counter-free branches
- 36 reduced-hour branches
- 6 Work Cafés
- 111 Santander Locals
Since 2019, there has been a remarkable 109% increase in transactions via the mobile banking app. Additionally, over 80% of current accounts are now opened digitally, reflecting the bank’s shift in focus.
Closure Schedule
The closure of branches will occur over several months. Key dates include:
April 2026 Closures
- Berwick Upon Tweed – April 28
- Boston – April 28
- Evesham – April 28
- Mold – April 28
- Woking – April 28
- Newbury – April 29
- Bangor – April 29
- Kirkintilloch – April 29
- Bridgwater – April 29
- Melton Mowbray – April 29
- Scunthorpe – April 29
- Tonbridge – April 29
May 2026 Closures
- Bishop Auckland – May 5
- Gosport – May 5
- Huntingdon – May 5
- Haverfordwest – May 5
- Pontefract – May 5
- Welwyn Garden City – May 5
- Glengormley – May 6
- Leyland – May 6
- Mansfield – May 6
- Merthyr Tydfil – May 6
- Northallerton – May 6
- Ringwood – May 6
- Macclesfield – May 12
- Andover – May 12
- Enniskillen – May 12
- Bridgend – May 12
- Stratford Upon Avon – May 12
- Cwmbran – May 13
- Golders Green – May 13
- Heswall – May 13
- Redditch – May 13
- Stranraer – May 13
- Banbridge – May 19
- Newton Abbot – May 19
- Stratford – May 19
- Liskeard – May 20
- Shirley – May 20
January 2027 Closures
- Leighton Buzzard – By the end of January
- Ormskirk – By the end of January
- Whitehaven – By the end of January
- Wilmslow – By the end of January
Santander’s decision to close 44 branches signifies a pivotal shift in its operational strategy, responding to the evolving landscape of banking services.
