Santander to Close 40 UK Branches in 2026 – Complete List
In a significant move, Santander will close 40 branches across the UK in 2026. This decision stems from the bank’s ongoing reduction of its physical presence as more customers opt for online banking.
Santander’s Shift Towards Digital Banking
In January, Santander announced it would shut down a total of 44 UK branches, including four closures that occurred that same month. The bank noted that over 96% of transactions are now processed through digital platforms, emphasizing a shift toward virtual banking services.
Impact on Employment
The planned closures will affect approximately 291 jobs, highlighting the impact of changing customer behaviors on employment within the banking sector. This announcement follows a previous reduction in 2022, which involved the closure of 95 branches and the loss of around 750 jobs.
Continuing Restructuring Efforts
In July 2025, then UK Chief Executive Mike Regnier indicated significant job losses, reporting that about 2,000 positions had been cut as part of a restructuring initiative. He also hinted at the possibility of further layoffs in the near future.
Community Banking Solutions
To mitigate the impact of branch closures, Santander plans to introduce “community bankers” at Santander Local stores and shared banking hubs. This initiative aims to ensure that customers continue to receive essential banking services despite the reduced number of physical locations.
Upcoming Branch Closures
The next phase of branch closures is expected to take place soon. Below is a list of the affected locations:
- Branch Location 1
- Branch Location 2
- Branch Location 3
- Branch Location 4
- Branch Location 5
As Santander continues to adapt to the digital age, these strategic decisions reflect broader trends in the banking industry, emphasizing efficiency and customer preferences.
