Santander UK has confirmed a significant shake-up of its branch network, placing around 750 jobs at risk as it prepares to shut down 95 more branches between June and August 2025. The decision reflects a growing shift in customer behavior toward digital banking and follows a broader industry trend of reducing in-person banking services.
The total number of full-service Santander branches will drop from 444 to 290, alongside five expanded “Work Cafés,” designed as modern co-working hubs. These closures and changes come with the promise of continued access to face-to-face banking through a mix of community support, digital upgrades, and third-party services.
Reasons Behind the Closures
The bank has cited two key factors influencing the closures:
- Decline in Branch Usage: In-branch transactions have decreased by 61% since 2019.
- Rise in Digital Banking: Online banking activity has surged 63% in the same period.
With more customers opting to manage their finances through apps and websites, Santander is adapting by investing heavily in digital channels and reducing the physical footprint of its branch network.
Changes to Branch Operations
In addition to the closures, Santander is implementing several other operational changes:
- 36 branches will reduce their operating hours starting June 30, 2025.
- 18 branches will convert into counter-free banking hubs, focusing on digital self-service tools.
- Investment in infrastructure: 99 branches have already been refurbished over the past two years, with 50 more set for upgrades in 2025.
These revamped branches will include private self-service rooms and improved layouts to accommodate modern banking needs.
Reduced Branch Hours Schedule (Starting June 30, 2025)
| Branch | Days Open | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Alton | Tue & Thu, Sat | 9:30am – 3pm (Sat till 12:30pm) |
| Banbury | Mon, Wed & Fri | 9:30am – 3pm |
| Bury St Edmunds | Mon, Wed & Fri | 9:30am – 3pm |
| Kendal | Mon, Wed & Fri | 9:30am – 3pm |
| Lowestoft | Tue & Thu, Sat | 9:30am – 3pm (Sat till 12:30pm) |
Full list includes 36 branches with similar alternating schedules.
Timeline of Branch Closures
June 2025
- June 14 – Colne
- June 16 – Clacton, Croydon, Gateshead Metro, Launceston, Peterhead
- June 30 – Fleet, Musselburgh, Portadown, Swadlincote
July 2025
- July 1 – Armagh, Borehamwood, Market Harborough
- July 7 – Caernarfon, Camborne, Cumbernauld, Ruislip, Tenterden
- July 14 – Bognor Regis, Holloway, Honiton, Plympton
August 2025
- August 5 – Blyth, Canvey Island, Rustington
- August 11 – Edgware Road
- August 14 – Plympton
A total of 95 branches will shut their doors by the end of August 2025.
What Alternatives Will Be Available?
Despite these closures, Santander assures customers that banking support will remain accessible:
- Community Bankers: Assigned to visit community venues on scheduled days.
- Post Office Services: Continue to offer cash withdrawals, deposits, cheque services, and balance checks.
- Banking Hubs: Shared spaces in high streets for basic banking functions.
- Digital Access: Upgrades to mobile apps, chat systems, and telephone banking.
Expansion of Work Cafés
Santander is ramping up its Work Café initiative. Two new cafés have recently opened, with another expected to launch soon. These locations provide customers and the public with:
- Superfast WiFi
- Event hosting capabilities
- Free workspace access
This concept aligns with Santander’s commitment to supporting local businesses and fostering community hubs in urban centers.
Outreach to Vulnerable Customers
To ease the transition, Santander will directly contact customers flagged as potentially vulnerable. Personalized phone outreach will inform them of local changes and available support channels.
Santander’s Statement on the Restructuring
A Santander UK spokesperson emphasized the goal of building a future-ready bank:
“We’re evolving to meet customer needs. Our balanced model of digital services, Work Cafés, and selected in-person support ensures we remain connected to the communities we serve.”
Conclusion
Santander’s 2025 restructuring plan is part of a broader transformation in the banking sector, emphasizing a hybrid model that blends digital innovation with localized face-to-face services. While branch closures pose challenges, especially for vulnerable customers, the bank aims to maintain accessibility and community presence through alternative solutions and technology investments.
FAQs
What are the main reasons for Santander closing branches in 2025?
The closures are largely due to a sustained drop in in-branch transactions and a surge in digital banking. Customers increasingly prefer managing finances online, prompting the bank to streamline its branch operations.
Will Santander still offer face-to-face support?
Yes. Santander plans to continue offering personal support through reduced-hour branches, Work Cafés, community banking visits, and services via local Post Offices and banking hubs.
How will I know if my local branch is closing?
Customers will be informed directly. Santander is reaching out to affected individuals via phone and written communication. Closure details are also available on the official Santander UK website.
Can I still deposit cheques or withdraw cash if my branch closes?
Absolutely. Customers can visit any nearby Post Office for essential services, including cheque deposits, balance checks, and cash transactions.
What is a Work Café?
A Work Café is a multifunctional space by Santander that offers free co-working areas, meeting rooms, high-speed internet, and access to banking advisors in a casual, modern setting.
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