In a significant move for UK banking customers, Nationwide Building Society has announced it will maintain its extensive branch network across the country until at least the beginning of 2030. This extension of their flagship Branch Promise provides much-needed stability for communities reliant on face-to-face banking services.
What the Branch Promise Means for Customers
The financial institution has reinforced its commitment to physical banking locations despite industry trends toward digitalisation. Dame Debbie Crosbie DBE, Group Chief Executive at Nationwide, emphasised the importance of this decision: "Our customers can be confident that they can bank with us whichever way they choose. Branches are important to our customers, to communities, and to the health of our High Streets."
This commitment represents at least a two-year extension to their previous promise and applies comprehensively across their network, including recently acquired Virgin Money branches. The building society acknowledges that certain circumstances beyond their control might necessitate closures, but assures customers this would only occur as an absolute last resort.
Innovative Branch Design and Community Focus
Nationwide isn't just maintaining existing branches but transforming them to better serve modern customer needs. Their newly designed open plan branches feature four dedicated zones focused on convenience, consultation, conversation, and community engagement.
This approach recognises that while digital banking continues to grow, many customers still value personal interaction for complex financial decisions. With more branches than any other banking brand in the UK, Nationwide's commitment represents a substantial investment in maintaining physical banking presence nationwide.
Complete List of Protected Branches
The Branch Promise, first introduced in 2019 and extended last year following the Virgin Money acquisition in October 2024, now safeguards hundreds of locations. From major cities to smaller towns, customers across the UK can continue accessing in-person banking services.
The comprehensive list includes branches in:
Aberdeen, Birmingham, Belfast, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Newcastle, Sheffield and hundreds more locations across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
This decision comes as many other financial institutions continue to reduce their physical presence, making Nationwide's commitment particularly significant for customers who prefer or require branch banking services.
