NatWest has announced a £50 million investment in its UK branch network, pledging to pause all branch closures until at least 2029. The move comes as many British banks continue to shut down physical branches, forcing customers towards digital alternatives.
The banking group, which operates NatWest, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Ulster Bank, said it will halt further closures across all three brands for at least three years. The investment aims to improve customer service and ensure staff are equipped to provide high-quality in-person support.
While 95% of NatWest customers now use digital banking for daily needs, the bank acknowledged that face-to-face support remains crucial. It will also explore opening new branches where there is clear customer demand.
Despite the pause, some branches are still scheduled to close this year across Scotland, England, and Wales. However, these will be the last closures announced until at least 2029.
To enhance in-person access, NatWest offers mobile branch services, including the UK's only flying banker, operates in 235 Community Banking Hubs, and has partnerships with 11,500 post offices. It also maintains nearly 5,000 free-to-use ATMs nationwide.
Solange Chamberlain, CEO of Retail Banking at NatWest Group, said: 'This is an important moment for our customers and the communities we serve. We are investing to offer customers a seamless mix of ways to bank with us, while continuing to support those who prefer face-to-face banking.'
