According to Santander, these ten branches (scattered across England and Wales) will shutter by late 2026. The reason? More than 70% of their transactions are now done online or via the app. And honestly, can you blame them?
I mean, when was the last time you actually walked into a bank to do a thing? If you’re like me, it was probably to argue about a random £12 overdraft fee. Digital is winning because it’s convenient, fast, and doesn’t require parking.
But here’s the ironic twist: Santander is simultaneously investing £20 million into improving their app and online tools. So, while they’re pulling the plug on bricks and mortar, they’re feeding the beast of digital banking.
What About the “Non-Digital” Folks?
Now, let’s get real for a second—because you probably already thought of this. What about your gran? Or that neighbor who still pays his rent with a paper cheque? Santander says they’ll “support” affected customers with community pop-ups and a partnership with the Post Office.
But let’s be honest: a pop-up in a church hall isn’t the same as a warm, familiar branch with a cashier who knows your name. Digital is great for speed, but not so great for the lonely feeling of a 404 error page.
Santander to close 10 UK branches this week - full list | UK | News
And here’s the kicker: while Santander closes ten branches, they’re actually opening 24 new “digital hubs” in other locations. Wait—what? So they’re closing ten, but opening 24? Make it make sense.
Ah, but those “digital hubs” are basically self-service kiosks with a video screen. So, you get a robot face instead of a human one. Progress, baby!
