Santander is set to close a fifth of its branches in the UK, putting 750 jobs at risk. The retail bank aims to improve its network by shutting down 95 high street outlets out of 444 and reducing the services or hours at an additional 50 branches. This decision, announced by the lender, is part of an effort to better serve the evolving needs of customers. Santander, which initially stated that it would not implement permanent closures this year, is also introducing counter-free branches and reducing operating hours at certain locations. The bank will provide face-to-face support for customers in areas where branches are closing through new “community bankers.” These bankers will offer weekly visits and support at local banking hubs. Santander attributes this decision to the increase in digital transactions, with a 63% rise since 2019 and a 61% decrease in branch-based financial transactions during the same period. The bank emphasizes that these changes are necessary to adapt to changing customer behavior and strike a balance between digital banking and in-person support.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2025/mar/19/santander-to-close-95-uk-branches-putting-750-jobs-at-risk