Metro Bank, the UK’s community bank, has opened its 76th store in Cardiff on Newport Road, bringing Wales its first drive-thru banking experience.
Metro Bank offers customers the choice to bank however, whenever and wherever they choose – whether that’s face-to-face banking in store, on the phone, online or via its mobile app.
According to analysis from Which?, Wales has seen more than 230 bank closures since 2015 but Metro Bank is proud to be bucking this trend as it opens its second store in Cardiff.
The new store will be opening in line with the latest Government guidance with the bank implementing strict social distancing measures to protect its customers and colleagues.
The Newport Road store will offer a drive-thru service, allowing customers to carry out cashier services from the comfort of their cars and completely contact-free. This will be Metro Bank’s fifth drive-thru store in the UK.
The bank’s opening hours have been temporarily adjusted following the coronavirus outbreak, with stores open Monday to Saturday 10am – 4pm. The bank usually operates seven days a weeks, early until late and is hoping to return to this soon. The store is located at 507 Newport Road, Cardiff, CF23 9AD.
Ian Walters, Managing Director, Distribution at Metro Bank said: “We’re delighted to be opening our second store in Wales and supporting the local community with their banking needs and beyond. We’re sorry the store has opened a little later than first planned, but we’re pleased to be opening the doors safely and providing contact-free banking with our new drive-thru service in Cardiff.”
The first of Metro Bank’s Welsh stores opened in January, and saw the bank commit to providing services in the Welsh language by developing its own Welsh Language Charter including store signage in both Welsh and English. Metro Bank continues to provide the opportunity for all colleagues to learn the language, and as they develop their skills. Welsh speaking customers will be able to easily identify fluent Welsh speakers and learners in store as they will be wearing the Iaith Gwaith logo. John Lloyd-Jones, the store’s Local Director, is a fluent Welsh speaker.
Paul Slevin, President of South Wales Chamber of Commerce, said:
“Metro Bank’s expansion into Wales is good for Welsh businesses, and we want to congratulate the bank as they open a second branch in Cardiff.
“It is especially good to see its’ ability in adapting to the current crisis by implementing strict social distancing policies which help to protect staff and customers, as well as its innovation in including a drive-thru service which will enable contact-free banking, while providing a key, accessible service.”
The store will have around 3,000 safe deposit boxes available, which are already open for reservations, and local companies will benefit from a Local Business Manager ready to help them run and grow their businesses.
