15 new branches for Yorkshire Building Society

Yorkshire Building Society has announced a commitment to open 15 new branches in the next three years or so. Geographical locations are in the process of being identified but the decision is based on a desire to expand on the existing national network of 131 branches currently run by the Society.

Iain Cornish, Chief Executive commented, “We have completed a review of all of our sales channels and at the same time as planning a major internet development programme we have identified the need to add to our branch network. We opened our first new branch in a number of years at Stockton in the North East in March 2005. The branch has performed so well it has shown us that with the commitment of an enthusiastic team of staff, the right location, and, of course, the right products, a new branch can be extremely successful.”

“In financial services it is often the internet which grabs the headlines, but we know from our own experience, that there is still strong demand for face to face advice when it comes to the more complex financial decisions which people face throughout their lives. The services we offer through our branches cover the full range, from advice for those who are buying a home, to advice about saving, investment, insurance and inheritance tax planning. The moves we are planning will help us improve our service to new and existing members and grow our market share in areas where we are not currently represented.”

It is expected that around 100 new jobs will be created in the new branches. The new branches will be opened on a rolling basis with current plans being to open the first one by summer 2007. Work is already underway to identify suitable locations that meet the criteria of right location, right branch and right team.