The British Independent Retailers Association (Bira), has expressed concern over the announcement that dozens of high street banks will be shutting down this month, emphasising the vital service these branches provide to the high street.
A total of 44 bank branches are scheduled to close in August, including 22 NatWest, eight Halifax, five Lloyds, four Bank of Scotland, and five Barclays locations.
Several towns will be left without any nearby branches, raising alarm about access to essential banking services.
Bira CEO Andrew Goodacre
"We are saddened by this wave of closures. Banks play a crucial role in supporting local businesses and maintaining the vibrancy of our high streets," said Andrew Goodacre, CEO of Bira.
“Their presence is essential for both retailers and consumers who rely on cash transactions and face-to-face banking services."
The British Independent Retailers Association, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, is highlighting the critical importance of maintaining banking services in local communities.
Bira emphasises that these closures disproportionately impact small businesses and vulnerable consumers who depend on access to cash and in-person banking.
Mr Goodacre added they were actively campaigning for the preservation of bank branches or, at minimum, the establishment of banking hubs in every town and city.
“We call on the new government and banking sector to take immediate action to ensure the long-term viability of cash access and in-person banking services across the UK," he said.
For more information on Bira's mission supporting Britain's independent retailers, visit www.bira.co.uk.
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