Standard Chartered pursues ten smart-branch plans

Standard Chartered Bank Group has opened the fourth in a series of 10-smart branch plan in Lagos, due by the end of June this year.

The latest, located in the Maryland Shopping Mall, will support the growing local businesses in the business district area of the state and the branches will complement the bank’s ongoing investment in digital infrastructure.

The Bank also plans to align with its focus on supporting the rapid expansion of key cities across its global footprint in Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

The lender, under its “Here for Africa” campaign, reiterated commitment to the continent and investment strategy, with Nigeria as key focus for expansion, particularly Lagos, being one of the eight fastest-growing cities in Africa.

Regional Head, Retail Banking, Africa and Middle East (AME), Jaydeep Gupta, said: “Africa continues to benefit from the Group’s decision to invest $3 billion over three years in digital channels and systems, enhancing our strategic focus, customer experience and security.

“We’re excited about the opportunities in Nigeria, and Africa as a whole.  We’re investing to bring the best in banking through our digital channels, as well as giving clients the choice of coming to a user-friendly branch when they want advice and a more personal touch.”

The Chief Executive Officer, Nigeria and West Africa, Bola Adesola, affirmed that the bank’s retail banking business in Nigeria has been growing from strength to strength.

“Thanks to the support from government and the Nigerian people; we will continue to invest in our capabilities to deliver increasingly efficient, cost effective and accessible banking for all our customers.”