Banking group taps into co-working trend with new branch
Clydesdale and Yorkshire Bank’s digital banking service, branded as B, will next week open B Works in Manchester’s Market Street as it seeks to modernise the way customers use bank branches.
Set over three storeys in the 48-50 Market Street building once occupied by fashion store Mango, B Works is described as a retail and SME lending space, aiming to reintroduce a physical relationship with banks among consumers and business owners who have largely migrated online.
On offer will be co-working space, including bookable meeting rooms, hotdesks and longer-term desks, a learning programme including training in social media, various business events and exercise classes. The space will be staffed by employees from a range of backgrounds.
Helen Page, B’s group innovation and marketing director, said: “We believe that the nature of high street banking is changing. With B stores already in London and Birmingham, we’re delighted B Works is now opening in the North West of the country, as we spread our footprint nationwide.
“The reality is that more customers are choosing to bank digitally. We need to continually reimagine what we offer to customers digitally and physically to ensure we remain relevant and revolutionising our in-store experience is a big step in achieving this.”
The business said that once in-store, individuals will have access to the B Works partner programme. Online fashion brand Boohoo will have both a digital and physical presence in-store and will be holding a number of events, while the Growth Company, Freeformers, Pro.Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University are also involved.
Page concluded: “With B Works we’re confident that by creating an informal space that encourages innovation, co-creation and supports growth for both consumers and SMEs, we’ll transform the way our customers interact with us.”
The doors are due to open on Monday 14 January.
