HSBC has decided to extend its commitment to keep its branches operational until at least 2027. This decision follows the closure of over 700 branches in the past ten years. The bank has assured that none of its remaining 327 branches will be closed next year. Instead, it plans to invest nearly £56 million in enhancing its branch network. This move comes after criticism directed at HSBC and other banks for their mass closure programs, which have left many communities without convenient access to in-person banking services.

The closure of bank branches has had a significant impact on vulnerable groups such as the elderly and low-income households, as well as leading to the disappearance of free-to-use ATMs. While banks attribute the closures to the increasing preference for online banking, HSBC revealed that customer footfall in their branches has remained steady, with an average of 825,000 visits per month and over two million monthly transactions via self-service machines.

Statistics indicate that more than 6,000 bank branches have closed since 2015, with HSBC alone shuttering 743 branches during that period. To improve the customer experience, HSBC has pledged to invest £55.8 million in refurbishing and modernizing its existing branches on top of the £42 million spent in 2025. The funds will be used to revamp branches across the UK, with 100 branches already upgraded and plans for additional enhancements, including the establishment of Premier and Wealth Centres.

Additionally, HSBC has implemented various community banking touchpoints, including shared Banking Hubs, Cash Access UK devices, and “cash pods” to ensure continued accessibility for customers. Sally Williams, Head of the branch network at HSBC UK, emphasized the importance of maintaining physical branches for customers with complex needs who value face-to-face interactions during crucial moments.

Christopher Dean, Managing Director of Wealth, Premier, and Personal Banking at HSBC UK, reiterated the bank’s commitment to enhancing all banking channels to provide excellent service to customers. HSBC’s decision to keep all branches open for the foreseeable future aligns with its goal of expanding its presence in local communities through a network of community services and events.

This announcement by HSBC comes shortly after Nationwide building society declared that all its 696 Nationwide and Virgin Money branches will remain open until at least 2030.