The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS), now part of the Natwest Group, has announced the closure of 18 branches in Scotland, representing one-fifth of its total branches in the country. This decision puts over 100 jobs at risk and reduces the number of branches from 86 to 68. The bank cited declining customer usage as the primary reason for these closures, with more than 80% of active current account holders using digital services. In response to this trend, RBS plans to prioritize digital banking services going forward by investing £10.5 million in its network across Scotland.
The closures are part of a network refresh strategy aimed at adapting to changing customer behavior towards digital banking. Over 97% of retail accounts are now opened online, indicating a clear shift in consumer preferences. Despite the closures, RBS is committed to investing in shared solutions such as the Post Office and banking hubs to ensure continued access to banking services for customers. The affected branches are spread across various locations in Scotland, with three in Edinburgh, three in Glasgow, and others in Bathgate, East Kilbride, Helensburgh, Largs, Aberdeen, New Deer, and Helensburgh. However, RBS plans to consolidate two branches in Inverness into a new flagship location and has stated that there will be no further closures before 2026.
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RBS emphasized the importance of its branch network despite increasing digital engagement, stating that customers value speaking to experienced staff for complex financial decisions. The bank’s ongoing investment in its network and shared solutions aims to strike a balance between digital and in-person banking services. Customers appreciate the convenience of digital banking for everyday transactions, but there is still a demand for personalized assistance for more significant financial matters. The closures are part of a broader strategy to adapt to changing consumer habits and ensure long-term sustainability in the banking sector.
Going forward, RBS intends to focus on enhancing its digital banking offerings while maintaining a physical presence through strategic branch locations and shared solutions. By investing in technology and network improvements, the bank aims to provide a seamless banking experience for customers across Scotland. The closures of 18 branches will be accompanied by a commitment to no further closures until 2026, allowing RBS to consolidate its operations and adapt to the evolving financial landscape. Customers can continue to access banking services through digital channels, shared solutions, and remaining branch locations, ensuring continued support and convenience.
