Ministerial praise for Nationwide technology

Last week, the Secretary of State for Wales Alun Cairns paid a visit to the Nationwide Building Society branch in Barry to learn more about the company’s innovation.

He spent time touring the branch and experiencing first-hand the bank’s technology that helps customers manage their finances in an easy and quick way.

One of the services Mr Cairns saw in action at the branch was Nationwide Now, which is the society’s HD video link solution that connects over 250 financial consultants to customers.

The facility lets customers complete finance applications and attend appointments with members of staff at times that suit them, instead of waiting in a lengthy in-branch queue.

It’s currently available in 398 branches across the United Kingdom through 404 Nationwide Now-enabled stations, all of which have been tailored to the needs of customers.

Alun Cairns MP said: ‘‘At a time when many are worried about the negative impact of new technology on high street shops and banks, it is refreshing and heartening to see new technology in use to improve and secure local branches.

“Having previously worked in local bank branches, I can understand the huge advantage for customers of having the booking flexibility that Nationwide Now’s pooled advisors can bring in addition to the in-branch staff. I am proud that Barry is at the cutting edge of a project that could boost and secure high street services into the future.”

Leanne Lingham-Giraud, manager of Nationwide’s Barry branch, said: “We were honoured to welcome Alun to our branch in Barry on Friday. With ninety per cent of Barry branch’s flex account sales having been carried out by Nationwide Now this financial year, this was a great opportunity for us to showcase the services we’re able to offer.

“With Nationwide Now, customers can book appointments at very short notice with mortgage consultations and financial consultants, increasing the level of service available.”