Overview
- Analysis points to 70 bank branches closing across the UK between September and November, including 21 in September, 24 in October and 25 in November.
- NatWest is shutting 26 branches this month with another 20 due in October, citing most customers now banking online, as the FCA stresses continued access to cash via Post Offices and banking hubs.
- Halifax has 18 branch closures scheduled in September, adding to a multi‑year contraction that has seen more than 6,000 UK branches shut since 2015.
- Poundland’s High Court‑approved rescue is proceeding with further closures, including six more sites on September 28, part of a plan to close 68 stores, halt online sales and end its Perks scheme from September 16.
- Industry research warns of a severe retail contraction in 2025 with about 17,349 shop closures and roughly 202,000 job losses, as initiatives like LINK ATMs, shared hubs and temporary community services aim to preserve basic banking access.