The Shape Of Things To Come – Artist’s Impression Reveals Exciting Branch Plans

Press release published on 20 April 2006 by Scarborough Building Society

Refurbishment work is now well under way on Scarborough Building Society’s state-of-the-art new Town Centre branch.

Supporting Scarborough’s regeneration by transforming the vacant former Burger King premises in Westborough into a vibrant financial services environment, the new outlet will open its doors on Tuesday, 30 May.

It replaces the Society’s existing York Place branch, which will close for business on Saturday, 27 May.

Scarborough residents are invited to join Society staff in celebrating the exciting development at a day-long Grand Opening Event on Saturday, 3 June, featuring exclusive, limited edition mortgage and savings offers, giveaways, a prize draw and children’s entertainments.

The new shop-style design is moving away from the traditional counter-based branch image, with seating areas and refreshments to enable customers to browse through their financial options in comfort.

Colourful, informative product ‘worlds’ will show them, at a glance, the competitive products on offer at the Scarborough, whether they are looking for a mortgage, a safe haven for their rainy day savings, or insurance.

Leaving the counter behind, most of the branch staff will be ‘out and about’ – talking informally to customers and helping them to find solutions to all of their financial needs. Even Branch Manager Phil Chinnery does not have an office, but instead will be out on the floor and at customers’ service.

The customer service team will be equipped with the latest mobile technology – including laptops and mobile phones – to enable them to meet customers’ needs, and get them the information they need, as quickly and efficiently as possible. Customers can either book an appointment, or simply turn up on the day and speak to an advisor.

Plasma TVs around the branch will display Society news, including the latest product information.

Customers will have the choice whether they want to speak to an advisor in a traditional, formal office setting, or in more relaxed and open environment, over a coffee.

As a mutual Society, the Scarborough is also committed to its members and its communities. In the branch’s member and community ‘zone’, customers will be able to pick up copies of Connect magazine, find out about the Society’s activities in the community, ask the questions to which they want answers and even submit ideas for good causes they would like us to support as part of the Society’s Corporate Social Responsibility commitment.

And the new Scarborough branch will be the only building society opening until 3pm on Saturdays.

Head of Sales Jan Barber said: ‘As one of Scarborough’s biggest employers, and one of its longest-established businesses, we have long felt the need to have a major presence in the town’s retail heart.

‘We were delighted when the premises in Westborough became available, making this possible.

‘Not only will this site give us a chance to contribute to the town’s ongoing renaissance by transforming the empty former Burger King outlet into a stylish financial services environment Scarborough can be proud of – but the site is perfect in size and scope, enabling us to offer our customers the kind of top class financial service experience we believe they deserve.’

Branch Manager Phil Chinnery said: ‘We are all very excited about the new branch, which we believe will offer our existing – and hopefully new – customers a much more relaxed financial services experience.

‘My branch staff are friendly, approachable and fully committed to helping every customer find the right solution to their individual needs. So we would invite them to come and see us on opening day and beyond, to help us make a difference for them.’

Julie Barker, from the new branch’s Customer Service Team, is excited to have the opportunity to offer what she believes is the next generation of financial customer service which the new branch offers.

She will be situated at the front of the branch, speaking to customers and helping them to source the information they need.

‘I get real satisfaction from helping someone find the ideal financial solution for their needs – which is often something they would not have thought about on their own,’ she said.

‘I will be responsible for meeting and greeting people visiting the new branch, talking to them about their financial situation and then recommending the best plan of action to improve their position, using all of the resources the new outlet will have to offer.’

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