Vernon branch investment a commitment to communities
Stockport-based mutual, the Vernon Building Society, has spent £150,000 on the refurbishment of the Hazel Grove branch, a move the chief executive Steve Fletcher has described as a firm commitment to personal banking and local communities at a time the big banks are closing branches.
Vernon’s branch refurb follows the recent news that NatWest will close 18 of its high street banks, signifying a long-term trend from high street banks to shut their physical branches in favour of digital banking.
Steve Fletcher, Chief Executive at the Vernon, said: “Vernon opened this branch in Hazel Grove 44 years ago, and we’re just as committed as we were back then to providing customer financial support around mortgages and savings.
“Managing one’s finances today can feel more complicated than ever with so much choice and conflicting information out there. We know our Members value walking into a branch to chat with a qualified person, rather than being put on hold in an overseas call centre. That’s why we’re investing in our branches this year and will continue to do so whilst so many other banks and building societies are closing them down.”
The fit out was carried out by local contractors, Monks Morton Design Interiors, Flexible Office and Sharp. Together they have updated and modernised the entire interior and added new digital screens in the window in order to create a better experience for Members and colleagues. The work took six weeks to complete.
The branch, situated on London Road, was first opened in 1979. Vernon’s investment to their busy Hazel Grove branch marks their long-standing commitment to providing face-to-face financial support for its Members. In March of this year the Vernon refurbished its Reddish branch, and it expects to commence the modernisation of the St Petersgate branch in Stockport centre by the end of this year.
The Vernon invited long-time Member Mr Winder to cut the ribbon to officially open the newly refurbished branch. He has had a personal account with Vernon since 1997 and a Clubs and Charities account since 2010 for his local allotment association.
