On Tuesday 30 May, Nedbank opened its 252nd new branch, in Main Road in Strand.
The site, reconstituted from the branch that was there before, was closed for a while as reconstruction was underway to occupy a smaller space, almost halving to its current size. A festive atmosphere reigned as staff at the branch, various representatives from Nedbank and Ward 83 councillor Carl Punt all gathered at the premises on the big day.
Yolande Kruger, Nedbank Strand’s branch manager, said the new branch integrated both the digital and the human in its service culture. “We offer simple services,” she said. “We are here to assist our clients digitally. It is digital when they need it and human when they want it.”
The now more compact branch not only looks modern but feels fresh, warm and welcoming.
Pedro Rhode, general manager of Nedbank in the Western and Northern Cape, who attended the opening, pointed out that banks now operate in the fifth industrial revolution. “The digital way forces us to do things differently,” he said. “It can harbour fear or opportunity. I want us to operate in opportunity.”
Rhode explained many clients came for new cards, which is now made easier with a locker system where they can just pick them up. “Our branch now feels like a Starbucks. Banking is changing. We can now sit next to our clients and help them with their business and needs.”
Rhode talked a bit about Strand as an area of high growth, one where people want to come to, to settle.
“Strand is not only a place people wish to retire to,” Punt pointed out, “but also one where the schools are bursting at the seams. It is a bustling community.
“After Covid-19 people buildings in the area were given facelifts, the sort of thing that attracts new people. I want to thank Nedbank for opening this branch in Strand.”
Susan Myburgh, team leader of services at Nedbank, not only celebrated her birthday on this special day, but also her last month of working at Nedbank Strand, as she was retiring. “We are a bunch of Strandlopertjies,” Kruger declared. “It is a bird that is extremely resilient. That is how I see everyone at this branch, including Susan, who has done so much for us and this branch over the years.”
Rhode said Nedbank’s mission is to make a difference in the lives of its clients. “We want to make a difference in our clients’ lives. If you help a client then you are living your purpose. That is what makes Nedbank unique and that is our culture. I am very proud of this branch. I wish you all the best.”
