Santander Closes 44 UK Branches in April and May 2026 Due to Digital Shift

Santander is set to close 44 of its bank branches across the United Kingdom in 2026. This move is part of a larger strategy to adapt to changing customer habits, with an increasing number of transactions occurring through digital channels. The closures will affect 291 jobs, though the bank states there will be opportunities for redeployment. This decision reflects a broader trend in the banking industry towards reducing physical footprints and enhancing digital services.

Branch Network Adjustments and Rationale

The bank has outlined that approximately 96% of all transactions are now conducted online or via mobile apps. This significant shift in customer behavior is the primary driver behind the decision to close these branches. Santander plans to continue investing in its remaining branch network, which will consist of various formats including:

• Full-service branches

• Counter-free branches

• Reduced-hour branches

• Santander Locals

• Work Cafés

After the closures, Santander's network will comprise 305 branches. Additionally, customers will have access to basic banking services at over 11,000 Post Office branches and through more than 200 Banking Hubs across the country. This strategy aims to ensure customers can access services through their preferred methods, whether in-person or digitally.

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Full List of Branches Slated for Closure and Dates

The 44 branches identified for closure are spread across the UK, with closure dates generally falling between April and May 2026.

Note: Three additional branches were mentioned in one source (Metro.co.uk) as potentially closing without specific dates: Leighton Buzzard (Bedfordshire), Ormskirk (Lancashire), Whitehaven (Cumbria), and Wilmslow (Cheshire). However, these were not included in the definitive list of 44 branches provided by multiple sources.

Industry Context: A Broader Trend

Santander's decision to close branches is not an isolated event. Lloyds Banking Group has also announced plans to close 71 sites across its Lloyds, Halifax, and Bank of Scotland brands, with some of these closures already having taken place. This widespread reduction in physical bank locations indicates a significant and ongoing transformation within the UK banking sector, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences.

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Employee Impact and Redeployment Efforts

The closure of these 44 branches places 291 jobs at risk. Santander has indicated that they will engage in consultations with unions regarding these proposals. The bank has stated its intention to offer redeployment opportunities to affected colleagues within its network, acknowledging the human element of these structural changes.

Expert Commentary on Digital Shift

Financial analysts and industry observers have frequently pointed to the persistent growth of digital banking as a major force reshaping the physical branch network.

"The shift to digital is undeniable. Banks are responding to customer behavior by optimizing their physical presence to align with how people now manage their finances. This involves a strategic blend of digital investment and a more focused, versatile branch model."

Conclusion and Future Outlook

The closure of 44 Santander branches in 2026 represents a substantial adjustment to its UK operations. The bank attributes this move to the increasing prevalence of digital transactions and aims to balance its physical and digital offerings. While this strategy will result in job reductions, Santander has committed to providing redeployment options and maintaining customer access through its remaining branches, alternative formats like Santander Locals, Post Office partnerships, and Banking Hubs. The broader banking industry is undergoing similar transformations, suggesting that these trends in branch network optimization are likely to continue.

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Sources

• IBTimes UK: https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/santander-bank-branches-closing-full-list-44-uk-sites-shutting-this-year-1775011 - Article discusses the shift to digital banking and branch closures.

• Express.co.uk: https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/2174077/santander-clsoing-uk-branches-full-list - Provides a full list of branches closing in 2026 and details on the bank's strategy.

• Metro.co.uk: https://www.metro.co.uk/2026/01/29/full-list-44-santander-branches-closing-2026-26587272/ - Lists the 44 branches and their closure dates, along with quotes from the bank.

• London Business Insider: https://www.londonbusinessinsider.co.uk/santander-bank-branches-closing/ - Focuses on FAQs related to branch closures and what customers can expect.

• Mertosolutions.com: https://mertosolutions.com/blog/santander-branch-closures-2026-complete-list - Summarizes the closures and provides advice for affected customers, noting the reduction in the bank's physical presence.

• ChronicleLive: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/news/uk-news/full-list-44-uk-santander-33322614 - Offers a comprehensive list of closures and dates, and mentions ongoing negotiations with trade unions.