Like the majority of businesses located in Lismore’s Molesworth Street, Greater Bank’s branch was forced to close due to the devastation of the March flooding.
After operating since that time out of the Community Banking Hub established on the grounds of Southern Cross University, Greater Bank is set to return to the township.
Doors will open to a temporary branch in Conway Plaza on 12 December before relocating to a new permanent site at Lismore Central Shopping Centre in early 2023.
Greater Bank Regional Manager, Toni Davis, said the reopening of the Lismore branch not only reflects a commitment to the local community but also to regional banking.
“Over-the-counter banking has been an important element of our customer service offering for more than 75 years and we are both delighted and proud to be returning the Lismore township,” Ms Davis said.
“The Community Banking Hub provided us, along with a number of other customer-owned banks, the opportunity to continue to operate and service our customers over what has been an incredibly challenging eight-month period.
“The temporary branch will enable us to get back into town before we open the doors to a new-look branch in Lismore Central Shopping Centre in the New Year, which will feature a modern design and layout that includes a concierge desk to ensure customers’ in-branch requirements are best met.”
Greater Bank Regional Manager, Toni Davis
Ms Davis said that while digital technology has driven significant change to the service demands of customers, over-the-counter banking remains important for many, particularly those in traditional and regional markets.
“Currently, more than half of our customers use the Greater Bank smartphone app or website as their primary source of interaction with us, however there are many who prefer a more personal service,” Ms Davis said.
“At a time when many financial institutions have closed the doors on bank branches across Australia, particularly in regional areas, this is a clear reflection of our commitment to our branch network.
“Since 1980, we’ve been providing customers in Lismore and the wider Northern Rivers region with quality, over-the-counter services. We are not only committed to maintaining this practice, but genuinely excited about being part of what will be a revitalised business and retail community.
“The new Lismore branch will not only continue to support the needs of existing customers, but we believe also attract new customers from the area to Greater Bank.”
To celebrate the return to the township, Greater Bank is also linked with local cafes on the opening day – Ciao Belli & Henry’s Bakery – providing each with $350 to fund a “coffee giveaway” for current and new customers.
“The coffee giveaway was a simple gesture that not only supported our customers and the community in general, but also two small business owners that have done it tough in recent months,” Ms Davis added.
Greater Bank currently has 53 branches across NSW and South-East Queensland, that services more than 270,000 customers.