As digital adoption accelerates and customer preferences shift, Standard Bank is transforming its branch and ATM network to meet the moment. The bank, which has more than 4,100 points of representation (branches and ATMs combined) in South Africa, is revamping its physical banking network, with some branches becoming fully cashless. Certain Standard Bank branches have seen a significant reduction in cash activity from specific client segments.

The new cashless branches will focus on sales, financial advisory, digital services, and staff-assisted complex services. They will also offer services such as loan applications, transfers, account opening, and assistance with account management.

“With cash volumes declining in some areas, we decided to review our branch network and streamline our footprint. Cash services have been consolidated into central branches with improved processing capabilities to enhance access, efficiency, and client experience,” says Kabelo Makeke, Head of Personal and Private Banking at Standard Bank.

Echoing this focus on client needs, Oscar Siziba, Head of Coverage for Business Banking at Standard Bank South Africa, emphasizes the priority of ensuring business owners’ cash management needs are met.

“We recognise that cash plays a critical role in many of our clients’ day-to-day operations. Our focus is to ensure our clients’ cash needs are met by making access to cash services seamless and dependable through the Branch, ATM, and Cash Centre channels,” says Siziba.

Beyond branches and ATMs, Standard Bank offers business and corporate clients various cash solutions to cater to deposit and withdrawal requirements, including – but not limited to – CashSecure devices, enhanced cash systems, and cash-in-transit (CIT) services.

Next-generation ATMs coming across South Africa

As it streamlines branch operations, Standard Bank has upgraded all its ATMs in South Africa to faster, next-generation touchscreen machines that are attracting high usage, even from non-clients.

“Reduced transaction times and fewer delays are among the key reasons we’re seeing such high foot traffic,” explains Makeke. “These new ATMs represent a leap forward. We’ve moved beyond legacy issues like card retentions and lagging screens to a sleek, responsive system built for the future.”

The ATMs process withdrawals in as little as 45 seconds from card insertion to cash in hand. With large touchscreens and intuitive navigation, they closely mirror the experience personal banking customers get when using the Standard Bank app. Enhanced fraud protection and security features further ensure client safety.

“We are making every effort to ensure minimal disruption to customers as we refine our branch operations and upgrade our ATMs. Our goal is to deliver a banking experience that is modern and secure, while remaining inclusive,” concludes Makeke.