In line with the idea of making HSBC the “Best Place to Bank”, a new purpose-built Business Banking Centre that will be at the service of the bank’s 15,000 business customers, was officially opened in Qormi yesterday.

Responding to the needs of the local business community, for which the bank handles just under Lm900 million (EUR2.1 billion), HSBC decided to bring its full range of commercial services under one roof, enabling employees to respond far quicker to customer needs.

James Dunbar-Cousin, head of commercial banking at HSBC, said: “The response to the business community is paramount and we need to continually strive to exceed expectations. This new centre will enable us do just this”.

The bank’s chief executive officer, Shaun Wallis, highlighted the fact that since business is personal, HSBC has been tailoring its commercial services to the diverse needs of companies and communities, ensuring a world-class service and helping the local business community grow and prosper.

HSBC Group’s commercial banking general manager, Alan M. Kier, who flew to Malta specifically for the opening of the Business Banking Centre, said that Malta now not only has a real part to play in the bank’s global network, but the country was leading the way with regard to tailor-made, complete and solutions for businesses.

Investment, Industry and Information Technology Minister Austin Gatt, who was among the public figures attending yesterday’s launch, said that privatisation of HSBC’s forerunner, Mid-Med Bank, proved to have been a very successful move, which was contributing to the country’s transformation into a world-class player.

“HSBC’s presence in Malta and this initiative in particular, is a winner for Malta’s competitive opportunities,” said Dr Gatt.

The Business Banking Centre consists of an open plan office covering over 1,800 square metres and will house a 130-staff complement.

The new building, sitting alongside HSBC’s Operations Centre, boasts modern facilities, including conference rooms, interview rooms, as well as space and equipment for business lunches.