HSBC Malta re-opened its branch in Paola following extensive refurbishment work. An important branch in HSBC Malta’s network, the centrally-located Paola facility is the first branch to be upgraded in the Southern Area.

This upgrade forms part of HSBC Malta’s €8 million investment to revamp branches over a period of five years. This is the fourth branch to undergo such a makeover this year following upgrades in the Bugibba and Hamrun branches as well as the HSBC Premier Swieqi branch.

HSBC Malta CEO Alan Richards said: “I am sure our customers in Paola will be delighted with the stunning refurbishment of the Paola Branch. The branch redesign, based on HSBC’s latest design concept, reflects the changing needs of our customers. We are seeing less demand for transaction processing and more interest in providing an environment where we can hold quality conversations and deliver a higher level of overall service.”

The branch has been reorganised to allow for an improved customer relationship and more personalised services in a secure and intimate environment. In-house surveys show that customers are more likely to visit their branch to seek a personal financial solution tailored to their specific need or the need of their business. HSBC offers a comprehensive range of services relating including financial planning, business banking, mortgages and investments.

HSBC revealed that only five per cent of conventional banking transactions are now carried out over the counter in branches. HSBC’s in-house surveys indicate that 95 per cent of customers prefer to make use of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), the Internet or Call Centres which are more accessible and convenient.

As part of the centenary celebrations of Christ the King Parish being held this year, HSBC Malta Foundation sponsored a choral concert by the St Paul’s Choral Society.