In a move that bucks the industry trend, HSBC UK has committed to keeping all 327 of its bank branches open until at least 2027. The announcement, which extends the bank’s existing “branch promise”, is a rare show of support for physical banking locations at a time when many major banks are scaling them back or shutting them down altogether.
Commitment
HSBC first introduced its branch promise two years ago, assuring customers it wouldn’t close any more branches until the end of 2024. Now, that promise has been extended by another three years — a decision that comes with more investment and a strong message about the role of in-person banking in a digital-first world.
Sally Williams, head of HSBC UK’s branch network, said the investment is about continuing to serve customers who value face-to-face banking, especially for complex transactions.
Investment
Alongside the commitment to keeping branches open, HSBC also plans to increase its branch investment by around 30% in 2026. That means spending £55.8 million on upgrades and modernisation across the UK, up from £42 million in 2025.
The investment will go toward refurbishing existing branches, updating self-service technology, and improving accessibility to make branches more useful for a broader range of customers.
Usage
Despite the shift toward digital banking, HSBC says its branch network remains busy. On average, 825,000 customers visit a branch every month, and more than two million transactions are completed through self-service machines.
Christopher Dean, HSBC UK’s managing director of wealth, premier, and personal banking, said the move reflects the bank’s ongoing support for local communities and high streets.
He added that the extension of the branch promise is a “long-term commitment” to keeping services accessible to everyone, regardless of their comfort with online banking.
Industry Trend
While HSBC is doubling down on physical locations, many of its competitors have gone in the opposite direction. Over the last decade, HSBC itself has closed hundreds of branches. Across the UK banking industry, widespread closures have led to concerns about access to cash and face-to-face banking services.
In response, alternatives like banking hubs and Post Office banking services have emerged to help fill the void in communities without a local branch.
Nationwide, for example, recently pledged to keep all 696 of its Nationwide and Virgin Money branches open until at least 2030 — the most ambitious commitment of its kind to date.
Reactions
Consumer advocates have welcomed HSBC’s decision, though they say more still needs to be done.
Sam Richardson, deputy editor of Which? Money, noted that while the move is positive, the bank’s history of closures has already left some communities struggling.
He urged other banks to make similar pledges, especially for the benefit of people who aren’t ready to go fully digital.
“Those who need access to cash or face-to-face help shouldn’t be left behind,” Richardson said.
Future
HSBC’s latest announcement positions the bank as one of the few major financial institutions actively investing in brick-and-mortar banking. With millions of monthly visits and strong customer engagement, the bank clearly sees value in keeping physical locations alive — at least for now.
Whether this signals a broader industry shift or remains an exception to the rule will depend on whether other firms follow suit.
But for the time being, HSBC customers can breathe easy knowing that their local branch won’t be disappearing any time soon.
FAQs
How long will HSBC keep branches open?
All 327 branches are guaranteed open until at least 2027.
How much is HSBC investing in branches?
HSBC will invest £55.8 million in its branch network in 2026.
Why is HSBC keeping branches open?
To serve customers who need in-person banking services.
How many people visit HSBC branches?
Around 825,000 customers visit HSBC branches each month.
Are other banks making similar promises?
Yes, Nationwide has pledged to keep branches open until 2030.
