Natwest has become the latest UK bank to target Britain's growing Polish community by launching a new current account where all services - including Internet and telephone banking services - are delivered in the Polish language.
Natwest says its new Welcome Account comes with a related money transfer feature that enables Polish customers in the UK to send money back home. Customers can transfer funds straight from the current account into the money transfer account. A family member in Poland, nominated by the customer, can then withdraw funds from the money transfer account from ATMs in Poland using a NatWest card.
Helen Page, marketing director, NatWest, says the biggest banking concern for Poles living in the UK is the ability to securely and cheaply transfer money home.
"This straightforward package is perfect for a Polish speaker's initial banking needs because it provides day-to-day banking and a safe, inexpensive way to send money to family back home," says Page.
The bank has also set up a dedicated telephony unit that is staffed by Polish speakers.
Last week Lloyds TSB said it was transforming one of its Manchester branches into a city centre banking "superstore" designed to provide tailored services to all new immigrant arrivals, particularly the expanding Polish community in the city.