Banco Santander is to launch its 'Work Café' concept in the UK, billed as a community hub offering state-of-the-art banking facilities, free co-working spaces and freshly-brewed artisan coffee.
First developed by Santander in Chile and now in six countries worldwide, the UK's first Work cafe will open in Leeds on 18 July 2019 at a branch that was previously closed at the end of June last year.
With free wifi, co-working spaces, and meeting rooms, the aim is to create a dynamic hub for nurturing new business ideas and fostering collaboration in a relaxed atmosphere.
A total of thirteen employees will be on hand to offer support, with appointments available to meet on site with a Personal Banker, Business Relationship Manager or Select Relationship Manager for wealth clients.
The cafe itself, which is open to the general public, serves up hot brews by trained baristas sourced from Taylor St. Coffee.
Susan Allen, head of retail and business banking, Santander UK says: “More than a café and more than a bank, the Work Café is a whole new banking experience, acting as a vibrant hub for local businesses and the local community. Work Cafés have been a huge success with our customers in other countries around the world, so we’re really looking forward to seeing the response here in the UK.”