Barclays Bank at Baie Ste Anne moves into new building |28 April 2018

The Baie Ste Anne Barclays branch which had stood as an icon in the heart of the district’s ‘commercial area’ for almost 40 years has now been replaced by a new building which was officially opened earlier this week.

The Praslin community would now benefit from a new and more stylish and trendy building with modern banking facilities on par with international standards that meet the needs of clients.

Among the newly introduced banking conveniences are the bulk teller station to accommodate businesses and an inside ATM. An ATM outside the bank, which will comprise a cash-accepting device and a kiosk for internet banking, will be set up shortly.

Customers will now sit comfortably for all services being offered. The new building has also brought more comfort and thus a more conducive environment for members of staff. This will no doubt boost the morale of staff and increase productivity.

Addressing everyone present to witness the event, Johan Van Schalkwyk, managing director of Barclays, shared that it was time the bank produced something new and different for its customers at Baie Ste Anne after so many years.

Barclays started its services on Praslin in 1969 as an agency, then moved to the old Barclays branch in 1980 and finally this new branch.

“The old branch had served us well, thanks to the support of its customers but it was time that Barclays produced something new and different for its customers in Baie Ste Anne. We decided to not only refurbish it but rather build something completely new and of higher standards. We are aiming to be more digitally advanced in our banking services to improve customer experience. This is only the beginning of a journey that we will travel together, currently as Barclays and soon as the ABSA group. Starting our services on Praslin in 1969 as an agency, to the old branch in 1980 and finally this new branch; we are moving forward,” said managing director Van Schalkwyk.

It was Christophe Edmond, deputy governor of the Central Bank of Seychelles and Amina Barbé, branch manager, who had the honour to officially open the new building.

“It is indeed an honour for me to witness the opening of the new branch and to be part of it. I joined the Barclays Bank in 1987 and it was my very first job. I joined as a secretary and eventually worked my way up the ladder. Over 31 years now I am proud to be the branch manager today. Over the years, I have learned a lot and have also shared my knowledge with other colleagues; something I believe strongly in. This comes to show how hard work and perseverance pays off,” Mrs Barbé shared with everyone present.

Text: Nadia Bédier

Photos: Romano Laurence