THOHOYANDOU – Absa Bank’s new branch in the Mutsindo Mall, Thohoyandou, is not only one of the most spacious and modern branches in the country, it was also specially designed to meet the unique needs of the customers residing in its area.

The new Absa branch does not resemble a typical branch where the cashiers are locked away from the customers behind thick bulletproof glass. It was designed in such a way that customers can interact with the personnel and sit and relax should they need to wait to speak to one of the various consultants. The open plan design creates a spacious and relaxed atmosphere while at the same time incorporating all the technological advantages available in today’s hi-tech world.

According to Deon Oosthuizen from Absa’s media services, the two existing branches in Thohoyandou were incorporated in the new branch. The new branch officially opened its doors on Friday, June 10 and it is also the first branch in the province to boast with Absa’s new corporate identity. “The branch was relocated mainly due to insufficient space at the old branches. Ample space exists at the new premises,” said Mr Oosthuizen.

The new branch was designed to also cater for disabled people and even has a special teller for people with disabilities. No glass exists at tellers to enhance personal interaction. A tube system has been introduced to minimize security risk and Absa is also piloting other new equipment that is much more secure.

Customers who made a lot of use of the ATM facility at the old branch will be glad to know that this will remain, but due to alterations will only be operational by the end of June 2005. Nationally Absa is currently busy upgrading its network with greater ATM availability and additional outlets.

Says Juliette du Preez, Managing Executive: Absa Group Delivery Channel Services: “The environment in which Absa operates is constantly changing and at Absa we constantly explore possibilities to extend our footprint and to make our full range of services and solutions available to our customers.” The establishment of the new Absa Thohoyandou branch is evidence of this intention.

“Absa strives to take the best quality banking to the people. Our customers desire “anytime, anywhere” banking and Absa en-deavours to meet this demand,” says du Preez.

Absa currently records more than 30 million ATM transactions per month due to additional functions being made available on its ATMs. Absa Self Service Channel (ATMs) provides a service to more than 18 million customers country wide through its ATMs, PC Internet kiosks and Client-Activated Terminals.