BBVA announced on Thursday its entire branch network in Spain is now operational after the bank reopened the last of the branches that were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. BBVA reported that the branches will follow strict safety measures, and the banking group is relying on its appointment system to encourage compliance with health guidelines.
“From May onwards, once the government had announced the different phases of the lockdown exit process, and based on customer usability data, BBVA proceeded to reopen more branches throughout Spain, according to the needs and situation of each area. As of today, BBVA’s entire Spain network is already open for business, except for those branches that usually close at certain times for the summer, which will reopen in September.”
BBVA further noted that during the worst months of the COVID-19 pandemic, it continued to operate as usual through remote working, with only 10% of the Spain branch network’s employees have worked on-site in branches since the state of emergency was declared.
“The bank’s transformation process has enabled it to provide quality financial services throughout this health crisis, and its customers have been able to bank online without having to go to the branches. Currently, customers can do 100% of their banking through digital channels, and the app offers more than 800 functions.”
Furthermore, from March 14th to May, BBVA notably increased its digital customer base by nearly 250,000 to 5.3 million customers. The branches in Spain have been reopened under strict hygiene and safety measures, and signs have been placed at entrances to inform the public about the rules to be followed inside the branches.
“Clients must enter the branch buildings in an orderly fashion to ensure the capacity limits are not exceeded, and the distance recommended by the health authorities is maintained.”
Spain has had more than 242,000 confirmed cases over COVID-19, with over 27,000 deaths. Of the confirmed cases, 150,000 have recovered.