Ulster Bank Announces Branch Network Expansion Plans

14 May 2007

Ulster Bank today, announced a significant expansion of its retail network in Munster. It is set to open seven new branches in communities across Munster in the next 18 months bringing the total number of branches in Ireland to 222. This expansion is in response to the ever growing needs of rural customers across Ireland for banking services.

This expansion announcement accompanies the introduction of two new mobile banks which will take to the road to service more rural areas around the country. Ulster Bank has invested over €300,000 in its new mobile branches and this move brings the number of mobile banking units to four. The mobile units will bring great banking facilities and five star service to the more remote areas of the country. This comes as many other banks are closing branches or cutting back on services in rural areas thus illustrating Ulster Bank's commitment to bring its offering to both urban and rural areas.

Both the branch expansion and new mobile banking units are part of Ulster Bank's €73million investment into the expansion and development of its branch network. The first of its new Munster branches will open on Pearse Square in Fermoy later this summer. Other new branches will include Clonakilty and Carrigaline and proves Ulster Bank's commitment to being the number one bank in Munster and indeed Ireland.

Commenting on the announcement, Sean Healy, Managing Director, Ulster Bank Retail Markets said: "We are delighted to announce our expansion into Munster. We have been at the forefront in delivering real competition in the market for some time now by offering innovative products across all areas from mortgages to current accounts. We are looking forward to bringing the benefits of these products such as Transaction-Fee Free Banking* to more customers in Munster."

Healy added, "And if you cannot come to us, we will come to you as we are delighted to have our new mobile bank up and running in Munster. This highlights our ongoing commitment to not only upgrading existing premises and expanding our store network throughout the region but also to answering the needs of our customers in rural Munster."

*Charges for additional services may still apply. Please see our booklet 'A Guide to Personal Current Account Fees and Interest' available in branch for further details.