Isle of Man Bank is to launch the first mobile banking service on the Island early next month.
The new vehicle with branch banking on board, known as ‘Penny’, visited Kirk Michael School yesterday (Monday, February 16), ahead of a tour of the Island next week, which will enable the public to see the facilities available, learn more about how it will operate and ask questions about the service. Among those present was Isle of Man Bank Area Manager, Branch Banking, Deniese Smith who welcomed MHK Alf Cannan who was shown around the new facility.
The arrival of ‘Penny’ will ensure banking services are available to many communities including Onchan, Kirk Michael, Laxey, and Ballasalla. It is equipped with satellite technology so customers can do everything they would do in a normal branch including withdraw cash; pay-in cheques and cash; order and collect foreign currencies; account opening information, obtain balances, statements and information about products and services. It will also have an on-board iPad which will allow customers to register for Online Banking, with colleagues on hand to provide demonstrations of its capabilities such as keeping track of statements, transferring money to and from accounts and paying bills.
‘Penny’ will be on the road next week visiting Ballasalla and Port St Mary on Monday (February 23), Foxdale, Ballaugh and St John’s on Tuesday, Laxey and Onchan on Wednesday and Kirk Michael and Cooil Business Park on Thursday. (Specific times listed below).
Her introduction is in part a response to the closure this year of three Isle of Man bank branches on February 27th in Onchan, Ballasalla and Prospect Terrace in Douglas, which was first announced last year.
Deniese Smith, commented:
‘The introduction of our mobile banking service will ensure that customers in our communities will have access to a branch banking service. Branch usage in the Isle of Man had fallen by 30% over the last four years. Our customers are increasingly using online services so one of the features on board ‘Penny’ will be guidance and practical demonstrations in using Online Banking for those new to the concept. We hope as many people as possible will come along during the ‘Meet Penny’ tour next week, prior to the introduction of the service.’
Commenting on the facility, MHK Alf Cannan, said:
‘I am delighted that the Isle of Man Bank has invested in this new mobile banking facility and I am sure it will be welcomed in the rural villages and communities. I wish the Bank every success with their new venture.’
A full timetable for the mobile banking service, due to begin formally on 02 March 2015, can be picked up in branch or accessed via www.iombank.com/Penny.
