In the first phase, Citibank Japan opened the first full-service smart banking branches in Citi’s global network in Nihonbashi and Tokyo Ekimae in Tokyo in April 2010, followed by the Nagoya branch in November 2010 and the Shinjuku East branch in March 2011.
According to the bank, the second phase of the smart banking project will enhance the further convenience for customers by launching smaller banking outlets in major transit points and convenient areas relevant to the customers’ lifestyles around Japan.
The bank said that the smart banking mini-branch will offer the majority of services available in the full-service branches. In addition, it will provide facilities for those who wish to receive full consultation.
Through this mini bank, customers opening an account can receive a cashcard available for immediate use in Japan and overseas in a minimum of 20 minutes, which will allow them to use ATMs overseas to withdraw local currencies from their Japan bank account, bank said.
Citibank Japan is aiming to open more smart banking mini-branches within the next twelve months, with plans to have a total number of retail banking branches across the country to be 35.
Citibank Japan representative director, president and CEO Darren Buckley said the bank is confident that smart banking will continue to be well accepted by customers in Japan.
"The Hamamatsucho branch is a great fit with the busy lifestyles led by many of Citibank’s customers, and this new phase is in line with being where customers are, and to meet their ever-changing demands for outstanding banking services," Buckley said.
