As part of Standard Chartered's commitment to providing world class services and premises, the bank on Tuesday launched its new branch in Defence increasing its branch network to 22 in Pakistan.
Standard Chartered Bank plans to open nine smart branches by year-end bringing the total number of branches in Pakistan to 30. The first smart branch is Defence Branch, located on 12-C, Khayaban-e-Shahbaz, Lane 2, Phase IV, DHA, Karachi.
This is a full service branch, offering account opening, ATMs, cash withdrawals and deposits, asset products as well as locker facilities.
Speaking on the occasion, Abid Sattar, Head of Consumer Banking, said, "We are the only international bank to have 22 branches in all the four provinces of the country with plans to launch eight more smart branches by the end of this year.
"Amidst minimalist inferiors, our attentive bank staff well equipped with a ready smile and updated knowledge, are ready to provide efficient service enabling our customers to plan, build and protect what they value most."
This is the first smart branch to be opened by the bank. Smart branches are a break away from the traditional distribution model at Standard Chartered. These branches are driven by asset sales, ie, these tranches largely focus sales efforts on asset products such as mortgages, credit cards, auto loans and personal loans.
Commenting on this occasion, Standard Chartered Chief Executive Badar Kazmi said, "The opening of the new branch in quick succession to the Islamic branch opened in July along with our plans to open eight more branches by the year-end is a reflection of our commitment to Pakistan.
With a presence of over 150 years, we at Standard Chartered Bank are confidently looking to contribute positively to the development of the country.
"Our deep local knowledge and understanding are important enablers in the provision of sophisticated solutions to our customers. We have successfully forged strong relationship with our stakeholders and have built a sound reputation of providing high quality banking products and services."-PR