STRATEGIC PARTNERS
July 28, 2002
Patrick Waldron, Bank of Ireland's director of direct channels, said, "We are regularly canvassed to install ATMs in a variety of locations, but until now, didn't have an economically viable basis for doing so. The Hanco machines have a lower cost infrastructure and can be installed in low volume sites that, in the past, could not have justified a traditional ATM."
Among the retail chains the bank is reportedly negotiating with is Musgraves, which runs the Super Valu and Centra supermarket chains. Musgraves is expected to be a key player in the bank's expansion, according to the Independent.
Musgraves has not confirmed that talks are taking place but admitted that the inclusion of cash dispensers on its sites was being considered as a future development.
Bank of Ireland said that it was examining ways of increasing its ATM coverage nationwide, in particular to rural locations currently not being served. The plan comes as both Bank of Ireland and competitor AIB consider proposals to close regional branches.
