News

Barclays Botswana aims for 'go-to bank' status with next-gen ATMs

The new ATMs will enable branch transactions beyond traditional banking hours, as well as nontraditional services such as bill payment, funds transfer, mobile phone top-up and mini statements.

July 8, 2014

Barclays Bank of Botswana, that nation's largest bank, has partnered with Bytes Managed Solutions, the exclusive distributor of NCR Corp. technologies in southern Africa, for the installation of intelligent cash deposit ATMs.

The new ATMs will give Barclays customers access to branch transactions beyond traditional banking hours and at their convenience. The devices accept cash deposits with real-time credit capability, recycle deposited cash, dispense cash and accommodate check deposits. Additional services include bill payment, funds transfer, mobile phone top-up and mini statements.

The release included a statement from Malebogo Sebusang, head of channels at Barclays Bank of Botswana:

This investment in cutting edge technology positions Barclays to substantially grow its market share as consumers demand more convenience. It also affirms our goal to become the 'go-to' bank in Botswana. For customers, transactions such as cash deposits will be effected in real-time, giving them 24/7 ability to transact, and to experience secure cash handling. The new ATMs are optimized for simple cash deposit transactions, allowing our employees in the branches to spend more time with customers on complex banking transactions.

The ATMs required substantial adjustments for the Botswana market. Currency note templates had to be developed and then tested rigorously for correct note detection and rejection. The project management office at Bytes worked extensively with NCR and Barclays Bank of Botswana to ensure accuracy.

Proof of concept and demonstration of the ATMs began midway through 2013; the machines were officially launched last month, the release said.