NatWest Group has extended its collaboration with NCR Atleos to upgrade its network of more than 5,500 ATMs and multi-function devices across the UK.
As part of the agreement, all NatWest-owned ATMs and multi-function devices will be replaced with NCR Atleos’ advanced technology, featuring a new customer interface displayed on 19-inch touchscreen screens.
The bank states that this initiative aims to enhance its branch and self-service operations, improve device availability, and enable quicker implementation of new transactions and services.
Richard Talbot, Head of Cash and Self Service at NatWest Group, commented: “We are on a journey to deliver a next-generation self-service refresh across our software and customer facing technology.
“NCR Atleos’ flexible, scalable self-service platforms and proven expertise are helping us build the framework that will enable future agility, innovation and growth in the self-service channel. We look forward to exploring future self-service innovation with our trusted partners at NCR Atleos.”
The upgrade will benefit all NatWest Group banks, including NatWest Bank, Royal Bank of Scotland and Ulster Bank. The organisation recognised the need for a more agile and efficient self-service banking platform, prompting this enhancement.
This aligns with a recent trend among high street banks to improve their cash machines, acknowledging that cash is still an important payment method despite the rise of contactless payments.
Diego Navarrete, Executive Vice President of Global Sales at NCR Atleos, stressed the need for improvements such as this, stating that “as customer expectations for seamless banking interactions continue to grow, financial institutions need the right self-service technology to stay ahead of the curve.”
He added: “We are proud to support NatWest Group in their initiative to transform their self-service channels, ensuring secure, convenient and dependable access to cash and financial services for their customers.”
NatWest has recently placed a strong emphasis on innovation. Earlier this month, it became the first bank in Europe to adopt Mastercard’s mobile virtual card app, enabling businesses to provide employees with virtual cards for use worldwide.
The NCR Atleos extension also comes after many UK high-street banks are closing physical branches due to a significant focus on mobile and online banking. NatWest appears to be catering to its customers who rely on cash the most, especially as the effects of the cost-of-living crisis still linger.
