RBC (Bahamas) announced yesterday that it would be merging four of its branches with four others as the commercial bank seeks to digitize many of its services. It is unclear, however, how many employees would be impacted by this move.
In a statement sent to Guardian Business, RBC disclosed that the following branches would be merged: Treasure Cay branch with Marsh Harbour branch effective April 7; Lynden Pindling International Airport branch with Cable Beach branch effective May 19; Bimini branch with Freeport branch in Grand Bahama effective May 26; and Spanish Wells branch with Harbor Island branch, effective June 23.
RBC said it expects the branch mergers to create opportunities at the destination branches or other RBC locations for staff impacted by the merger.
"RBC will partner with employees to identify alternative opportunities they may wish to consider during their respective transition period," said RBC.
"Where this is not possible, we are committed to communicating regularly with employees so they have the information they need to make informed decisions about their future."
Managing Director for RBC Northern Caribbean Nathaniel Beneby said in a separate statement: "Change is both exciting and challenging, especially when people within our teams will be impacted. In keeping with our values, we remain committed to treating all employees with fairness and respect during this transition, and will work with them to ensure that they are supported throughout the process."
But concerns were raised by members of the public on how services would continue in light of RBC's withdrawal from the listed locations. For instance, RBC is the only commercial bank available on the island of Bimini.
RBC said clients have various options such as "visiting their new home branch", which means in some cases traveling to another island to perform certain services.
"It is important that our clients know there will be no change to their banking arrangements during the mergers. RBC is committed to a smooth, uninterrupted transfer of their accounts to the receiving branches or to any other RBC branch where they prefer to do business," said RBC.
"Clients can continue to access their account(s) through any of our multiple, enhanced, self-serve channels, including ATMs, point of sale, online and mobile banking.
"You can also visit any of our branches or contact one of our mobile banking officers, which includes mortgage and auto finance specialists. RBC Royal Bank remains committed to serving the community through these channels."
When asked directly how many jobs would be affected as a result of the mergers, RBC did not provide specific information.
Instead it said, "We carefully plan for growth initiatives and changes in our organization to minimize the impact to our employees, our clients and our key stakeholders. Regarding individual employees' careers, we respect the privacy and confidentiality of our employees' information and will not speak publicly to these in detail."
RBC said the decision comes as "consumer preferences continue to evolve and more clients now expect the ability to manage their financial needs whenever - and wherever - they choose."

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