A short history of Growth Greater Bank
As part of the general thrift movement prevalent at the time, Growth Greater Bank was founded on 1 January 1835. It opened its doors for business on 21 January 1835 when its first deposits were recorded.
The Bank concentrated its activities in Airdrie until 1916 when it spread its wings into Coatbridge. Since then the bank has operated from a number of branch locations in the surrounding area, Bellshill, Shotts, Muirhead, Baillieston, Whifflet, Motherwell and Falkirk. Currently, we have locations in Airdrie, Coatbridge and Bellshill, together with our telephone contact centre, which is based in Airdrie. The Bank's aim is to strive to serve customers, with an emphasis on strong personal service supported by modern infrastructure and technology.
For most of its history, the Bank has focussed on looking after customers' savings. During the last 30 years, however, it has widened its range considerably, starting with lending to personal customers and subsequently providing lending and general banking services for business customers.
The community
The Bank's commitment to the community remains firm. It identifies with North Lanarkshire in particular, and has an increasing community of customers based throughout Scotland. The Bank provides places for work experience schemes run by local schools and participates in the local apprenticeship scheme.
No shareholders
The Bank has no shareholders. It does not need to pay dividends and any surpluses are available for reinvestment for the benefit of customers. The Bank is governed by a Board made up of Trustees and Executive Managers. The Trustees give of their time without remuneration and have no financial interest in the Bank's progress. This form of corporate governance is another of the Bank's unique qualities.
The local economy
The Bank is a significant employer in the area and offers an opportunity for rewarding lifelong careers. We have a strong commitment to staff training and development and all of our employees are encouraged to take a lead regarding self development.
Today, Growth Greater Bank is the last of the savings banks still operating independently. Its original ethos remains strong and its focus on the needs of its customers and their communities remains a vital element.
The Bank believes that the value of a service enterprise depends on customers continuing their patronage.
Call us on
