Santander Brazil Alters How Its Branches Function
In response to the surging number of COVID-19 cases in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, Santander Brazil has announced a series of measures aimed at prioritising the safety of both its employees and the 26 million families it serves daily. These measures are part of the bank's response to the coronavirus pandemic.
Starting on March 24, 2020, Santander Brazil will implement enhanced safety measures. Branches with a higher concentration of pensioners or elderly customers may reserve a specific time slot (9.00 to 10.00) for these groups. To further support businesses during these challenging times, Santander Brazil will offer a credit facility to corporate customers that decide to adopt similar measures to help their employees.
Recognising the importance of employee wellbeing, Santander Brazil has also decided to advance the payment of 100% of the extra pay (13th salary) to its employees. The number of employees working from home at Santander Brazil has been increased, and after a 15-day leave period, these employees will be alternated with other units to maintain service in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Some employees from the branches to be closed will go on collective annual leaves of 15 days.
To minimise the spread of the coronavirus, Santander Brazil will allow gradual customer access in groups of 10 to 20 people. The operating hours of branches nationwide will be reduced from 10.00 to 14.00. The minimum safety distance of one metre will be ensured in branches, and hygienisation and cleaning measures have been reinforced.
Chair of Santander Brazil, Sérgio Rial, stated that the bank's efforts are aimed at minimising the impact on communities amid the worsening coronavirus crisis. For the most up-to-date and detailed information on Santander Brazil branch operations, closures, or reduced hours related to COVID-19, it is recommended to check the official Santander Brazil website or their official communication channels. Consulting local news updates or official Brazilian government advisories on financial services during the pandemic may also provide useful information.
Santander Brazil will offer a credit facility to corporate customers as a way to support businesses in adopting similar measures to help their employees, demonstrating its commitment to the financial well-being of businesses. Recognizing the importance of employee wellbeing, Santander Brazil has also decided to advance the payment of the extra pay (13th salary) to its employees, emphasizing the bank's focus on the finance and well-being of its employees.
