CUSTOMERS of Japan’s Resona Bank will soon be able to do their business in a truck — instead of inside a building. Resona is set to launch mobile branches. The move comes as Japanese banks are cutting back on outlets as more customers go online. Resona’s president says the bank wants to enhance customer convenience through a new type of branch, rather than simply downsizing. It says it will be the first major financial institution in Japan to operate such vehicles. Each will have two staff members. The branches-on-wheels will provide nearly all the same services as their conventional counterparts. Customers will be able to open accounts and get investment advice. The first units will start operation in Tokyo and Osaka. They will initially be open twice a week at parking lots and other locations. (SD-Agencies) |