Bank of Valletta inaugurated its refurbished Ħal Qormi Branch and Investment Centre, allowing for greater privacy for appointments and a more accessible setting for banking and investment services.

The bank says the upgraded premises also incorporate energy-efficiency measures.

Speaking during the official inauguration ceremony, BOV Chief Executive Officer Kenneth Farrugia highlighted that “the transformation of Ħal Qormi Branch and Investment Centre puts customers at the centre of our continued investment, improving the experience for people using these premises, and providing a better working environment for our employees. The project here covered one of the largest premises in our branch network. It marks another important step in our Branch Renovation Programme, alongside our ongoing investment in innovation and our people.”

All areas of the refurbished premises have been made accessible to all, and a new 24-hour ATM lobby now has its own entrance. Sustainability features include photovoltaic panels, an upgraded heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system, double glazing and insulation, as well as recycled and natural materials. Based on modelling, the Bank estimates that the project will reduce its annual carbon emissions by approximately 76 tonnes compared with the pre-refurbishment premises.

BOV Chief Personal and Wealth Officer, Simon Azzopardi added: “Our aim is to give customers choice in how they bank, ensuring that trusted support is available when they need it. While digital banking provides increasing convenience, customers continue to value face-to-face conversations when discussing important banking and investment needs. These refurbished premises enable us to deliver that personal service in a modern and private environment, alongside the convenience of our digital channels.”

Director Ingrid Azzopardi concluded that, “Investment in our premises is also an investment in the communities we serve. In Ħal Qormi, improved accessibility and greater energy efficiency sit alongside a renewed space for personal banking and investment advice. Together, these improvements reflect a long-term approach to meeting customers’ needs while reducing the environmental impact of the Bank’s operations.”

The completion of the renovation project was inaugurated by the Bank’s CEO, Kenneth Farrugia, and Chief Personal and Wealth Officer, Simon Azzopardi, in the presence of Chief Operations Officer, Ernest Agius, and Non-Executive Director, Ingrid Azzopardi.