UK banking customers prefer to have the option of online banking alongside the more traditional methods of managing their money, according to one industry insider.
Ian Robinson, a senior researcher at consumer watchdog Which?, noted that in his experience customers prefer to "have it both ways", being able to pop into a branch when necessary and conduct online banking when more appropriate.
Online banking offers good rates of interest and customer satisfaction, although many Britons are willing to accept slightly lower rates in order to keep the option of other forms of communication, he said.
"What they're getting from online banking then is convenience - all the convenience of being able to bank out of hours and access their accounts at home," remarked Mr Robinson.
He added that these same online banking customers still enjoy the opportunity of face-to-face transactions during working hours if they need to deposit a cheque or see an advisor.
A spokesperson for Nationwide Building Society recently revealed that online banking is now regarded as a major sales channel, with the service's popularity continuing to grow.






