Shutting shop: Santander announced 44 more branch closures as customers shift onlineDigital transactions now account for 96 per cent of all transactions, the bank said. Since 2019, there has been a 64 per cent rise in digital transactions, while in-branch payments have reduced by 66 per cent. Santander announced 95 branch closures last year as it rolled out more of its ‘work cafes’. The deal, which is expected to complete in the first quarter of this year, sparked fears of further bank closures. Banks have faced fierce criticism for branch closures, particularly their impact on vulnerable people and those living in rural areas.