Co-operative bank sets ups cybercafe for staff

Embargoed until 00.01 8 April 2002 CO-OPERATIVE BANK SETS UPS CYBERCAFE FOR STAFF The Co-operative Bank has come up with a novel way to stop staff using the PC on their desks to gain access to Internet for their own personal use. It has set up a cybercafe at its offices at Delf house, Skelmersdale where staff can go at any time to shop, book holidays, search for information or just surf the net. If it is successful the idea may be extended to the Bank's other major sites in Manchester, Salford and Stockport. The Cybercafe, which consists of five net stations permanently connected to the Internet, stools, a vending machine and offers full wheelchair access. Director of Technology Keith Girling sees the new facility has a benefit to both the Bank and staff. He said: "The Co-operative Bank offers customers a first class Internet banking service and, of course, we own smile the leading on-line bank. The Internet is also becoming an important business tool so we want our staff to be able to use it proficiently." The initiative is part of the Virtual Banking Centre Project at Skelmersdale, which gives customers the opportunity to experience first hand the vast array of technologies that the Bank utilises in serving its accountholders. It also gives an insight into the leading edge technology of the future. The Virtual-banking Centre has recently been refreshed in terms of decor and image as well as the introduction of new state of the art technology. "The VBC is an important vehicle in raising the awareness of Technology and promoting the Business of Technology to both internal and external customers," explained Mr Girling. "Existing and prospective corporate customers have the chance to see the technology behind our business." The Cybercafe was officially opened by Geoffrey Piper, Chief Executive of the North West Business Leadership Team during a special ceremony at Delf House, today (8 April, 2002). Ends For further information contact: 8 April, 2002 Dave Smith/Paul Lawler The Co-operative Bank Press Office Tel: 0161 829 5091 Fax: 0161 839 4220 e-mail: press.office@co-operativebank.co.uk ------------------------------------------------------------ This information was brought to you by Waymaker http://www.waymaker.net The following files are available for download: http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2002/04/05/20020405BIT00380/wkr0001.doc http://www.waymaker.net/bitonline/2002/04/05/20020405BIT00380/wkr0002.pdf