Cargills Bank is unique among Sri Lankan banks in offering cash deposit and withdrawal facilities via Cargills Supermarket checkout counters through its Supermarket Banking service. Now, in a further landmark expansion of this initiative, Cargills Bank has announced that an additional 51 Cargills Supermarket outlets will provide this service, increasing the number of banking-enabled supermarkets from 479 locations to 530 supermarkets. This initiative leverages Cargills supermarkets’ extensive Islandwide retail network, and is part of the bank’s ongoing mission to drive inclusivity by bringing essential financial services closer to every corner of the country.

Cargills Bank was the first to introduce agency banking in Sri Lanka through a unique partnership with the Cargills Retail network, allowing customers to manage their basic banking needs while shopping for groceries.

This innovative “Bank while you shop” service provides convenient access to services such as deposits, withdrawals, and the collection of local and foreign remittances for Sri Lankans in both rural and urban areas.

This unique model stands out for many reasons. Cargills supermarkets operate 365 days a year, from 8.00am to 10.00pm, providing a level of accessibility that goes well beyond a conventional bank branch.

Additionally, customers benefit from a secure environment with human assistance, for a more personalised, customer-centric experience. Even non-customers can take advantage of this service, using the bank’s unique collection account facility to make third-party payments and settle bills at their local supermarket.

Commenting on this milestone, Senarath Bandara, MD/CEO of Cargills Bank said, “The expansion of supermarket banking is yet another step towards fulfilling our commitment to providing our customers with unmatched benefits and convenience. We are grateful to be supported by the Cargills Group, as we strive to be the most progressive and inclusive bank in Sri Lanka, providing innovative financial solutions that fulfil the needs of all Sri Lankans, whether in bustling cities or remote villages. We also take this opportunity to express our gratitude to the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, which has supported us in this initiative, as the Regulator, since we launched agency banking in 2017. These additional 51 locations have been added to our network with the approval and oversight of the Central Bank.”

Cargills Supermarket banking is particularly useful in towns and rural areas, where traditional banking services are less accessible..