"We have taken a very important step in the BCR transformation process. I am confident that our clients will soon realize the benefits of this substantial improvement in the bank's activity," Danila said. Other BCR projects in 2007 include the setting up of an Ombudsman's office (to handle customer complaints), the massive development of its network (forecast to increase to 700 branches and agencies in 2009), the opening of specialized mortgage centers, the launching of the telephone banking services, and a service for current account management.
For a full integration within the Erste group, BCR has divided its corporate clients into five categories: Large Group Clients, Large Local Clients, Large Municipalities, Real Estate and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises (SME) - managed directly from Vienna, and Small Municipalities.
BCR founded 52 business centers in Romania, offering banking services for SMEs and small municipalities. "Every client will be assigned a Relation Manager, who will be familiar with their needs and offer solutions," Danila added.
In the near future, BCR will focus on personnel training and introduce new products, especially in the Trade Finance and Project Finance sectors. BCR has €14.6 billion worth of assets and 510 branches and agencies. The lender issues 23 types of cards, and has the largest national ATM (over 1,300) and POS (11,000) networks.
