The Bank of Cyprus launched their latest branch in Epping, Victoria on Wednesday. This is the 12th branch to open in Australia and the second one to open in Victoria in the last 12 months.
Mayor of Whittlesea Rex Griffin officially launched the branch with the unveiling of the plaque.
The branch was filled with a mix of politicians, stakeholders, customers and staff, as the inauguration began with the ceremonial blessing, conducted by Reverend Evmenios Vasilopoulos.
Managing Director of Bank of Cyprus George Taktikos opened the proceedings by talking about what makes the Bank of Cyprus so unique and successful.
“Our staff know the customers names,” said Mr Taktikos.
He confirmed that in 2011 there will be an additional three branches opening in Australia, two of which will be in Victoria.
Shadow Minister for Veteran’s Affairs, Jenny Mikakos, was at the launch and gave a speech.
She said she was “pleased to see new branches opening in (her) electorate servicing the northern suburbs in (the) community.”
“Bank of Cyprus plays an important part in the community by servicing the community, particularly the elderly,” she explained.
“People in the community want a personal service.”
While big banks are closing down, Bank of Cyprus keeps opening branches and it’s this personal service that let’s them do it.
Bill Deralas was one of the many clients of the bank that was at the launch. He was with a major bank for 12 years before moving over to the Bank of Cyprus.
“I’m in business,” explained Mr Deralas to Neos Kosmos, “and I have a relationship with all my customers, I expect the same from my bank.”
He said at a major bank you need to be bring in millions of dollars to have a personalised service but at the Bank of Cyprus, “you feel like you are part of the family”.