THE Co-operative Bank has signed a groundbreaking agreement with the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) to develop a new business banking package for its member base.
FSB Business Banking is the first business bank account from a High Street bank to be endorsed by the FSB, the UK's largest campaigning pressure group protecting and promoting the interests of 185,000 small businesses.
FSB Business Banking offers members exclusive access to a business current account package with 18 months free banking, an annual loyalty bonus of £ 25, a fee-free overdraft, a free for life FSB Business Visa charge card, five unique customer service guarantees and the peace of mind about where their money is invested through the Co-operative Bank's Ethical Policy.
Members will also have access to discounted business lending and an FSB personal loan whereby business owners and their employees can borrow between £ 2,000 and £ 25,000 at competitive rates.
Sheila Macdonald, Chief Operating Officer at the Co-operative Bank, said: "We are delighted that the FSB has endorsed our business banking products in this way. As the largest small business campaigning pressure group in the UK, the endorsement underlines our growing reputation in the business banking market.
"I look forward to the relationship blossoming as we go forward."
Sandy Harris, Member Services Chairman at the Federation of Small Businesses, said: "We are delighted to have the Co-operative Bank on board. I know our members will be very interested in the range of banking products and services that have been specifically designed for them.
"FSB Business Banking will be available as a valuable addition to the family of benefits for members after our 2004 Annual Conference later this month."
Picture: Sandy Harris, of the FSB (left) and Peter Sutcliffe, the Co-op Bank's Executive Director, Retail Banking Business Management, signing the contract to provide banking services to FSB members.
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