Nonhlanhla Kambule

First National Bank/ FNB, Eastgate, Gauteng/ Autoteller machine

First National Bank on Tuesday announced the official launch of its regional head office in Port Elizabeth.

“One FNB” Regional Office is the largest construction office block in the city over the last few years. It is currently the first to house all FirstRand Group Business Units and will be occupied by Group Companies such as Rand Merchant Bank, FNB Private Clients, RMB Private Bank, Global Transactional Services, International Banking, FNB Insurance Brokers FNB Commercial, Premier Banking and FNB Online.

Sagren Ramalingum, FNB Provincial Chairman, says: “The city of Port Elizabeth's economy is increasingly modern and export oriented, with great potential for growth of existing and the establishment of new industries. We strongly believe in the economic growth potential of the Eastern Cape and the building of the Regional Office complex is part of our continued investment into the city.”

“Our role as a proudly South African organisation extends further than banking alone. FNB sees this building as a tangible expression of its commitment to this city and region. Our total investment in the region is in excess of R 160 million and we plan to invest a further R30 million on the upgrade of the FNB Newton Park Branch,” adds Ramalingum.

The design of the building boasts mechanical and electrical installations which are energy efficient and are arguably the first few in South Africa with the flexible sprinkler installation. These are just one of the few green building principles that have been closely monitored and evaluated.

“We are proud to have contributed to such an initiative where we further hope that through developments such as these we will continually contribute significantly to the jobs and income generation in the province. The project would not have been a success without the great partnership with the City councillors and staff who have played a major role in reaching this point” concludes Ramalingum. - I-Net Bridge