Background of the Study
Expanding branch networks is a vital strategy for banks seeking to increase their market share and improve accessibility to financial services. Union Bank of Nigeria has embarked on an aggressive branch expansion initiative, targeting both urban centers and underserved rural areas. This strategy is designed to enhance geographic coverage, attract new customers, and drive overall growth in market share (Adebayo, 2023; Chinonso, 2024). By investing in new branch infrastructure and upgrading existing facilities, the bank aims to provide a consistent and high-quality service experience across different regions.
The branch expansion strategy is underpinned by a comprehensive market analysis that identifies key areas with high growth potential. In addition to physical expansion, Union Bank integrates digital solutions such as self-service kiosks and online appointment systems to streamline operations and reduce customer wait times. Research shows that banks with extensive branch networks are more likely to capture a larger share of the market, as they can offer localized services tailored to the specific needs of different communities. However, challenges such as high capital expenditure, integration with legacy systems, and operational inefficiencies in remote areas remain prevalent, potentially limiting the strategy’s overall effectiveness (Ifeoma, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although Union Bank of Nigeria has expanded its branch network to capture a larger market share, several challenges impede its full effectiveness. High infrastructure and maintenance costs in remote areas may limit the number of branches the bank can sustain, thereby constraining market penetration (Adebayo, 2023). Furthermore, integrating new branches with existing legacy systems poses operational challenges that can lead to inconsistent service quality. Inadequate local market knowledge and variations in regional customer preferences may also result in suboptimal service delivery, affecting the bank’s ability to attract and retain customers (Chinonso, 2024).
Additionally, there is a challenge in aligning branch expansion strategies with the bank’s overall digital transformation efforts. Without seamless integration between physical branches and digital services, the bank risks losing competitive advantage, particularly in a market where digital banking is rapidly growing. These challenges highlight the need for a comprehensive evaluation of branch network expansion initiatives and their impact on market share. Understanding these issues is crucial for developing strategies that optimize branch performance, ensure operational consistency, and ultimately increase market share.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on branch network expansion initiatives at Union Bank of Nigeria and their effect on market share. Limitations include high capital requirements, regional service variability, and integration issues.
Definitions of Terms
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