Response to the Covid-19 crisis
In order to support the global effort being made to combat COVID-19, Grupo Santander is implementing various measures to protect our stakeholders.
COVID-19
The priority has been to protect their health in corporate buildings and branches, with selective opening, special opening hours and enhanced hygiene measures. We reached more than 110,000 employees working remotely. And we started to gradually return to the usual workplaces in some countries at the end of May, always following the recommendations of local governments, respecting the individual needs of each employee.
We are very close to our customers to help them, having supported more than 600,000 customers by providing liquidity through government programmes and more than 5 million with payment holidays programmes. We are continuously adapting the branch network, ensuring the continuity of service in the branch network. Currently, around 90% of our branches are open. In addition, we strengthened digital channels and contact centres.
Santander All. Together. Now. is the motto that brings together the Group's collective efforts around the world to stand beside the people who need it the most at this time. We have implemented actions and mobilised resources by more than EUR 100 million dedicated to solidarity initiatives together with governments and institutions.
We believe that the best way to support our shareholders is to prioritise the health and safety of our employees, to help customers and society and to ensure profitable business continuity.
As a result, Euromoney recognised the valuable support that Santander is providing to SMEs during the crisis and more generally with the Best Bank for SMEs in Western Europe and Latin America awards. Furthermore, the magazine’s editors acknowledged Santander as Best Bank in Spain and Portugal, and Best Investment Bank in Portugal.