Western Union, a leader in the cross-border money movement, continues to expand its network of concept stores in the United Kingdom and Europe, having now inaugurated 100 locations in total. This forms part of the company’s global retail strategy, aiming to offer customers enhanced service and, ultimately, enable them to enjoy an omni-channel experience.

The network represents an investment by Western Union in its retail presence in the UK while supporting local micro-entrepreneurs and financial inclusion in migrant communities. The UK is one of the first markets where the network expanded; other countries include Spain, Italy, Germany, France, and others. The company has plans to significantly expand the number of stores and hubs across Europe through 2025.

Concept stores represent a new retail offering, where customers can not only make international money transfers but also benefit from premium brand experience and level of service. Graham Baker, Head of the UK, Ireland, and the Nordics, explained: “I am greatly pleased that more and more of Western Union’s concept stores appear across the UK’s streets. This is a vote of confidence in the nation’s retail sector, which has been challenged significantly since the pandemic.”

“This network is a new way for us to re-invent and evolve our retail presence, by putting our customers, and their needs, at the very centre of our work. At the same time, it provides an opportunity to trial new products and services, as we aim to become a one-stop shop for all our customers’ financial needs,” continued Graham.

Investment in micro-entrepreneurship and financial inclusion

With the new network of concept stores, the company recognizes the loyalty of long-standing partners by offering them the possibility of opening these exclusive Western Union locations, where the company offers faster, easier, and simpler access to its services.

This relationship represents a tangible investment in micro-entrepreneurship, as well as financial inclusion, allowing these retail entrepreneurs to have a new, elevated role in their communities, usually comprised of migrants, and expand their business. Concept store partners enjoy an enhanced relationship with Western Union and additional support.