Cash supply in danger: Sparkasse closes important locations!

Cash supply in danger: Sparkasse closes important locations!

In the last few days, a lot has happened in the region around Celle, Gifhorn and Wolfsburg when it comes to cash supplies. On June 12, 2025, representatives from Beedenbostel, Bröckel and Hohne presented comprehensive resolutions to Stefan Gratzfeld and Tim Faß from Sparkasse Celle-Gifhorn-Wolfsburg. The core of this initiative: the preservation of local self-service locations, which are indispensable for many citizens. That's what she reports Celle press that the demands are not only based on personal conviction, but are also supported by signatures.

The resolutions primarily address the fear that rural areas will become less dependent without an adequate cash supply. A concern that is not unfounded these days, when cash is still very popular. Despite the increasing popularity of card payments, there are numerous scenarios where people rely on cash. This is what a report describes Celler newspaper that even everyday situations, such as having lunch together, can turn into panic if card payment is suddenly not possible. This shows that the availability of cash often remains essential, even for small amounts.

Cash supply in rural areas

However, Gratzfeld and Faß had to disappoint the delegation. Despite the open dialogue that Gratzfeld considers essential, one thing is certain: the planned closures will not be reversed. The Sparkasse's entire board of directors informed about the changes in the self-service branch network in mid-May. The decisions are based on continuous analysis of usage patterns and security factors, which are becoming increasingly important in today's digitalized world.

Nevertheless, the public mandate to provide cash is highly questioned. “We have to make tough decisions,” explains Gratzfeld, “even if that can lead to customer reluctance.” In the next two years, the Sparkasse is also planning massive investments in the security of its self-service locations, which are expected to amount to over 40 million euros.

A life without cash?

Although the Sparkasse is investing in new branches, the question remains: Does life really work without cash? Many residents are concerned about the issue, as the loss of self-service locations could mean that people will be forced to rein in their financial transactions differently in the future. Local retail is also impacted, with many stores often only accepting cash. Users recently found out that only coins can be used at parking machines. Being tied to ATMs drains your time and patience.

The discussion about the cash supply in rural regions will continue to concern us. It is clear that society has to master a difficult balancing act between the digital future and traditional use of cash. The resolutions of the affected localities are a clear indicator that local people value the accessibility of their financial service providers as much as the security of their financial affairs.