Hopewell gets banking services

Residents and business operators in Hopewell, Hanover, have welcomed the opening of a GraceKennedy Money Services branch to support the expanding commercial district.

GK One Financial Centre is the first such banking facility to take its services to the popular community. It houses First Global Bank, Bill Express, Western Union and GK Proxim - a microfinance agency; GraceKennedy General Insurance and FX Trader.

"It is good for our town," said businessman Oral Bennett. "One won't have to go to Montego Bay or Lucea anymore, we now have our own."

Gail Reynolds, a hotel worker, was equally elated. "Everybody knows what Grace brings to the table. It gives our town a lift and the convenience it provides is without question."

Dave DaCosta, head of digital marketing and communications at First Global Bank, said Hopewell was chosen primarily due to its central location.

"We are going larger," he said, during the launch. "We plan to open 16 locations islandwide by the end of 2018.

"We want to reach every Jamaican in the remote communities, giving them access to commercial banking services and other financial products within a 30- to 60-minute radius."