BZ WBK is Now Santander

The second week of September was significant for numerous account holders from BZ WBK (Bank Zachodni), one of the biggest commercial banks in Poland. The 8^th and 9^th day of the month was chosen as the starting point of one of the most challenging tasks a bank, or any big enterprise for that matter, may confront a rebranding operation. BZ WBK is no more. Welcome Santander Bank Polska.

Bank Zachodni WBK has been a member of the Spanish Santander Group for 7 years, but up until now the bank still had its original brand and green colors. This September, it’s time for a change. It will mostly concern the name of the bank and its logo, as well as its registered office address. Some of the bank’s products and services will change their names. The web address of BZ WBK will redirect to the new domain: Santander.pl.

The Importance of BZ WBK in Poland:

The clients of the bank do not need to worry. From the point of view of an average bank customer, not much will be different, apart from the visuals. The account numbers stayed the same. So are online banking usernames and passwords, although the login page looks different. Even bank cards will still remain in use, even though they bear the name “Bank Zachodni WBK”. They will be replaced gradually, as their expiry dates arrive. As a novelty, the bank will introduce Fitbit Pay. Also, mobile and online banking will be simplified.

The rebranding operation is to cost a whopping 70 million PLN (equivalent to 16.3 million EUR). Bank Zachodni WBK (now Santander Bank) is the third-largest bank in the Polish market. Michał Gajewski, the President of the Management Board, rebranding is an occasion to strengthen the market position in a more and more digital, fast-changing world. The bank will now be able to offer new, innovative solutions, which will allow the clients to manage their personal finances even more easily.

Implications for Banking and Business

Developments in the Polish banking sector affect businesses operating in the country in several ways. Access to corporate banking services, credit availability, deposit rates, and payment infrastructure are all critical factors for companies — whether established Polish firms or foreign-owned entities entering the market.

For foreign entrepreneurs setting up operations in Poland, choosing the right banking partner is a strategic decision. Major Polish banks including mBank, ING Bank Śląski, Bank Millennium, PKO BP, and Santander Poland offer varying levels of service for international clients, including English-language online banking, multicurrency accounts, and dedicated relationship managers for corporate clients.

The Polish banking market is well-regulated by the KNF (Financial Supervision Authority) and participates in the EU deposit guarantee scheme (BFG — Bank Guarantee Fund), providing deposit protection up to EUR 100,000 per depositor per institution. This regulatory framework provides stability and confidence for businesses maintaining corporate funds in Polish banks.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our VAT and tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.