,
Speculation is rife (at least it is in the Derby Daily Telegraph), over the future of
Messrs Austin and Co., Grocers. A
new Branch of Martins Bank is to be built on the site, and no expense will
be spared. A five floor building with every possible modern banking
convenience will transform Martins’ presence in Derby. A further feature in the same issue,
heralds the arrival of the Bank as good for business, and wonders what the
new branch will look like.
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A temporary Branch, at No 3 Market Place opens in
December 1936, and builds up the Bank’s business in Derby for the next
eight months. In August 1937 the new branch is ready for occupation, and 5
Market Place opens for business. In
later years Derby will be home to the Midland District Machine School, set
up and run by our good friend Iris Brooks.
The Southward expansion of Martins Bank is crucial to its dreams of
becoming a truly national Bank. The Midlands is first on the list, and from
the mid 1930s a number of Branches in key Midland towns and cities are
opened. In the War years the expansion continues with the focus on London
and the South. By the 1950s more Branches will also have been added in the
North and South of Wales.
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In Service: 14
December 1936 until 14 August 1937
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