Wales’ largest building society – The Principality – is celebrating its 165th year birthday in style after announcing its commitment to maintaining its high street and community presence until at least the end of 2030.

Announced as part of the organisation’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) last week, Principality confirmed its intention to  extend its commitment to the communities it serves, recognising the importance of a high-street presence, access to cash and in-person services. 

First established in Cardiff in 1860, Principality continues to provide a community cornerstone with over 50 branches and 14 agencies across Wales and its borders, partnering with charities and funding affordable home initiatives along with its financial services.  Pembrokeshire is served with two branches based in Fishguard and Haverfordwest.

Principality’s own research reveals more than 70% of people agree that branch presence is a key factor in deciding which financial provider to choose. This comes against a backdrop of branch closure announcements from providers across the UK and wider markets.

“All our branches have played an integral role in supporting their local communities, and today’s announcement means that our members can continue to access essential in-person services for years to come as we maintain our presence in the community,” commented Vicky Wales,who is the chief customer officer at Principality Building Society.

Principality’s continued commitment to local communities is further demonstrated by its recent partnership with shared banking innovator OneBanx to bring cash services to rural areas affected by bank closures. 

“As more financial institutions announce branch closures, we remain focused on supporting our members and the local community with vital financial services,” said Kelly Young, who is head of customer services savings.

“We know that access to cash and our extensive branch presence enables us to provide the services that our members rely on.”

PEMBROKESHIRE’S Nestlé bottling plant was given the once over by local MP Henry Tufnell this week when he visited the Waters & Premium Beverages bottling site in Princes Gate near Narberth.

The visit marked Tufnell’s first visit to the factory since his appointment as MP for Mid and South Pembrokeshire in July, 2024.

He met factory manager Matthew Faulkner, and engaged with staff, learning about the company’s commitment to stewarding water resources and helping to regenerate local water cycles.  He also learned about the plant’s operations, sustainability initiatives and its on-going commitment to local employment.

“It was a pleasure to welcome Mr Tufnell to our factory,” commented Matthew Faulkner, “as his visit provided a wonderful opportunity to introduce our team and showcase our factory and what we do.

“We take pride in being part of the local community and are committed to supporting local initiatives and helping create a positive water impact locally.”

The workforce at the bottling site consists of more than 120 employees, including specialists in production, warehouse operations, quality, safety, and water management, with the majority residing within a 20-mile radius of the factory.

A CARMARTHENSHIRE business has this week been announced as a finalist for the Wales Business Awards 2025 by Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid.

Businesses of all sizes and from all sectors across Wales entered to be in with a chance of winning a prestigious accolade, with 50 companies named as finalists across 12 categories.

Whitland-based consultancy Landsker Business Solutions has secured a spot on the shortlist for Professional Services Firm of the Year.

The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony, hosted by broadcaster Andrea Byrne and sponsored by Bevan Buckland LLP, on 12 June at Holland House Hotel, Cardiff. One finalist will also be awarded ‘Wales Business of the Year’ during the ceremony.

Gus Williams, interim CEO of Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said: “The Wales Business Awards are an exciting showcase for the successes and achievements of the very best of Welsh business. We were thrilled to have received hundreds of fantastic entries this year, highlighting the innovation, creativity and ambitions of companies across the country.

“We are looking forward to celebrating our incredible finalists at our ceremony in June, together with members of the Welsh business community, distinguished dignitaries and ministers including Secretary of State for Wales, the Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP.”