Long-time customer says NCBJ’s investment signals confidence in the town’s future
Walking into National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited’s (NCBJ) newly relocated Falmouth branch, long-time customer Dennis Seivwright saw more than a modern banking facility.
He describes it as renewed confidence in the future of one of Jamaica’s oldest towns. A businessman, community advocate and long-standing NCBJ customer, Seivwright said his relationship with the bank stretches back decades. Today, as Director of SWV Investments in Duncans, Trelawny, he continues to rely on NCBJ to support his business but says it is the relationships built over the years that have kept him loyal.
“NCB became family,” he said. “In business, I’ve learnt that relationships matter. The managers knew their customers, understood the community, and treated people with respect. I only hope technology never replaces that personal touch.”
The new Falmouth branch, which opened to customers this week following an investment of more than US$1 million, replaces NCBJ’s previous location and was designed to provide a more comfortable, accessible and efficient banking experience.
Seivwright admits that banking at the previous location often came with frustrations, including limited parking, inadequate seating, and a lack of privacy.
His first visit to the new location immediately transformed that experience.
“What stood out to me first was that people can now wait comfortably. That is a big deal. There is even a public restroom now, which wasn’t available before. Those may seem like small things, but they show care and respect for Jamaican people.”
Executive Vice President of Retail Banking at NCBJ, Perrin Gayle, said the investment was driven by customer feedback and the bank’s long-term commitment to western Jamaica.
“Our goal was never simply to build a larger branch. Our customers told us they wanted a banking environment that was more comfortable, more accessible and better suited to how they bank today. We listened, and this new branch reflects that commitment while reinforcing our confidence in Falmouth’s continued growth and development.”For Seivwright, the significance extends well beyond banking.
“This investment says that Falmouth is alive,” he said. “It tells people this town is still worth investing in.”
Having spent years advocating for improvements to the historic town, Seivwright believes Falmouth possesses untapped potential as one of Jamaica’s most distinctive destinations.
“People should be able to walk and enjoy this historic town. Falmouth had running water before New York City. We have something very special here that needs to be preserved and celebrated.”
That optimism is shared by Carey Wallace, Executive Director, Tourism Enhancement Fund whose organisation has invested significantly in strengthening Falmouth’s tourism product through initiatives such as the Falmouth Artisan Village.
“Tourism succeeds when communities succeed,” Wallace noted. “Investments in modern financial services give entrepreneurs, residents, and businesses the confidence and tools they need to grow. When private sector organisations invest alongside public sector initiatives like the Artisan Village, they help create the kind of thriving local economy that benefits both visitors and the people who call Falmouth home.”
Seivwright believes NCBJ’s investment should encourage others to invest in the town’s future. “As this area grows, more businesses will come, and we’ll need additional parking and supporting infrastructure. NCB has made an important start, and I hope others will follow.”
For him, the new branch is tangible evidence that confidence in Falmouth continues to grow.
“If we continue investing in Falmouth, preserving its heritage and supporting its people, this town has an incredible future. Buildings matter, but it’s the people and the relationships inside them that make the real difference.”
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