FNB passes 175 year mark

Deeply rooted in the country's history, this most innovative bank commemorates this special occasion at its headquarters in the Johannesburg city centre.

To mark this special occasion, it has revamped its precinct and created its own Central Park, complete with a peaceful and tranquil 'green area', surrounded by African stinkwood trees and spring flowers. This space showcases the vibrancy and life that the city has to offer.

"Today's celebrations capture our vision - to be a great business, helping to create a better world. We continue to respond to the changing needs of our customers and we strive to be a dynamic, innovative and values-driven organisation so that no matter how old we are in years, we remain young in spirit, relevant and effective in growing our economy and contributing to sustainable communities and environments," says Jacques Celliers, FNB CEO designate.

The MEC of Economic Development, Moxolisi Xayiya participated in the celebrations held late last week. In his keynote address, he congratulated the bank for its vision and investment into the future of the inner city and its continued drive to play a key role in the revival and rejuvenation of the city.

3-D pavement art commemorates event

To commemorate this anniversary, renowned 3D pavement art artist, Kurt Wenner will showcase his portrayal of a "sanctuary in the city". Surrounded by vibrant and bustling city life, this 3-D art illusion will capture the tranquillity and essence of this city at its very best. With an international following, Wenner is best known as the founding father of 3D pavement art and has inspired artists to take up and explore the same technique.

The project of building the FNB BankCity precinct began in October 1987, when the bank's board gave approval to exercise options to purchase sites on seven city blocks in the north-western CBD of Johannesburg.

"Today, the head office in the Johannesburg inner city is home to some 7200 employees, reflecting our growth and potential of where it is headed. The nature of banking has changed and, whilst we are at the forefront of innovation, we continue to look at ways that will create a demand for our banking services for all our customers," concludes Celliers.