Nickel and bpost join forces to create Belgium’s first current account network 

In an era of rapidly evolving banking habits and shrinking traditional branch networks, Nickel and bpost are announcing a strategic partnership driven by a shared ambition: to provide everyone in Belgium with straightforward, rapid and personalised access to banking services.  

This collaboration, initially concluded until 31 December 2029, is based on powerful synergies: accessibility, proximity and advisory expertise in post offices, and Nickel’s simplicity and universality. This enables anyone to open a current account in real time, without an overdraft limit, in just five minutes. 

By combining bpost’s territorial coverage with Nickel’s solution, this partnership redefines access to banking services. It will be possible to open a Nickel account, as well as deposit and withdraw cash, in all bpost branches, in both towns and rural areas. These additional outlets complement an existing strong network of over 500 local shops, including independent newsagents, and other Nickel-approved partners. 

Thanks to this unique proximity model, Nickel is now the leading distribution network for current accounts in Belgium, with over 1,100 points of sale. 

Belgium’s leading distribution network for current accounts 

“Most banks are reducing their networks and closing branches. We are taking the opposite approach: by joining forces with bpost and their 656 branches, Nickel’s coverage has risen to more than 1,100 points of sale. Our ambition was to become Belgium’s leading network for current accounts by 2027, but we have already achieved this goal! The strength of this new partnership lies in the simplicity of the solution, the human proximity at street-corner level and the expertise of bpost’s agents,” explained Emmanuel Legras, Head of Nickel Belgium. 

“One of our strengths is our close human connection via workers who are specially trained in these products and services and recognised as trusted figures in local communities. By providing a personalised and welcoming service, they promote financial inclusion. As we transform our post offices into customer-centred multiservice hubs, we remain true to what defines us :  trust, proximity and service. This initiative perfectly fits that vision, creating new revenue streams that build on our existing expertise while contributing to greater financial inclusion in society”, said Tina Hernalsteen, Retail & Banking Director at bpost. 

A unique partnership serving everyone 

Already present in five European countries, Nickel – a subsidiary of BNP Paribas – has over 4.7 million active accounts and a network of more than 12,000 outlets. 

The reasons for this success are clear: a payment account that is accessible to all, with no overdraft or income conditions, and which comes with a Mastercard^® debit card and a local IBAN number. This account is usable everywhere and costs just €25 per year. In Belgium, the solution has been widely adopted, particularly among 24- to 44-year-olds. Its universal model, which accepts 190 different types of passport, also appeals to workers, students, the self-employed, and frequent travellers. 

The Nickel Standard card will succeed bpaid 

With the arrival of the Nickel offer in the bpost network, the ‘Nickel Standard’ payment card will replace the bpaid prepaid card. Affordable and easy to use, the Nickel Standard card makes it simple to make and receive payments. It is ideal for everyday spending and can also be used as a secondary or secure account for online purchases. The spirit of bpaid is preserved, with expanded features for customers’ benefit. For example, former bpaid cardholders will enjoy exclusive benefits, such as the reimbursement of the first annual fee (€25) and a €5 welcome bonus. 

This complements the financial services already available at bpost, such as cash withdrawals and deposits at counters, BNP Paribas Fortis’s Easy Go banking offer, an extensive ATM network, and money transfers via Ria Money Transfer. This further strengthens bpost’s role as a local player in financial inclusion in Belgium. 

Supporting customers  

bpaid customers will be gradually informed about the transition process. A dedicated information and support system will be implemented to facilitate a seamless transition to the Nickel Standard card, both in post offices and via the usual channels. 

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• press.relations@bpost.be
• bpost.be

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About Nickel 

Nickel offers a current account open to everyone, with no income, deposit or asset requirements, and no overdraft or credit facility. The account can be opened in five minutes at a newsagent, a Nickel partner point or within the bpost network. For €25 per year, customers receive an international Mastercard^®, a personalised Belgian IBAN, and tools to track their transactions in real time via the web, mobile or SMS. To date, more than 4.7 million Nickel accounts have been opened through a distribution network of over 12,000 partner outlets across Europe.