Santander bought Abbey in 2004 , Bradford & Bingley , Alliance & Leicester in 2008 . Spanish banking group expected to rename around 1,000 bank branches across UK by end of January . Group CEO : ` The company has been a great partner for the government and we are delighted that they have decided to continue their support with our new name and brand.'
Santander bought Abbey in 2004 , Bradford & Bingley , Alliance & Leicester in 2008 . Spanish banking group expected to rename around 1,000 bank branches across UK by end of January . Group CEO : `` Decision to become Santander will put us in an even stronger position the UK ''