1989 Arrival
Bank of Scotland (Ireland) is established. It doesn't gain traction in the Irish market until the late 1990s, when it makes a series of acquisitions – such as the ICC Bank integration – and establishes a reputation as an alternative lender for small businesses.
2001 Tracker Mortgages
The bank introduces the concept of tracker mortgages and also spearheaded the arrival on the Irish market of personal finance products such as interest-only mortgages and equity release loans. In February 2003, Harry Slowey, executive director, and Mark Duffy, chief executive, (above) announced pretax profits, excluding exceptional items, of €115.7 million, up 84 per cent on equivalent profits a year earlier.
2001-2007
From 2001 to 2007 the Bank of Scotland sponsored Leinster rugby team. During those years the team secured the Celtic League (now Magners League) title.
2005
In March the bank announced a €120 million deal to buy 52 ESB shops and the loan book from its white goods finance business.
2010 Job Losses
After months of rumours about its future in the Irish market, the bank announces it will close the Halifax retail banking business, including its 44 retail branches and customer service centre in Dundalk.
2006 Halifax Rebranding
The bank rebrands its retail business to Halifax. This is what the “H” stood for in its UK parent, HBOS.
