On November 1st, the Desjardins Caisse of Vaudreuil-Soulanges announced the closure of its three automated service centers in the Vaudreuil-Soulanges area, as well as the closure of the Saint-Lazare Service Center. These closures will take effect on November 24.

This decision is driven by changing habits among Desjardins members and the need to align service offerings with current demands. Notably, the first automated service center closure, in Saint-Polycarpe, was announced in December 2023.

“After reviewing figures showing a drastic decline in transactions at our Automated Service Centers, the Desjardins Vaudreuil-Soulanges Board decided to close the centers in Les Cèdres, Saint-Clet, and Les Coteaux,” confirmed Richard Dubois, Director of Communications and Community Life at Desjardins Vaudreuil-Soulanges, in a statement to Néomédia.

In communications sent to the affected municipalities, Desjardins explained that members' transaction habits have evolved significantly in recent years. To “remain competitive and continue meeting the constantly changing needs of members, the Caisse must adapt its service offerings accordingly.”

“We recognize that this decision will require some members of our community to adjust their habits. That’s why we aim to offer workshops on using our digital platform through regional organizations. Our members ask us to stay at the forefront of technology, but we are committed to supporting all members. Financial education is not only for a segment of the population,” added Mr. Dubois.

Closure of the Saint-Lazare Service Center and Transformation of Harwood

Starting November 24, Desjardins members accustomed to using the Saint-Lazare Service Center will now need to go to centers in Vaudreuil-Dorion, L’Île-Perrot, Rigaud, Saint-Zotique, or Coteau-du-Lac.

“Unfortunately, we had to accept that traffic at the Saint-Lazare Service Center was insufficient to justify continuing its operations,” continued Mr. Dubois.

Finally, the Harwood Service Center in Vaudreuil-Dorion will be converted into an advisory service center, retaining ATMs but discontinuing cashier services.

“Harwood was one of the centers most impacted by the pandemic. Then we started extensive renovations. During the work, we encouraged members to visit our other locations. People developed new habits, and now, with traffic congestion in the area, people are more reluctant to go there,” explained the Director of Communications and Community Life.

Job Security and Member Support

Despite these changes, Richard Dubois is reassuring. “It is very important to mention, as our General Manager Sébastien Laliberté clearly conveyed to employees in Saint-Lazare and Vaudreuil-Dorion, that all jobs are secure. All staff at the Saint-Lazare and Harwood Service Centers will be relocated based on their preferences,” he confirmed.

A dedicated helpline is available for Desjardins members seeking additional assistance with this transition. Members can reach an agent at 450-455-7907, extension 7592003. The Caisse will also offer a digital solutions workshop for community organizations