WBBS meaning in Academic & Science ?

West Bromwich Permanent Building Society was formed in 1849 and remained a very local society for over a 100 years, only adding a few local branches in the 1930s.

The appointment of Frank Dilkes as Managing Director in 1965 led to substantial regional expansion and within little more than a decade there were 67 branches. Later financial expansion through extended use of wholesale funds, and lending on commercial property meant that the Society became over-extended; losses were incurred, its credit rating was downgraded and in 2009 there was speculation about its future.

A back to basics programme saw a reduction in wholesale funding, a gradual withdrawal from commercial property lending, and a reduction in its cost base. Operating out of 36 branches, with 95% of its lending for home ownership, the Society is now soundly bsed and 7th by size in the industry.