Nestled among the trees and located 25 miles NW of Charleston, Bayer Heritage Federal Credit Union laid roots for their newest branch in Summerville, SC. The Bayer Heritage FCU team was looking to attract new potential members in a community with a younger demographic and found the up-and-coming Nexton development the perfect place to expand. Nexton was planned as a beacon of health and wellness with miles of bike and walking trails connecting many areas of the community. New homes, schools and other amenities make this a destination community for those working in Downtown Charleston.
The Tellerless Model
With a younger, on-the-move member in mind, the Bayer Heritage team envisioned a technology-focused retail atmosphere with a variety of self-service options. They turned to La Macchia Group to make it happen.
As a solutions-oriented partner, La Macchia Group helped Bayer Heritage implement three Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs), one in the drive-thru and two in the branch. Considering the surrounding younger and tech-savvier audience, this was important.
When a member walks into the branch, they're immediately greeted by the branch receptionist at the welcome desk. From there, the member has a variety of activities they could engage in with the help of a universal employee. Universal employees at Bayer Heritage Federal Credit Union are there to support members with whatever they need including education on products and services, help with using the ITM, and much more.
Check out Bayer Heritage Federal Credit Union's Zanesville branch location with a similar model.
Not Your Average Branch
To connect with members’ outdoor lifestyle, La Macchia Group added amenities to the exterior of the building for those traveling on the bike trail behind the branch, including a water bottle filling station, bike repair station and a bike rack. A large patio covered by a wood pergola serves as a member meeting space, complete with charging stations, lighting, fans and speakers.
Within the expansive lobby there are an abundance of windows to bring the outside in. Glulam wood beams and a roof overhang were incorporated to mimic the tall tree canopies. But the branch is more than an ode to wood and sunlight. High-tech integration for member interaction and education includes a 20-foot wide LED screen utilized to set a mood, establish a connection and encourage engagement with staff. To further connect with members, the mission and vision statement is placed on the walls facing the front door and their values are posted as members walk through the space.
With a deep understanding of the Bayer Heritage brand, this is the first branch in a growing partnership with La Macchia Group.
