Absa – Branch of Tomorrow

ABSA, one of the leading banks in South Africa with a distribution network of 900 outlets and 12 million customers, appointed allen international to develop an innovative ‘Laboratory’ branch at Clearwater Mall in Johannesburg. ABSA wanted to use the branch as a test lab to develop innovative products and processes prior to rolling them out across the entire network.

The new “lab” branch will focus on prototype technology to create a more interactive environment for customers and to test new ways of banking. By creating different customer journeys for Exclusive Banking, Retail Consultants and high-traffic Transactional banking we were able to deliver a more customer centric branch concept.

The main banking space is then used for promotions, community engagement and showcasing the bank’s sponsorship activities. The branch also features innovations such as quick service enquiries, interactive touch-screens and digital communications on a 25-metre-long screen.

CUA – Branch of the Future (Part II)

Credit Union Australia (CUA), Australia’s largest customer owned financial institution, has opened its second concept branch in Victoria at Epping. The first iteration of this concept was constructed after CUA built a life-size prototype entirely out of cardboard so it could test the look and layout. The main feature is a giant photo wall where customers can post snapshots of themselves, what’s important to them, their local community and events. Photos can be taken and printed on-the-spot in the branch or sent online. The original prototype location includes roaming concierges and an herb wall.