Local customer-owned financial institution, Hunter United, opened its first new look branch in the redeveloped Stockland Green Hills Shopping Centre on March 22.

 

The credit union’s branch design invests heavily in digital technology but the focus is customer convenience and community according to CEO Tim Blomfield.

 

Gone is the traditional ATM and the tellers behind a glass wall at the back of the branch. Instead, is a new, first for the Hunter, Teller Infinity Machine affectionately known as “Tiff”. The machine allows customers to choose between self-service cash withdrawals and deposits as well as having staff to assist them if that is what they prefer.

 

“Our staff won’t hover if you don’t need them but we are there as soon as you push the staff assist button,” Mr Blomfield said.

Hunter United has used local building firm Collaborative Constructions and designer Holly&Co for the project. Mr Blomfeld said the branch will be warm and inviting to match Hunter United’s service. Staff are there to assist with the full range of banking but gone are the battery hen office cubicles. They’ve been replaced with a raised bench top as well as separate booths resembling the family kitchen table. For customers who prefer self-service banking, Apple, Android and Microsoft tablets will all be available for use.

 

In keeping with the family kitchen bench theme, a repurposed fridge door features prominently on the wall adjacent to the entrance. This can be used by any local business or community group to post information about upcoming events in the area.

At the front of the branch is a large bench seat with built-in phone charging facilities which is free for everyone, not just customers.