"The studio branch reflects our continued efforts to address the changing needs of our customer base," said Paul Dilda, Head, North American Branch Channel, BMO Bank of Montreal. "Part of providing a great customer experience is connecting with customers where they live and play. In this case, the smaller studio branch is fully integrated within a residential and office development right where customers have told us they want to do their banking."

Mr. Dilda added that the smaller studio branch will employ four BMO bankers that will be able to provide both sales and service expertise depending on the needs of the customer. He noted that BMO will consider expanding the concept into additional urban markets in North America, including Toronto and Chicago.

The studio branch model is being test-marketed in Quebec where BMO has made significant investments in recent years, including the opening of six new branches in 2012.

The new Île-des-Sœurs - Pointe-Nord branch offers customers extended banking hours, including Saturdays, and is designed to provide a great banking experience through a variety of financial services and conveniences. Features include:

Open Banker Workstations: The traditional enclosed office spaces have been replaced with an open layout to allow customers greater visibility and access to branch staff.
Shared Customer Meeting Spaces: The studio branches include new customer meeting spaces that allow for more comfortable, collaborative and private conversations between customers and BMO staff.
Central Location: The new branch is conveniently located on the ground floor of the ZUNI condo building - home to 165 units.
Customer Connectivity: BMO WiFi network provides free internet access for branch customers for either their banking or other personal needs.
Additionally, the branch will provide a 24-hour ATM, services provided in five different languages and barrier-free access.

"We are committed to providing a great customer expstomer experience across all of our banking platforms, including our online, mobile and in-person banking services," said Michel Jarry, Vice President, Personal Banking, BMO Bank of Montreal. "The branch's unique location, layout and extended banking hours will make it easier for our customers to come in and speak with our team about all of their financial needs."