Bank of America is opening five technology-packed mini-branches as it seeks to bridge the gap between real-world and digital services.
During normal business hours, the 'express' centres will operate as typical branches, with staff on hand to help customers and to offer advice on using online and mobile services.
The branches will also house 'Teller Assist' ATMs, enabling customers to talk to bank staff based in call centres via a video link in the early morning, evening and at weekends.
BofA has been closing hundreds of branches across the US over the last couple of years, and plans to continue to do so as it seeks to slash costs and take advantage of customers embracing digital services.
In bidding to provide a halfway house for customers who still want a physical presence it is following in the footsteps of Wells Fargo, which is also rolling out mini branches, and PNC, which is trialling pop-up centres.
The first BofA express centre has already opened in Manhattan, with sites on Boston, Charlotte and the metro New York area to follow later in the year. More could follow next year, depending on customer feedback.
Rob Aulebach, retail distribution planning and execution executive, BofA, says: "Consumers empowered by online and mobile technology have been a driving force behind dramatic changes in banking, but they still value the personal attention when they walk into our banking centres."