The news comes at a time when Which? reports that the UK has lost almost two thirds of its bank branches in the last 30 years. 1 Coventry Building Society is bucking the trend with a substantial investment to create a more spacious, relaxed and friendly feel to its branches.

The human touch is at the heart of the new look, with greater interaction between employees and members one of the main objectives. The design has been rolled out in seven of its branches including Leicester city-centre and Birmingham’s Corporation Street, with other branches to follow in the coming months and years ahead.

Mark Parsons, Coventry Building Society’s Chief Executive Officer, said: “Whilst other banks and building societies are closing branches at an alarming rate, we’re investing heavily in our network. Our multimillion-pound investment will ensure that we continue to meet the needs of our members and the local communities in which we serve. “However, rest assured, our focus for our 70-strong network will continue to be people, with technology there to help provide the human touch, not replace it. Branches matter to savers, and we want to encourage more people to save more for their futures by continuing to offer great value over the long term.”

The new look branch has been designed in partnership with design specialists, Allen International, part of the Accenture Group.
James White, Design Director of Allen International, said: “The success of any partnership stems from the client clearly articulating the desire for change, and then working together to define a differentiating but appropriate design. It has been very clear from the start that
the CBS team have a natural understanding of who they are, the needs of their members and the important role their staff play in the communities they serve.

It has been a real pleasure to help shape a new experience that showcases the Society’s warmth of service, the care it shows both colleagues and members, and a design that creates a welcoming and relaxing environment.”