As competition for deposits intensifies, a number of banks are trying to capture customers’ attention by revamping their buildings to look more like coffeehouses and retail boutiques, and less like the stodgy brick-and-mortar operations of old. The new designs stress more open spaces and softer lines to create a less-formal environment, and more common areas and activities to encourage people to linger longer — and get them to shop for more banking products.
NC Financial Services Group Inc.’s PNC Bank is unveiling more than 40 newly designed branches this year that feature amenities such as Internet cafes and coffee bars.
Umpqua Bank customers often stop by the local branch to print out business documents using the bank’s computers or to have a cup of coffee.
Wall Street Journal
