Zürcher Kantonalbank x Dalziel & Pow

We are on a journey of collaboration with Zürcher Kantonalbank to reimagine the ‘Banking Experience for a new era’.

We developed a new strategic vision in response to evolving customer needs and aspirations, the exponential growth of digital platforms and tools, and the changing attitudes towards traditional advertising and marketing channels. The vision is to inspire personal progress and financial wellbeing, helping people feel inspired and motivated about their future – from saving and investing, to progressing in life, work and business. Here customers can access instant banking, recharge and refocus, and even kick-start their big idea.

As a key part of this vision, we developed a new concept for their branches. The solution helps make the transition from purely transactional branches that help customers with banking-only services, to a versatile space for personal progress and financial wellbeing by bringing together the benefits of physical, digital and human experience.

The first iteration of this vision is a compact ‘on-the-go’ format, launched in the Stettbach train station outside Zurich. It’s a ‘test and learn’ pilot as the bank continues to evolve its proposition and range of services to address changing customer needs. This concept differs significantly from the bank's existing locations.

The pilot in Stettbach consists of a new range of services with interactive advice tools, free workshops on digital channels and coffee-to-go. There will be planned events such as free workshops called "Hallo Digital" on topics such as eBanking, advice for SMEs and tips on how to protect yourself against cybercrime. The new design concept tests a new direction, purpose and services for the brand’s portfolio of spaces.

The design is flexible, open and welcoming. A large communal table brings a sense of togetherness and supports many types of conversations and sessions. Materials are warm and tactile, bringing a human feel not usually associated with the banking sector.

For Zürcher Kantonalbank, Stettbach is a first step. "We are already working on the next big step: the further development of a large branch at a central location," says Peter Luginbühl, Head of Private Banking Market Area. And accordingly, Stettbach will be a test for a number of innovations as for a larger, more comprehensive concept that is currently in development.

Paul West, Strategy & Transformation Director at Dalziel & Pow added, “We firmly believe that any brand, regardless of category or sector, that helps people on their journey, will thrive in the new era. It applies just as much to banking, as say, getting fit. We set ourselves the challenge at the very start of this collaboration; if a brand like Nike can engage people in running, we can – with the same creativity and innovation – help a progressive bank engage people in their money and their future. We’re very excited to see this vision becoming a reality with Zürcher Kantonalbank”.