A True Community Bank
By Rebecca Holland
By Rebecca Holland
When Evergreen Bank Group opened its doors in Hinsdale on October 24, it did so in a way unique to banks around the country.
“As other banks are looking to go smaller, with fewer locations, and are becoming less personal, we’re opening a bank that’s bigger and more comfortable than what you see nowadays. A true community bank,” says Darin Campbell, President and CEO.
The “Evergreen Experience,” as the bank calls it, brings people together. The new location features a full coffee lounge, tables with iPads for banking or for kids to play games, a community events board, and even a shoe shine chair with free shoe shines for customers on certain days of the week. The space is open and inviting, with a large barn door serving as the entrance to the boardroom, and lots of big windows and beautiful marble floors. And of course, bankers are on hand for any service.
While the bank is going back to the basics with customer service and in-person banking, it still features the latest in banking technology, including mobile banking and interactive touch screen boards.
“We want the traditional aspect of banking, where people can have a coffee and hang out if they have time, but also the latest and greatest in technology for those on a time crunch, or who prefer to bank from home,” Campbell says.
To accommodate more in-person clients, the bank is bringing on a full retail and commercial staff to help with both business and individual banking needs.
“Bigger banks are thinking about the bottom line, and of course we are too, but at the end of the day we’re about community, and can bring the best of both worlds,” Campbell says. “Sometimes it’s more convenient to do things in an app, but it’s also nice to see a banker, sit somewhere comfortable, and talk to them and ask questions.”
The bank, which is the third for Evergreen Bank Group, is located right downtown at 1 Grant Square, where Campbell thinks a personal touch will be especially appreciated. Customers can pop in to check out the community events board, learn more about banking services, or even meet a friend for a cup of coffee in the “Evergreen Coffee Lounge.”
They can also stop in to test their golf swing. Evergreen Bank Group is the only bank around to have a working golf simulator in one of the old vaults, where new customers can get a free, 15-30 minute swing analysis.
“We really want to be the coolest bank ever, and be a true community bank that offers something for everyone,” Campbell says. “Community is more than just what we can offer though, and that’s why it’s really important for me, as a Hinsdale resident myself, that we give back.”
Evergreen Bank Group sponsors and donates both time and service hours to several local charities, including food pantries such as HCS Family Services. The bank is currently expanding its involvement with HCS, in conjunction with the Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club.
The bank has had proven success in Oak Brook and Evergreen Park, and Campbell is excited to open in the neighborhood he resides.
“It’s all about the community experience, and I can’t wait for all the Hinsdale businesses and residents to get a chance to visit the branch and see that we mean that,” he says.
Evergreen Bank Group is located at 1 Grant Square in Hinsdale, 630-590-4800, evergreenbankgroup.com.
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