A US credit union has packed an "inspiration branch" with stage set-style replicas of aspirational locations designed to help members visualise their dreams and goals.
Visitors to Summit Credit Union's branch in Fitchburg, Wisconsin walk through a series of 3-D visualisations of scenarios which aim to provide inspiration for things such as buying a house, taking a vacation or going to university.
Among the sets are a segment of a home, featuring a breakfast nook and girl's bedroom; a snapshot of the Shambles, a historic street in York, England; a replica of Bascom Hall, University of Wisconsin's emblem for higher learning; and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
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The façades - built by contractors and theatre professionals - are completely removable, like a stage set, and do not affect the structure of the branch. While the credit union has ditched traditional teller lines, it says that a full range of services will be offered at the site.
Members can meet with Summit advisers in casual, open areas, such as an English pub setting, complete with chairs from a real British boozer.
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For more private meetings they can make their way to a aeroplane, complete with flight simulator to keep children entertained.
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Kim Sponem, CEO, Summit Credit Union, says: When we are young, we dream big dreams and sometimes, as we age, they fall by the wayside of our busy lives. We have re-imagined what's possible to support our members' financial wellness. In a dramatic, cost-effective and innovative way, we've brought dreams to life in our new Inspiration Branch to remind people of their dreams and to energize and inspire action."
Credit Union Magazine visited the branch earlier this year:
Hat-tip: The Financial Brand