Wauna Credit Union Opens New Branch in Forest Grove

Forest Grove, Ore., December 19,  2019 – Area financial cooperative, Wauna Credit Union (WCU) is opening the doors to its newest branch this month, nestled in the heart of Washington County in Forest Grove, Oregon at the corner of Pacific Avenue and Highway 47.

The $260 million credit union is redefining their retail strategy by building new and remodeling existing branches, which boast the latest technology, open design concept, and more relaxed and inviting service spaces. The branch embraces modern fixtures, hardwood flooring, bright and colorful design, and digitial innovation. 

“Change is important because the way people do business now is significantly different than even a year ago,” said WCU Chief Marketing Officer, Debi Smiley. “We realize that we have to make decisions for the banking of tomorrow, so we are not building for now, we are building for the future,” she said.

Branch exterior
The brand new building captures the spirit of the community

Additionally, WCU continues to work with their partners by implementing a relationship building training program, ensuring front-line staff understands how to interact with members regarding the new strategy. WCU has coined the training program, the “Wauna Way” and will be implementing a relationship building service approach in all 9 branches throughout their footprint.

“Bringing cooperative financial services to a new community, with new oppertunities to change peoples’ lives, is what excites us most,” said WCU Forest Grove Member Services Manager, Nick Hellmich.

Branch interior
The branch boasts the latest technology, open design concept, and more relaxed and inviting service spaces.

“The technology, our Wauna Way, and the awesome staff here will only serve to bring great things to Forest Grove and the surrounding areas,” added Hellmich.

One of the tech features includes a core-integrated, self-service kiosk station, which WCU has named “The Discovery Bar.” The Discovery Bar hosts three, touch screen digital displays, combining self-service, assisted-service, and full-service capabilities all into one solution. The technology further assists frontline by focusing on consultative conversations rather than strictly transactional. The branch also incorporates two Video Teller Units on premise, instead of the conventional teller window drive-up.

WCU will host a grand opening extravaganza on January 30th, 2020. The event will showcase the many features of the new branch, as well as a myriad of activities and treats for the Forest Grove community.