In a significant leap towards enhancing the retail banking experience, First Bank, with a robust asset base of $6.6 billion, has inked a partnership with enterprise tech giant, NCR Corporation. This strategic move entails joining the expansive NCR’s Allpoint Network, further broadening avenues for customers to access and deposit cash seamlessly at reputable retail junctures nationwide.
First Bank, known for its distinctive geographic expanse that spans the greater St. Louis region, Illinois, and California, is now set to augment its customer outreach. By integrating into the Allpoint Network, which boasts an impressive global roster of more than 55,000 surcharge-free ATMs, First Bank solidifies its commitment to ensuring customers can access funds without being constrained by the proximity of its branches.
Taking branch modernization a notch higher, First Bank, in collaboration with NCR, will incorporate close to 200 state-of-the-art NCR Interactive Teller Machines (ITMs) within its operational sphere. This innovative inclusion will not only amplify the self-service banking dimension but also extend operational hours for select services. This pivotal transformation is tailored to heighten convenience and streamline operational efficiencies, keeping pace with the dynamic banking landscape.
Elucidating the bank’s strategic direction, Erin Erhart, the Director of Product Management at First Bank, remarked, “In a rapidly-evolving financial landscape, the essence of liquid cash remains paramount for our diverse customer base, ranging from university scholars to frequent travelers. The Allpoint Network’s extensive and fail-safe infrastructure empowers our customers to withdraw their funds sans any surcharges, irrespective of their location.” Further emphasizing the bank’s innovative streak, she added, “The introduction of Allpoint+ enriches our service portfolio, facilitating effortless cash transactions even in territories devoid of our physical branches. This strategic alignment with recognized retail brands furnishes us with a distinct competitive edge.”
Stuart Mackinnon, the Executive Vice President of the ATM Group at NCR Banking, underscored the changing banking paradigm. He stated, “The essence of banking today hinges on effortless cash accessibility and seamless self-service transactions. Through our Allpoint Network and unparalleled expertise in branch metamorphosis, we are in a prime position to assist financial magnates like First Bank in recalibrating their operational blueprint, granting customers the flexibility to transact at their convenience.”
This collaboration between First Bank and NCR Corporation is a testament to the evolving banking zeitgeist, where technology and customer convenience converge to redefine the future of retail banking.
