LOWELL, Mass.–Workers Credit Union here has opened a new branch that includes an interactive hologram and a humanoid robot to go with the new video tellers.
The 3,400-square-foot “PlanIt” location has opened at 1201 Bridge Street in the Centerville neighborhood of Lowell. The interactive hologram named “Olivia” can answer frequently asked questions in several languages, including Spanish, Vietnamese, and American Sign Language (ASL). A friendly humanoid robot named “Pepper” keeps the mood “light and fun,” said Workers CU.
“The technology takes the friction out of banking, so our members and staff can focus on building financial wellness” says Workers Credit Union Chief Banking Officer Peter Rice.
According to Workers CU, which noted the move comes at a time when many financial institutions are closing their physical locations, each PlanIt location has private spaces for members to participate in the “Workers Way,” a personalized, financial coaching program offered at no additional cost.
“For many people, there is a huge shame and stigma attached to the money challenges they face,” Rice said. “Workers Way is judgment free. We empower our members to make good decisions.”
Certified Financial Coaches
The $2-billion Workers CU said its staff are trained and certified financial coaches who meet with members one-on-one, both in person and virtually. “They take members through a step-by-step process of changing how they think about and manage money so they can achieve their dreams,” WCU said.
The credit union added plans are in place to open a PlanIt location in Shrewsbury, Mass. later this year and to grow into other communities within the region.
Workers CU has approximately 109,000 members.