KeyBank’s newest branch opened at 332 Central Way in Kirkland on Nov. 16.
“This is all about customer convenience,” said Branch Manager Matthew Sheppard, who adds that all staff will be moving from the previous location across the street at 327 Park Place Center. An additional relationship manager is relocating from the Totem Lake branch.
“We are confident that our customers will benefit from the new nearby site. And we are especially delighted to be the one of the first KeyBank branches in the country to introduce a new look and updated technology.”
At 2,500 square feet, the branch size is similar to most new KeyBank branches but the layout is unique – a 700-square-foot mezzanine overlooks the 1,800-square-foot main floor.
Bankers share use of the new Express Cash Recycler, state-of-the-art technology that will enhance efficiency by accepting cash deposits, counting and sorting bills, and applying deposits directly into client accounts. The ECR increases transaction speed and efficiency while minimizing the chance of errors.
Wi-Fi throughout the interior enables bankers to access client account information and demonstrate online services from anywhere in the branch. A state-of-the-art audio system features high-end Bose speakers with adjustable volume in three distinct zones.
Neutral colors accented with branded red convey a modern look inside. The design incorporates energy-efficient lighting and a high-efficiency HVAC system.
A concierge station serves as the “air traffic control” point for branch guests as they enter. Transactions with no cash component are handled there, while clients with more complex needs are directed to a teller or relationship manager. The concierge station is equipped with a tablet to show clients how to use online bill pay and other self-directed online features.
Guests waiting for service sit in a comfortable hospitality area where they can help themselves to hot beverages or chilled water.
The building features two ATMs, one inside the lobby and one walk-up next to the front door. Customers will appreciate the ATMs’ speedy paperwork-free transactions and the resulting immediate access to deposited cash and checks with no lag time for processing.
Branch employees are equipped to provide consumer banking services as well as business banking and SBA lending, investment and trust services, home mortgage loans and private banking.
The new branch is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday; Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays.
“Branches continue to play an important role in our delivery strategy,” said John Roehm, retail sales executive for KeyBank’s Washington region. “While we are investing in technology to enhance mobile banking and staffing a 24-hour call center, our clients tell us that they still prefer a mix of channels to conduct their banking transactions. We want our customers to know they can connect with Key using the combination of channels that works best for them.”
