The Affinity Credit Union’s branch in Gronlid will be closing in June.
“Closing a branch is a very difficult decision,” said Tim Schroh, Affinity’s chief operating officer, “but it’s really part of a broader strategy in terms of delivering service to our members.”
Schroh said those using the credit union are changing their behaviours, doing more banking digitally and through ATMs.
“Members are using the branch less and less and using other channels more and more.”
When looking at the Gronlid branch, Schroh said they examined the branch’s profitability, trends in terms of transactions, growth and within the community, proximity to other branches, and employee safety and security.
“There’s a whole host of considerations that go behind closing a location.”
Two employees will be affected.
“Our HR department has met with each affected employee individually to discuss their options.”
Those options could include relocation or the end of their employment with Affinity along with the branch. Schroh said those discussions are ongoing.
The chief operating officer said his credit union would be talking to its members about the move.
“What we’re absolutely committed to is to reach out and have a conversation with every family and every household and help them understand there are other avenues and other ways in which to continue their relationship with Affinity, whether that be with their mobile, online, all of the self-serve channels or neighbouring locations.”
