Future-Proofing Financial Institutions: Consumer-Centric Strategies for 2025

by La Macchia Group

Consumers are changing how they think about banks and credit unions. In response, financial institutions must alter their approach. Will your path forward be consumer-driven or a roll of the dice?

As we look at 2025, it has never been more important for financial institutions to invest time and resources into market studies and research. Most annual plans will include key stats - growth (or reduction) in assets, new accounts, etc. - but if your analysis stops with internal reporting after more than a year of changing market dynamics, you are missing a great opportunity to both understand and, ultimately, meet the needs of your current and future consumers.

Prepare, Because Change is Unavoidable

Times—and consumers—are constantly evolving, and this trend shows no signs of stopping. At La Macchia Group, we reject the myth that “the branch is dead,” but we recognize that banking habits are shifting. While many studies point to trends favoring digital platforms or shifts in attitudes toward big banks, it's easy to get lost in the headlines and generalized data. What truly matters is understanding your specific market and what your current and potential customers think of your financial institution.

As we often say at La Macchia Group: you could guess, but wouldn’t you rather know? With thorough market research and analysis, you can gain a clear, multifaceted view of your market and determine exactly what—if anything—your target audience is thinking about your institution.

"No one expects your to be a mind-reader," said Tim Klatt, Director of Retail Strategies for La Macchia Group. "Whether you're considering a building, branding, or technology integrating project for your bank, a critical first step is to conduct demographic and consumer research to discover what, if any, points of friction currently exist within a user's financial experience and how your project can address those issues. Your next steps shouldn't be a guessing game; they should be rooted in data and actionable insights and should clearly demonstrate a return on investment."

 

Are you curious if your branch strategy, technology integration or growth plans options are helping you attract and retain consumers? Do the research, and most importantly, ask real people. Far too often, actual, direct consumer perceptions are left out of market analyses and brand assessments. Don’t make that mistake; bring them to the table.

 

GO STRAIGHT TO THE SOURCE

Consumers are changing how they think about financial institutions. In response, banks and credit unions must also shift how they think about consumers. Start a dialogue with your consumers through a comprehensive market analysis and invite them to establish a relationship with you and your brand. Odds are the result will be loyalty and long-term investment.

 

NEXT STEPS

To learn more about what a comprehensive market analysis could do for you, connect with one of our analysts today.

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