Key Community Banking Trends of 2026

With 2026 right around the corner, we know that strategy and planning is high on the priority list of many industry leaders. From building trust to integrating technology and flowing processes, it's important that consumers are the focus of future planning. We sat down with Ben La Macchia, Senior Vice President of La Macchia Group, to dive into the key banking trends of 2026 to help build a solid approach to connecting with your consumers. 

Whar are the key retail banking trends for 2026?

Earlier this year we conducted an industry survey, and one of the key themes we saw was that nearly half of consumers (44%) say they won’t use a digital-only bank because they don’t trust it, and 72% of branch visitors say face-to-face banking is simply easier. In 2026 financial institutions should double down on shaping a successful hybrid banking model that builds trust, connects with people, and shows up for their communities, while continuing to enhance the digital tools that people rely on.

For each of these trends, what is your advice for how community bankers can best respond?

We know that digital alone isn’t enough, and physical branches alone aren’t enough either. The future is a mix of both. A strong hybrid model combines digital tools for everyday tasks with real human expertise for loans, mortgages, and financial guidance. Branches should be intentionally designed and located where they’re truly needed, and the experience should be seamless across mobile, web, branch, and call center.

Ways to lean into the hybrid banking model include:

• Incorporating impactful digital signage, interactive displays, and AI-driven tools to engage customers and provide real-time assistance can help bridge the gap between online and physical.
• Reflecting the community’s identity through design elements while maintaining a cohesive brand presence.    
• Creating adaptable spaces that can accommodate financial consultations, community events, and educational workshops. With that, banks should emphasize open, welcoming layouts that encourage interaction and exploration.
• Operationally, banks should be viewing generative AI as an essential tool in 2026 and beyond. Automating tasks like loan underwriting, credit checks, compliance, and fraud detection lets staff focus on relationship-building and high-value advisory work instead of routine processing.

how can companies like la macchia group help community banks?

Companies like ours help answer the tough questions before banks embark on a large-scale project, ensuring they have the data to confidently plan for present and future success. We start by analyzing the business, market dynamics, and growth potential through strategic branching, consumer classifications, market scoring, network assessments, brand research, and consumer travel pattern tracking. Using GIS, surveys, and fieldwork, we identify opportunities in current and target markets. Whether building, buying, renovating, or rebranding, our data-driven insights provide a clear, actionable plan for growth. La Macchia Group works exclusively with financial institutions, giving access to in-house services that are both accurate and actionable. Because we focus solely on this sector, our expertise is highly specialized, and our clients’ proformas consistently demonstrate the results.