Carman's Access Credit Union branch celebrated its long-awaited expansion, but this was much more than a new coat of paint.

The location on Main Street is the first in the next generation of credit union branches modeled after their Innovation Centre.

President and CEO of Access, Larry Davey says investing in towns like Carman shows their long-term commitment to small and large communities in the Pembina Valley, and allows them to continue looking for new financial opportunities. 

The location on Main Street in Carman is the first in the next generation of credit union branches modeled after Access's Innovation Centre.

"They've been long supporters of the credit union, and in this way, we show them we're going to be here for a long time."

The location between Morden and Winkler was a test in how future branches should look, with an emphasis on technology to improve the experience for both members and staff. Davey says they've tried to incorporate all of that into the Carman location.

"We've certainly seen a trend of people doing more on their phone, more on the computer. As a result, we've been able to scale things down a little bit in a physical presence, but at the same time provide the expertise members are looking for when they come in."

For both the Innovation Centre and updated Carman location, they are in uncharted territory, says Davey, adding they're continuing to learn from everything they've put into this branch to improve the service of their members.

He believes the trend of technology-based banking will last, and when people do come into a branch, they want knowledgeable people to deal with and a comfortable experience. That philosophy has directly influenced the design of the physical space.

Davey says when speaking to builders, they wanted a building that was welcoming and inviting for those who might be feeling the reluctance to ask financial questions.

At the grand reopening, Carman Mayor Brent Owen expressed the community's thanks for the business's continued investment in the town, not only with the expansion but the dozens of other projects and initiatives.

"We would like to thank Access for the work they do in the community by supporting organizations, charities, and events. The recent donations to the baseball diamond project as well as the personal care home are just some examples of how Access gives back to our community, and to make it a better place."