Absa: The Future of Retail Banking in South Africa

An Innovative and Technologically Rich Branch

Designed as a test lab for developing innovative products and processes, Absa's new branch at Clearwater Mall in Johannesburg is a visual statement of the bank's commitment to meeting customer needs. The main banking space serves as a platform for community engagement and marketing promotions, including Absa's extensive sports sponsorship.

The branch's main aim is to keep the customer's voice at the forefront of banking initiatives. To achieve this, Absa has incorporated cutting-edge technology into the branch's design. Quick service enquiry points, interactive touch-screens, and a 25-meter long digital screen create a wealth of technology for customers to interact with.

The digital wall in the "customer interaction zone" features Samsung professional display monitors, ranging from 33 to 55 inches, forming a captivating "forest display." A Coolux media system centrally manages all digital devices in the branch, while Samsung Microsoft touch surfaces are embedded in the desktops.

The design team faced the challenge of creating an innovative and technologically rich environment without alienating existing Absa clients. By actively listening to customer needs and finding ways to meet them through simple and innovative banking solutions, they were able to strike a balance between innovation and familiarity.

Absa's new branch at Clearwater Mall took six months to complete. Its unique combination of technology, community engagement, and customer-centric design has earned it the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in 2013. This award recognizes the branch's well-designed, practical, and innovative features that meet professional and industrial requirements.

Absa's innovative branch is a testament to the future of retail banking in South Africa. By prioritizing customer needs and incorporating cutting-edge technology, Absa is setting a new standard for banking experiences.