The Return to Community Banking

Across St. Louis, businesses and families are rethinking their banking relationships.

 

After years of industry consolidation, call centers, and one-size-fits-all service, more consumers are asking a simple question: Who actually knows me when I call?

 

That question is the focus of a recent St. Louis Magazine feature,"Why St. Louis Businesses and Families are Rediscovering the Community Bank," which examines the growing demand for relationship-based banking and highlights how community banks are meeting the moment.

 

For Bank of Washington President Louis B. "Buzz" Eckelkamp III, the shift isn't surprising.

 

"That relationship is the whole point, and it's the thing the big banks quietly stopped offering," Eckelkamp said in the article.

 

The feature explores why customers are increasingly seeking local decision-making, direct access to bankers, greater financial privacy, and personalized service from people who understand their goals and their community. Whether it's a family opening its first account or a business owner managing payroll and cash flow, many are finding that community banking delivers something they didn't realize they were missing.

 

While banking technology has evolved dramatically, customer expectations have not.

 

People still want trusted guidance. They still want responsive service. And they still want confidence that their financial institution understands them as more than an account number.

 

At Bank of Washington, that philosophy has guided the bank since 1877.

 

From local decision-making and relationship-based service to innovative tools such as digital banking, treasury management solutions, and Live ATMs with access to real bankers seven days a week, the bank continues to blend modern convenience with a personal approach.

 

"More people are discovering what community banking customers have known all along," said Danielle Unnerstall, SVP, Director of Strategy & Marketing. "You shouldn't have to choose between technology and relationships. You deserve both. That's why we're seeing growing interest from businesses and families who want a banking partner that knows them, values them, and is invested in their success."

 

The article also highlights Bank of Washington's commitment to investing in local communities through charitable giving, volunteerism, and innovative products like its Heroes Account and Impact Account, which help customers support causes that matter close to home.

 

With the recent opening of its Clayton branch and continued growth throughout the region, Bank of Washington believes the trend toward community banking is just beginning.

 

Because at the end of the day, customers aren't looking for more banking products.

 

They're looking for a better banking relationship.