When southwest Montana’s Sky Federal Credit Union first came to us, they were seeking marketing assistance that would speak to their members in a relatable and recallable way. Sky serves an economically booming region of the state, and needed to clearly communicate the ways that credit unions are different than banks.
Banik began with a brand audit and then began to reposition Sky to represent who they truly are: Montanans who work in partnership for financial independence. Sky is governed by a board drawn from its own membership, so the people behind its counters are customers as well.
Our initial work focused on reinforcing that Sky Federal Credit Union is local. We wanted to tout that its membership is made up of neighbors and friends, while underlining Montana values like hard work, reliability and honesty. Most of all, the work communicates that Sky’s mission is to serve its members, not a corporate bottom line.
Sky oversees a large number of programs, events, and offers for its membership, and it’s been our task to make it all a cohesive part of the larger brand while prompting members to action. We create print and online ads, eblasts, newsletters, radio, and other marketing efforts to further Sky’s reach.
Whether we’re talking about holiday promotions, a new branch opening, or identity protection, you’ll know at first glance that you’re looking at work from Sky. Every element we create has the goal of reinforcing Sky’s image as well as communicating about a product, service, or event.
Moving into this year, we’re working with Sky to launch their newest branch as they expand the area they serve. They’ve grown steadily and deliberately in order to maintain the high level of service their members count on. The hometown approach Sky delivers and the individuality as well as the lack of pretension that Montanans value all contribute to their continued success in helping their membership pursue its dreams. We’ve been fortunate to be along for the ride representing those qualities in our work for a valued Montana partner.