Financial Services

The image features a graphic design with the word "FINANCIAL BRAND" prominently displayed in white text on a red background, followed by the word…

Rethinking the Role of Financial Institutions – Financial Brand Forum 2025

As the financial services industry navigates rapid technological disruption and shifting consumer expectations, brand emerges as a critical transformation lever. SLD President Jean-Pierre Lacroix joined industry leaders at the Financial Brand Forum 2025 in Las Vegas for a thought-provoking panel exploring the evolving role of brand in the financial services industry. This session explored how […]

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An interior view of a modern lobby, featuring a large digital display screen on the wall, showcasing a vibrant food scene, and a welcome sign in…

CQRC – Flagship

https://www.sld.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Chongquing-Rural-Commercial-Bank-CQRC-Case-Study-Header_v2.mp4 Where flow meets function A visionary flagship branch that transforms financial transactions into meaningful experiences with fluid design, storytelling, and digital innovation. CLIENT Chongqing Rural Commercial Bank PROJECT Flagship Branch RELATED SERVICE Retail Design Environmental Graphic Design THINK Chongqing Rural Commercial Bank (CQRC) envisioned a flagship branch that would redefine the conventional banking experience.

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An icon of an orange building with a white roof, resembling a bank vault.

The Definition of Community Banking: Why branches must respond to the evolving definition of communities

The definition of community is shifting, and with it, the role of financial institutions in fostering trust, engagement, and long-term loyalty. Traditionally, community banks thrived on their physical presence, local involvement, and personalized services. However, changing consumer behaviors, the rise of digital banking, and the increasing importance of social media have blurred the boundaries of

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The Future of Community Banking: Consumer’s Perspectives on Saving Community Banking

Community banks, once the backbone of the U.S. financial sector, are facing an existential crisis. More than 3,800 institutions have disappeared since 2004 due to industry consolidation, digital disruption, and changing consumer expectations. With competition from national banks, credit unions, and online-only financial institutions intensifying, community banks must rethink their role and redefine what it

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The Connection Crisis: How Brands Can Bridge The Gap And Drive Customer Loyalty

Loneliness is increasingly being recognized as a global challenge. In May 2023, the U.S. Surgeon General went so far as to call loneliness a public health epidemic, further cementing the severity of the problem. According to our new research, 43% of consumers say they feel lonely at least some of the time – a staggering

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Want a Life of Freedom? Here’s the Big Shift You Need!

In this captivating episode, venture into the realm of personal growth and professional development with host Stacey Chillemi and guest Jean-Pierre Lacroix from SLD Inc. Explore the art of making profound shifts in both personal and professional life, unveiling invaluable strategies and practical tips that will empower and inspire you to confidently maneuver life’s twists

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A sunset over a road with the year "2025" prominently displayed on it, suggesting a future time frame.

Think Ahead for 2025: What Undercurrents Beyond Trends Brands Need to Know

“Predicting the future” is not as daunting as it might sound. If you’re paying attention, the future is already here. For the past ten years, we’ve shared potential future scenarios brands and marketers should note as they consider new initiatives. Many of these potential futures have become reality: for example, in 2018 we explored a

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2025 SLD Trends Report

The road to 2025 is marked by shifting priorities and expectations. As consumers redefine their values in response to economic pressures and cultural changes, brands will need to prove their relevance by delivering meaningful, personalized experiences that go beyond traditional offerings.  Our 2025 Trends Report explores four pivotal themes shaping the upcoming year: the increasing

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The Power of Nostalgia: Designing for Instant Emotional Impact

Emotional connection is critical for a brand because it creates a deeper connection with consumers, influencing loyalty, purchase behavior, and overall brand perception. By evoking fond associations with a particular era, product, or cultural moment, brands can establish a bond with consumers, through a sense of comfort and trust. Human decision-making is greatly driven by

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The Top Trends in Brand Strategy and Positioning

Brand strategy and positioning are like a compass and a spotlight for your business. A compass guides decision-making and operational actions, keeping you on track toward your goals. A spotlight highlights your unique strengths and values, helping you clearly stand out in a crowded market. This blog explores the top trends shaping brand strategy in

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Future Of Cash in Retail Banking: Notes From Cash in USA Conference October 2024

The Cash in the USA conference, held on October 22nd in Nashville, explored cash’s current and future role in retail banking. The conference was well attended, and presenters reflected the diversity of the industry sectors that manage cash within the banking industry. SLD shared insights on how cash and its management are no longer a

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Elevating The Banking Customer Experience: Notes from the 2024 ICX/BCX Summit

At the 2024 Networld Media Group Banking Customer Experience Summit in Charlotte, experts gathered to discuss how AI, sustainability, and evolving consumer behaviors are reshaping the customer journey across industries. From retail banking to tech-driven customer experiences, the summit highlighted the importance of aligning business strategies with customer needs in today’s digital age. Sustainability and

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SLD Wins Best Branch Design at The 2024 BCX Awards

SLD was among the three winners honored at the Bank Customer Experience (BCX) Awards ceremony during the 2024 Bank Customer Experience Summit in Charlotte, North Carolina. The BCX Awards honour financial institutions and technology providers that are transforming the retail banking industry through innovative solutions. This year’s winners delivered innovative experiences that transformed the branch experience

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A graphic design advertisement for the 17th Grand Prix du Design, which includes a logo and text in French.

Innovation Meets Recognition! SLD is Proud to Bring Home Four Awards at the 17th Edition GRANDS PRIX DU DESIGN

We are excited to announce that SLD has been recognized at the GRANDS DU PRIX DESIGN Awards for our design works on the Chongquing Rural Commercial Bank (CQRC), the Child Development Institute (CDI), Clover Leaf Seafoods, and Merryberrybublé. “Awards are a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the hard work and innovation SLD brings

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Digital Signage Study: Impact And Insights

THINK Digital signage in bank branches has become essential in transforming customer experiences and communication methods. However, there remains a debate in many institutions on the value of investing in digital platforms within the branch. This report confirms the significant impact of digital signage from consumer and banker perspectives, identifying opportunities to improve digital signage

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