OCCU reimagines branches for a changing banking landscape
New and modernized locations emphasize financial guidance, accessibility and community connection alongside digital convenience
EUGENE, Ore. — As digital banking continues to change how members manage their finances, OCCU | Oregon Community Credit Union is also continuing to invest in modern, accessible branches that strengthen community connection and complement the convenience of online and mobile banking.
For members, that means more choice in how they bank: the ability to handle everyday needs quickly through digital tools and convenient access to in-person support when they want guidance on bigger financial decisions, need help navigating a complex situation or simply prefer to talk with someone face to face.
OCCU’s newer branches are designed differently than traditional financial institutions. Rather than focusing primarily on transaction counters and teller lines, the spaces emphasize financial guidance, accessibility and flexibility. Features such as teller pods, advisor stations, interactive teller technology, private consultation areas and community-inspired design elements help create a more comfortable environment for conversations about major financial decisions while still providing efficient everyday banking services. The result is a branch experience that combines the convenience members expect with the personal guidance many still value.
The investments reflect OCCU’s belief that branches still play an important role in members’ financial lives. While many routine transactions now happen through MyOCCU Online & Mobile, branches provide space for one-on-one conversations about borrowing, saving, homeownership, business needs and other milestones.
The most recent branch project was relocating its West 11th branch just a few doors from its previous location. The move was short, but the 2,815-square-foot new space offers more than one-third additional space and is designed to make visits easier, more private and more accessible for members. The branch includes an ADA-compliant teller station near the front door, three enclosed offices, four advisor stations, three teller pods, private meeting areas and enhanced accessibility features.
"Today's branch experience looks different than it did even a few years ago," said Greg Schumacher, OCCU President & CEO. "Members still value personal guidance when they're buying a home, starting a business, rebuilding credit or planning for the future. Our branch designs are intentionally focused on making those conversations easier, more private and more comfortable while still offering the convenience and efficiency people expect."
OCCU’s branch strategy also reflects broader growth across Oregon. In 2023, OCCU opened its first branches outside the Willamette Valley in Roseburg and Redmond. In 2024, OCCU opened branches in Cottage Grove and Corvallis, followed by an additional Corvallis campus location near Oregon State University. In January 2026, OCCU opened its Bend branch, further expanding its presence in Central Oregon. There are also plans to renovate its flagship Downtown branch in early 2027, continuing that momentum by reinvesting in a location central to OCCU’s history and long-standing relationship with nearby University of Oregon.
For OCCU, branch investment is part of a long-term strategy to stay connected to members and communities as banking habits evolve - pairing modern tools with local expertise and spaces designed for meaningful financial conversations.
About OCCU
OCCU is a not-for-profit financial cooperative with more than $3.5 billion in assets. The credit union was founded in Eugene, Oregon in 1956. OCCU has an expanding network of branches and digital tools to provide its more than 300,000 member-owners with a full suite of financial services. Membership is open to anyone living or working in most of Oregon, southwest Idaho and anywhere in Washington. Learn more at MyOCCU.org.
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