Press
Affinity Plus’ web site and “Ditch Your Bank” campaign receive awards
Risdall Marketing Group and Public Relations developed the credit union’s web site which received an Outstanding Website award, and advertising campaign that received the Award of Excellence
ST. PAUL, MN (October 4, 2013) — Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union enlisted Risdall Marketing Group to bring a fresh, updated look to their Web site in 2011 that would not only provide additional features and benefits allowing for easier navigation, but highlight the most important piece of the credit union – their members. When the new site launched in 2012, its design captured visitors with actual photos and testimonials of members on each page, and replicated the personal, accommodating experience members have when they visit the branch.
“Creating the type of atmosphere online for current and potential members that conveys who we are, what we stand for, and what we do was a huge task, and Risdall Marketing Group delivered on all three key points with our Web site design,” states Dave Larson, interim President and CEO of Affinity Plus.
The Web Marketing Association honored Affinity Plus with an Outstanding Website award at its 2013 WebAwards. A panel of judges evaluates each WebAward nomination using the following criteria: design, innovation, content, technology, interactivity, copywriting and ease of use.
With the Web site ready for traffic, Risdall Public Relations developed the ubiquitous “Ditch Your Bank” advertising campaign for Affinity Plus that has helped grow their membership to more than 170,000 members. The dynamic campaign did more than take an anti-bank stance, it also highlighted Affinity Plus’ difference and member first philosophy.
“We’re committed to putting people first and doing what’s right. Based on the behavior of banks and the way they treated their customers, we recognized a need to spread the message that there is an alternative to banking,” states Larson. “People deserve better, and the ‘Ditch Your Bank’ campaign really conveyed this message to people who wanted to be more than just another customer.”
The success of the “Ditch Your Bank” campaign was recognized at the 2013 IABC Minnesota Red Carpet Celebration, and earned Risdall Public Relations the Bronze Quill Award of Merit for its demonstration of strategic thinking, contribution of value and measurable benefits, with a strong emphasis on results.
The relationship Affinity Plus has with Risdall Marketing Group and Public Relations has resulted in many previous awards, including two Diamond Awards at the 2013 CUNA Conference.
For more information about Affinity Plus, visit www.affinityplus.org, and to check out the “Ditch Your Bank” campaign, visit https://www.affinityplus.org/ditch-your-bank.
About Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union
Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union is a not-for-profit cooperative that puts people first above profits. We are committed to empowering consumers – for knowledge, for understanding and to know there are alternatives that focus on the success of people, not the bottom line. Members of Affinity Plus receive maximum value through competitive rates, minimal fees, and unique, member –centric products and programs. Affinity Plus is the largest credit union in Minnesota with state-based assets and has 27 branches located throughout the state. With more than $1.6 billion in assets, Affinity Plus is based in St. Paul and is owned by more than 170,000 members. Through a broad range of eligibility criteria, almost anyone can become a member of Affinity Plus. Additional information is available at www.affinityplus.org or by calling 800-322-7228.