Money, money, money … ABBA already knew it: it’s not just about the money, but about the feeling that stays after the song. And these days, that very feeling is often decided in the very first moment, not always by a lyric or a rhythm, but mostly by our sense of smell. Because where it smells good, you automatically feel good, link it to memories, stay longer and are happy to come back. That’s no secret, but has long been proven both scientifically and emotionally.
One such place is the bank branch, and yes, at first that may not exactly sound like an “experience space”. But that’s exactly where a fragrant change is happening. Because bank branches have long been more than places for financial transactions: they’re increasingly becoming modern places to meet. The Ilz-Großsteinbach-Riegersburg bank branch in Styria is just such an example: using AROMEA Airdesign, it shows how targeted scent marketing creates atmosphere, reduces stress and strengthens brand recognition.
In the entrance area, the counter area and the self-service area, our AROMEA Pro Tower diffuser provides subtle, continuous scenting. We spoke with Christiane Loder about choosing the right fragrance and how modern interior design shapes all the senses today.
When people talk about scent marketing, they tend to think first of feel-good spaces like wellness and spa areas or hotel lobbies. What was the idea behind the decision to use AROMEA Airdesign in the Ilz-Großsteinbach Riegersburg bank branch?
Christiane Loder: The decision was made in the course of the extensive new build and modernisation. The aim was to turn the bank from a purely functional place into a modern meeting centre that is “more than a bank”. AROMEA was chosen to bring this new spatial concept to life on another sensory level and to create an unmistakable brand identity.
What role does atmosphere, or the feel-good factor, generally play in bank branches today?
Christiane Loder: Atmosphere is a decisive competitive advantage today. Simple banking is often done digitally. But for us, closeness, personal advice and reliability are very important.
What effect do you hope the targeted use of room fragrances will have on your customers?
Christiane Loder: With the targeted use of scents, we want to achieve various effects. A pleasant scent can reduce stress during important decisions, influence how long customers stay or make us more recognisable.
Why did you specifically choose the scent “Comfort”?
Christiane Loder: The “Comfort” fragrance was chosen to convey a sense of security and safety. In a bank, it’s important to create a stable and calming environment.
How do your customers perceive the scent: have you already had any feedback?
Christiane Loder: The response has been consistently positive.
Hand on your banker’s heart: are there specific situations in everyday branch life where you notice that the atmosphere makes a real difference?
Christiane Loder: A fragrant, aesthetically pleasing environment can lower stress levels, which makes conversations easier. When customer numbers are high, a calming atmosphere can make the wait feel shorter and prevent restlessness.
Photo credit: J.Pitschmann
