Clarkston State Bank
Regional Michigan bank focused on commercial banking, lending, and strong ties to their community.
Services Provided
- Marketing Strategy
- Brand Strategy
- UX & Visual Design
- Web Development
- SEO
- Email Marketing
- Content Marketing
- Social Media
Community Bank Updates Its Brand, Ignites Digital Marketing
The Challenge
Clarkston State Bank (CSB) was a regional bank serving Southeast Michigan, with a focus on business banking and commercial lending. In 2020, they successfully reached a primary corporate goal and were acquired by Waterford Bank, N.A.
CSB prided itself on strong community ties, exceptional personal service, deep lending experience and a thorough understanding of the area businesses’ needs and economic realities.
CSB had big aspirations to grow its brand and services in the region – and fill a clear business lending void they saw in their market – but was being perceived as too small and unequipped to serve medium and large businesses. In addition, they had no marketing staff and were thin on digital marketing and design expertise. In order to fulfill their vision, they needed help defining their market positioning and messaging, building a modern, mobile-friendly website, and establishing initial programs for SEO and email marketing to create a thriving brand.
The Solution
CSTMR developed a clear marketing strategy to help them meet their goals. We began with new brand messaging to more clearly position Clarkston State Bank as a business bank that has the capacity and knowledge that the big banks do, but more attune to local business needs and personal service.
Working with the CSB banking team, we then designed and built a new, modern website to carry this new message, and optimized it for mobile use and SEO organic traffic.
We also created and manage a new email marketing and social media program for them to communicate value to new and existing customers.
"Without a formal marketing plan in place, CSTMR engaged with us and developed a clear strategy. They rolled out a brand new, updated website with SEO optimization for the banking market, and an email and social media program for communicating with our clients and promoting our products. CSTMR has been a perfect fit."
Results
An Effective, Impactful Brand and Programs that Positioned CSB for a Successful Acquisition
Clarkston State Bank dramatically upgraded its web presence and brand value, and began reaching a wider audience of existing and new customers through digital and traditional channels. Other banks and entities also took notice, which helped lead to a successful acquisition by Waterford Bank N.A. in 2020.
- Developed a new brand positioning and messaging strategy and platform.
- Designed and built new mobile-responsive website.
- Developed SEO strategy, optimized new site, and continue to optimize site content and offsite SEO.
- Launched a new email marketing program, and continue to manage and grow it.
- Provide marketing strategy, copywriting and design support for other initiatives (collateral, events, PR, etc.)
