Sparbanken 1826 is Sweden's oldest savings bank. The bank saw an opportunity for growth by merging

with other local banks in the region. They needed a new foundation and a clear direction for the change, 

and we had the pleasure of assisting them in this transformation.

With help from our HeartDriven Innovation™ method and process we created a new vision, design strategy

and extensive brand platform for the bank. Through the development process we worked intensely on all levels within the organization to

enable an understanding and acceptance of and engagement in the change. We added new insights through

market and trend analysis, conducted detailed interviews, workshops, executive- and team coaching and

developed an internal learning program. We also created the concept and plans for the kick-off event and

the external launch. We tested all the concepts by holding focus group sessions with the bank’s customers

and other stakeholders. 

Since the launch the bank has grown steadily and has manifested its new position as ‘a modern regional

savings bank with experience’. The bank has chosen a strategy where openness, care, knowledge, and

long term thinking form the core of all their activities. The bank is committed to investment in innovative

activities that can create a flourishing & balanced society in its local region. Since the start of the project

the bank has grown from 200 to more than 300 employees. It now holds a market share of 65% in the

South-East of Sweden and its total turnover has risen from €3.7 in 2008 to over €5.6 billion in 2012.

In 2014 the bank took another big step in the direction of its vision. Sparbanken 1826 merged with another regional savings bank, and another name change took place to Sparbanken Skåne. Today the bank is the biggest independent savings bank in Sweden. In 2014 the bank had about 650 employees, 44 offices and a total turnover of € 19 billion.