Need cash for your next big trip? CVG's only bank just got more convenient

It just got a bit easier to manage your money before a big trip.

Fifth Third Bank opened a new full-service branch with a unique layout at the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport. According to a news release, the branch provides all banking services including currency exchange.

"We wanted to make sure that it was a full-service branch just like any traditional office you go in any Fifth Third across our entire footprint," said John Sieg, regional retail executive at Fifth Third. "If you wanted to open a checking account, if you wanted to open a savings account, do a home equity line of credit, we will be able to do all of those things for you."

"I think what makes this branch a little bit unique is the amount of foreign exchange that we have available on hand at this branch, especially with some of the new international flights that they've added over the last 24 months at the airport," he added.

The branch will replace a smaller Fifth Third location that was located at the same concourse, Concourse B.

Fifth Third is the only bank located in CVG, Sieg said, and offers one of the few full-service branches located in an airport. According to a 2018 American Banker article, there are only about 15 "publicly accessible" bank branches in American airports.

What does the new branch look like?

The new location is larger, "incredibly open" and allows for greater convenience for customers, Sieg said. There is no teller window where people wait behind to be helped. Instead, customers can speak with bank employees wherever they prefer in the different meeting areas that are integrated into the lounge-like space.

The location also offers a host of amenities open to Fifth Third customers and noncustomers, including ample desk space, hydration, charging stations and phonebooths for private conversations. There are also digital installations targeted toward children.

Fifth Third aimed to create a space where travelers would want to spend time while waiting for their flight, Sieg said.

Why was this branch created?

Representatives from Fifth Third and CVG both highlight how the new branch fulfills their company's goals.

Sieg said that the development of this branch is in alignment with Fifth Third's current efforts to build a robust network and invest in its core Midwest markets.

He added that this branch is the "quintessential customer service branch" that is focused on meeting the customers' needs through the unique open space, as well as fostering a sense of community for customers and noncustomers alike.

Paul Hegedus, vice president of commercial management at CVG, added that the branch benefits CVG travelers.

"Particularly due to CVG’s international destinations, we have believed it to be important to offer a retail banking location directly within the airport that has foreign currency exchange capabilities," says Hegedus.

"Now, Fifth Third is elevating the travel experience at CVG by providing a world-class facility that extends beyond offering just traditional banking services and gives the nearly 9 million travelers that come through CVG every year—both Fifth Third customers and non-customers alike—a host of amenities we know they will enjoy."

Where is the Fifth Third branch in CVG located?

The branch is located in the space once occupied by Natalie's Candy Jar. According to a CVG airport map, the branch is located near the top of the escalators that take you up to Concourse B, next to Starbucks. This is also across from the food court.