FAYETTEVILLE, Ark.–Arvest Bank is reporting it has launched an initiative to establish dedicated bilingual branches for its Spanish-speaking customers.
Existing branches in Springdale, Ark. and another in Lawton, Okla., will be the first two branches in the new initiative, as will a new branch that’s under construction in Kansas City, Kan.
All three branches will provide “a more inclusive and accessible environment for Spanish-speaking individuals with additional Spanish-language resources” and bilingual employees to assist customers with banking services, according to a news release.
The Springdale branch is undergoing a lobby remodel that’s expected to be completed in the second quarter, according to the bank.
‘Vital Economic Engine’
“Our Spanish-speaking community is a vital economic engine for our region,” Julie Shook, sales manager for Arvest Bank — Springdale region, said in a statement. “This initiative is about embracing the rich diversity that makes our community strong. By ensuring equitable access to financial services, we are investing in the future success of our region.”
Additional branches are expected to be a part of the initiative as well.
According to a statement from Arvest Bank, it has more than 500 employees “who are certified to offer products and services in Spanish.” The bank opened a Community Resource Center in Tulsa, Okla., in 2023 to house multiple departments with bilingual employees and provide free financial education in Spanish and English.
The bank also has an employee-led group, HOLArvest, which focuses on creating awareness and deepening relationships with Hispanic and Latino communities, it said.
