Community banks today are facing increasing pressure to keep pace with customer expectations and digital innovation. Small business customers, in particular, are looking for modern, data-driven solutions that help them operate efficiently and grow. To stay competitive, community banks must adopt and offer innovative payment technologies and services that build deeper relationships and drive value.
Here are five payment trends every community bank should embrace, and how Celero can help.
1. Advanced Business Intelligence and Analytics
Small business owners need real-time insights to make informed decisions. By offering advanced business intelligence solutions, community banks can empower their commercial customers to analyze performance, identify opportunities, and simplify operations. CeleroBI® is a tool that provides real-time portfolio data and actionable insights, helping merchants customize strategies and maximize profitability. Offering such a solution positions your bank as a trusted advisor and strengthens long-term customer relationships.
2. Integrated Payment and CRM Solutions
Today’s merchants need integrated tools that simplify customer management and daily operations. Celero’s Compass® CRM platform offers seamless onboarding, real-time reporting, and intuitive dashboards, providing total control and transparency. By delivering a fully integrated solution, community banks can help their customers save time and increase operational efficiency, all while reinforcing loyalty.
3. Omnichannel Payment Capabilities
The ability to accept payments anytime, anywhere is crucial. Small businesses expect flexible solutions that support in-person, online, and mobile payments. Celero’s Connect® Gateway enables community banks to offer merchants a versatile platform that simplifies accepting payments across all channels. With Celero’s Streamline® solution, businesses can also accept payments on a smartphone or tablet, creating a frictionless experience for both merchants and their customers.
4. Enhanced Security and Compliance
Trust is essential in banking relationships, and security remains a top concern for merchants. Community banks can differentiate themselves by offering payment solutions with built-in compliance and advanced security standards. Celero PCI® ensures the highest level of protection for both banks and merchants, reducing risk and providing peace of mind. This commitment to security further strengthens your bank’s reputation and customer trust.
5. Bundled SaaS and Value-Added Solutions
Merchants are looking for more value from their payment partners–tools that help them manage operations, marketing, inventory, and more. Celero’s bundled SaaS solutions give community banks the ability to offer business owners over 5,000 business management tools across 100+ industries, all under one simplified pricing structure. Providing these solutions helps banks become a one-stop-shop for business growth, boosting non-interest income in the process.
Ready to Future-Proof Your Bank?
By embracing these five key offerings, community banks can deepen commercial relationships, grow deposits, and enhance non-interest income. Want to learn how Celero can help your institution stay ahead? Contact us today to get started.