Allied First Bank, a community bank located in Oswego, IL, acknowledges that their marketing budget may be smaller than many of their competitors. Which is why Rory Bolen, Director of Marketing for Allied First Bank, decided to kick off a transit advertising campaign with Adsposure – to build off their current media mix, and get the most bang for their buck!
As a “one-man ad agency” Bolen knew that he had to find the right partner for his next creative campaign, and Adsposure and Pace Suburban Bus were able to step in and assist in moving Allied First Bank’s message throughout Chicagoland.
Transit Advertising: The Vehicle for Success
The “Take Us for a Test Drive” campaign has become synonymous with Allied First Bank’s unique value proposition. This transit advertising campaign encourages potential customers to explore the bank’s offerings, positioning Allied First Bank as the second banking option that is not just unique but also reliable.
Bolen explained the campaign to the Adsposure team, highlighting the reason behind the $2 bills on the advertising. “The creative that we launched, utilizing transit, along with all of our media mix is ‘take us for a test drive’… we’re unique, we’re like a $2 bill… we try twice as hard and it’s a rare value to find nowadays,” said Bolen.
Transit Advertising: The Vehicle for Success
Allied First Bank’s media mix includes cable, radio, social media, and outdoor advertising, revolving around the concept of “one sight, one sound, one sell.” However, it’s their strategic use of transit advertising that takes their brand beyond the immediate neighborhood.
Allied First Bank decided to partner with Adsposure and Pace for their recent out of transit advertising campaign, to put their advertisements all over the greater Chicago area. They decided on super tail and kong bus advertisements, along with bus shelters, to reach a wide audience all over Pace’s service area. Allied First Bank’s messaging is seen by pedestrians, drivers, and passengers, aiding in the “one sight” piece of their media strategy.
Advertising a Rare Find
The “Take Us for a Test Drive” campaign has become synonymous with Allied First Bank’s unique value proposition. This campaign encourages potential customers to explore the bank’s offerings, positioning Allied First Bank as the second banking option that is not just unique but also reliable.
Bolen explained the campaign to the Adsposure team, highlighting the reason behind the $2 bills on the advertising. “The creative that we launched, utilizing transit, along with all of our media mix is ‘take us for a test drive’… we’re unique, we’re like a $2 bill… we try twice as hard and it’s a rare value to find nowadays,” said Bolen.
And interest in the campaign is growing! According to Bolen, the QR code on the advertisements is driving trackable traffic to their website. Plus, the shelters and buses are making an impact in the community, and with Allied First Bank’s staff.
“[The advertisements] even help staff,” shared Bolen, “staff will see the ads and it actually helps them reinforce that we’re out there in the community.”
Taking Allied First Bank for a Test Drive
Allied First Bank has quite the rich history and has always been a “rare value.” Founded by an American airline pilot, the bank started its journey by facilitating global transactions for fellow pilots. Today, they remain deeply rooted in the local community while expanding their reach with 25 mortgage offices across the nation.
The bank prides itself on acting as a community bank with a modern twist. Offering services ranging from commercial lending to home loans and HELOCs, they strike the perfect balance between cutting-edge technology and a personal touch.
“We’re big enough to serve but small enough to care,” says Bolen. “And I know that sounds weird, but it’s true. We have all the resources, and all the modern technology that’s cutting edge, but also, still, we act as a small local bank, we actually care, and decisions are made locally.”
Adsposure and Allied First Bank – A Partnership that Pays Off
At Adsposure, we take pride in making sure that our advertising partners have everything they need to have a successful transit advertising campaign. From design services to assisting with choosing the right ad formats – the Adsposure team is there to assist.
Bolen says one of the best parts of working with the Adsposure team was the customer service provided by the Chicago team and his Account Executive, John. “The customer service is really what makes them great,” shared Bolen, “in the sense that it’s almost a concierge service. It’s a lot of there for you if you need it.”
And we are here and ready to help you with your next transit advertising campaign! Whether its in suburban Chicago with Pace, or in another of our markets in the United States, the Adsposure team is ready to elevate your campaign and reach your audience effectively, within your budget.