New Kentucky credit union drive-ups have that `McDonald' flavor

FORT KNOX, Ky. – Taking a cue from McDonald’s, Fort Knox Federal Credit Union is once again installing extra auto tellers in its drive-through lanes in a “double stacking” configuration to speed up traffic and eliminate long queues. The Kentucky-based CU caused a stir a few years ago when it bought the extra Diebold auto tellers for the drive-through lanes at its Radcliff branch. The extra devices were needed to avoid traffic buildups and safety concerns as members pulled off a busy highway to turn into the branch. The idea caught on with members who enjoyed the speedy service. Members are directed via intercom to move ahead to another line to a waiting remote visual teller (VAT), much the same way hamburger customers are directed to the next open window at McDonald’s Fort Knox said it will have eight drive-thru lanes with “double stacking” at its new two-story main office slated to open Nov. 25. “We are able to serve two customers at the same time,” said the spokesman. Tellers using cameras in the branch can spot bottlenecks and direct traffic. The VATs at the new office will also be equipped with the AdCue message board produced by Data Concepts Inc. of Nashville. “Members while waiting in line can view CNN news taken from the Internet,” said the spokesman noting the news flow is also interspersed with product messages from the CU. John Slayton, executive director of sales for Data Concepts, said he has seen a growing number of banks and CUs for the service in recent months including several in Kentucky that have found University of Kentucky basketball games popular feeds on the TV screens for customers waiting in lines. Fort Knox Federal, which in August announced expanded check imaging and wider use of electronic statements on its in-home internet service, said the new main office-along with double stacking-reflects the CU’s efforts to provide “the latest in computer and communications technologies” to its members. The 32,000 square foot building will house full branch operations, a complete loan department as well as administrative offices. -