With the evolution to more self-service interactions, instant card issuance provides members with a good reason to visit credit unions, which can then deliver securely activated cards directly into their hands.

It also provides members with human contact while improving satisfaction and the opportunity for credit unions to cross-sell other products and services, and improve revenue.

"Instant, convenient and on consumers' terms aren't just the driving forces for digital channels – they're also changing people's expectations for the physical branch," a Fiserv report, "As the Branch Transforms, Immediate Card Delivery Offers Instant Satisfaction," declared. "As the branch continues to evolve from transactional to high-touch service, instant card issuance is one of those services consumers will appreciate – and increasingly expect."