Asheville has been drawing young people and retirees for decades, some for the cooler weather or the counter-cultural vibe. As home prices and rents have risen, young folks and others with more modest incomes have settled on the outskirts.

Champion CU has been gaining members in Henderson County and elsewhere on the edges of its territory, in part, through aggressive indirect car lending and mortgages. Also, residents are keen to buy local and buy through co-ops, said Noralynn Gudger, the credit union's marketing and communications manager.

Champion CU is the oldest credit union in an area where residents are familiar with cooperative principals, forming co-ops for foods and crafts that have lasted decades. But Champion CU had no office in one of the largest counties in its territory.

“The absence of a physical presence in Henderson County represents a significant void in one of the largest markets in our community charter,” Robinson said. “While we have been successful in acquiring members through business, indirect, and mortgage channels, we have struggled to develop primary banking relationships because of the convenience barrier. Beginning today, we will be breaking down that barrier.”