Sparta's New Lakeland Bank Draws More Customers

Ever since Sparta's new state-of-the-art Lakeland Bank opened last month, the branch has seen an increase in customers using the bank and have been opening more accounts, according to Chief Operating Officer Bob Vandenbergh.

When the new branch on Town Center Drive opened on Sept. 29, the other two locations on Route 181 and Sparta Avenue Closed.

Vandenbergh says the inspiration of the planning for the new branch was because they were seeing a decrease in people using the banks in person with the increase of technology.

"Our thought was that we could consolidate and then have the ability to change the image and functionality of the branches because a lot of people have been using online banking and mobile banking and the ATMs more frequently," he said.

The new branch is unique from the former locations with its larger, 5,000 square foot space, and use of new technology including teller pod stations and ATM machines that allow automated deposits. The bank features new products and services for the customers that the other two locations didn't have, Vandenbergh said.

The location of the new branch was also what drew the employees to open at new spot.

"What attracted us is not only the draw of Stop & Shop but it changes the whole traffic flow for how vehicles are moving through Sparta," Vandenbergh said. "It's much easier for getting in and out and handing multiple needs whether it be shopping or banking."

The grand opening event on Sept. 29 was a big family event that drew dozens of people in the community for prizes, activities, and food. Yankee great Craig Nettles was also at the event signing autographs.

"We had a lot of people form the town there, families really enjoyed themselves," Vandenbergh said.