MUSCAT -- National Bank of Oman (NBO), the oldest established commercial bank in the Sultanate, launched a new corporate identity that embodies the Bank's core values. The rebranding establishes the platform for the Bank's future development plans and is closely aligned with Oman's traditional values and aspirational vision for the future.
The new corporate identity was unveiled at a press conference held at the Grand Hyatt Muscat. The launch event was attended by NBO's board members, government officials, the Bank's senior management staff and media representatives. At the heart of the new identity is National Bank of Oman's new logo. Inspired by the National flag of Oman, the new logo incorporates the trilogy of the country's national colours presented in the shape of the flag as it gently unfurls in the breeze.
Murray Sims, NBO'S Chief Executive Officer said: "Launching a new identity heralds a new vision, which is an important milestone for National Bank of Oman, for our staff, and for the dreams and aspirations of our customers. We are delighted that the new logo reflects our national identity. It encapsulates the bold new vision that we are laying out for the bank. More than just a change in identity, it signifies a new commitment and a new promise to our customers that is summed up in the new positioning statement: "For you. For our nation."
"Rendered in an internationally contemporary design, the new logo reflects the youth, vitality and forward-looking optimism of the Omani people," he said and added, "further inspiration is derived from the billowing sails of the trading ships that contributed so much to Oman's rich culture and heritage as well as the free-flowing Islamic decorative and calligraphic styles that adorn Oman's architecture, jewellery and other cultural expressions."
NBO's new identity is being applied to all of the bank's customer and stakeholder communication material including advertising, outdoor signages, billboards, marketing collateral and bank stationery. Adding further Sims said, "Inherent in the new identity are a set of core values, underpinning the brand and formulated to guide and inspire staff in delivering an enhanced customer experience, namely: the vision to take Oman forward by enriching the lives of its residents, the dynamism to constantly set new benchmarks by anticipating the needs of the market,·the success that comes from pushing the boundaries and achieving more, unwavering patriotism to have the best interests of Oman and its people at heart."
As part of introducing the new identity, select branches of the bank have been completely redesigned and refurbished to provide customers with a totally new environment and service quality experience. The very latest banking technology, user-friendly functionality and bright, contemporary interiors offer exceptional customer comfort and convenience.
National Bank of Oman, popularly known as Al Watani, was the first bank in Oman and was established over 37 years ago. Since then, the Bank has won numerous accolades, most recently the 'Best Corporate Social Responsibility Award 2008' from World Finance Magazine UK and the 'Best Regional Award for Corporate Governance 2008' from the Hawkamah Institute.
By Staff Reporter
© Oman Daily Observer 2009
