Local savings banks have contributed to settlement, economic development and security for private customers and the business sector in Norwegian local communities for almost 200 years. The local banks in the Eika Alliance are fully independent and control their own strategy, brand and visual identity. A local presence, advisers with integrated financial expertise, and a clear commitment to their customers and the local community will also ensure them a strong position in the future. The local bank is moreover a trusted and important adviser to the local business community, with the emphasis on small and medium-sized enterprises. Through their philanthropic donations, too, the banks in the alliance contribute to innovation, growth and development by financing culture, sports and voluntary organisations. Levels of customer satisfaction with and loyalty to the alliance banks in Eika are among the highest in Norway in both private and company markets.