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Credit unions retain top rankings in customer service
Independent survey shows credit unions rank number one in many service categories

27 August 2009

Halifax, NS: For the fifth year in a row, an independent survey of thousands of Canadians has shown that credit unions rank first in overall customer service excellence among all financial institutions.

“We are delighted that Canadians have once again recognized the credit union difference,” says Bernie O’Neil, President and CEO of Credit Union Central of Nova Scotia. “Canada’s extensive credit union network succeeds in providing the services that customer-owners want and need.”

Synovate’s 2009 Best Banking Awards found credit unions ranked ahead of all banks and other financial institutions in the following categories:

• Overall Customer Service Excellence
• Values My Business
• Branch Service Excellence

“Our unique structure, in which our customers are also our owners, gives us an advantage over other financial institutions when it comes to understanding and meeting their needs,” says O’Neil. “This difference is why more than 168,000 customer-owners across Nova Scotia choose credit unions to provide their financial services.”

Credit unions also tied for first place across all financial institutions this year in the categories of Financial Planning and Advice, Recommend to Friends and Family, and Telephone Banking Excellence.

The Synovate Customer Service Index (CSI) 2009 survey had almost 39,000 responses among a regionally and demographically representative sample of Canadians. The 2009 Best Banking Awards are based on the combined results of ongoing quarterly Customer Service Index surveys ended August 2009. The CSI survey has been conducted annually since 1987.

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About Credit Unions: Credit unions are unique from other financial institutions in that they are owned by the people they serve. It’s a better relationship that ensures your needs always come first; giving you the power to take ownership of your financial future. The 434 credit unions affiliated with Canadian Central have assets of $114 billion and more than five million members. For more information about Nova Scotia Credit Unions, visit www.nscreditunions.ca.

About Synovate: Synovate, the market research arm of Aegis Group plc, generates consumer insights that drive competitive marketing solutions. The network provides clients with cohesive global support and a comprehensive suite of research solutions. Synovate employs more than 6,700 staff in 62 countries. For more information on Synovate visit www.synovate.com.

Media Contacts
Gina McFetridge
Manager, Marketing and Communications
Credit Union Central of Nova Scotia
902-493-4865
gmcfetridge@cucns.ca

Art Chamberlain
Manager, Media Relations
Credit Union Central of Canada
416-232-3466
chamberlaina@cucentral.com

Henrietta Sung
Marketing Manager
Synovate
416-964-6262, ext. 165
henrietta.sung@synovate.com