New Research Reveals Credit Unions’ Opportunities for Digital Transformation Amid Rising Demand

A new report published by financial services supporting body, Future Finance, reveals the challenges and opportunities facing UK credit unions as they navigate technological and customer transformation. The research suggests that while credit union membership grew by 5.15% last year, reaching 2.1 million members, significant growth opportunities exist for their membership, but these institutions still struggle with digital adoption. 

The report, part of Future Finance’s Technology Insights Series, identifies key barriers preventing small and medium-sized credit unions from embracing innovation, including perceived technical skills gaps, competition from FinTech market entrants, and operational inefficiencies. Despite these challenges, loans to members increased by 21.4% to £2.3 billion in the past year, underlining the sector’s vital role in financial inclusion.

Anthonia Onyeahialam, Senior Research Associate at the University of Bristol commented “Credit unions are at a crucial crossroads. While they continue to serve a critical role in supporting financial inclusion, many are struggling to keep pace with the digital expectations of existing and potential younger members.”

The research findings highlight four key technologies that could transform credit union operations:

• Open Banking: Enabling real-time access to financial data for improved loan decisions
• Analytical AI: Supporting predictive analysis for better risk assessment and member acquisition
• Generative AI: Enhancing customer service through 24/7 automated assistance
• Blockchain: Strengthening security and streamlining compliance processes

The whitepaper and its findings were presented at an industry event in Glasgow earlier this month. Hosted by Felix Honecker, the Future Finance Exchange event brought together industry professionals, academics, and technology providers, and featured a panel discussion exploring practical approaches to digital transformation in the sector.

The report also highlights support available to credit unions through the Future Finance Accelerator programme, which offers networking opportunities, training resources, and funded consultancy to prepare for technology implementation.

The full report can be found here.

For more information about Future Finance visit: www.future-finance.tech/