Our Buddy brings a friendly touch to banking

For many, money talk is always serious business; entering a bank can feel like stepping into a cold and intimidating world. However, Discovery Bank is taking a novel approach to shift existing perceptions about banking toward positive associations. Enter the newest member of the Discovery Bank family: the #DiscoveryBankBuddy. In celebration of having reached 1 million clients, a giant four-metre version of the Purple Buddy has been installed at 1 Discovery Place!

Creating a warm and friendly banking experience

These cuddly credit card companions are not just fond of banking but also adore the rewards Discovery Bank brings - like travel discounts, early access to concert tickets, and savings on healthy food and dining out. You might have seen the Discovery Bank Buddies capturing hearts on social media and on the Discovery Bank app login screen, enjoying skiing down snowy mountains, sipping coffee in a plush airport lounge, or cheering for the Bokke at the Rugby World Cup in 2023.

Firoze Bhorat, Chief Marketing Officer at Discovery, says, "These buddies are on a mission to make every banking experience with Discovery Bank even more enjoyable. From exploring the perks of Discovery Bank products to embarking on toy-sized adventures with our travel and other rewards, they'll show how all the fantastic features make life better and why Discovery Bank is SA's favourite bank. Everyone wants one!"

Inclusive design, inclusive banking

Discovery Bank Buddies are not just any set of plushie toys; they are inspired by the Bank's distinctive transaction cards - purple, black, platinum, and gold - and the forex account's card. Each of the five Buddies have a unique look to mirror the individuality of the Bank's diverse clientele. They are ageless and gender-neutral, underscoring the Bank's inclusive philosophy that its products are for everyone. Crafted to be soft to the touch and extremely huggable, the Buddies are a cheerful and comforting embodiment of the brand, aimed at putting a smile on everyone's faces.

Nostalgia and collectability

Like a treasured childhood stuffed toy might have offered comfort, a Discovery Bank Buddy is here to bring those same feelings of warmth and familiarity to the world of finance. This personalised and thoughtful approach makes each Buddy a sought-after collectible, appealing to young and old, evoking the nostalgia of a favourite fluffy toy. The whole family will want one in every colour!

Enhancing the brand experience

These adorable Discovery Bank Buddies aim to enhance the overall brand experience, adding a touch of fun and comfort to banking. Discovery Bank Buddies are more than just mascots, they are building a friendly banking environment that resonates with people of all ages. "Adding these endearing, tangible touches to Discovery Bank, and having a Buddy in your home, serves as a reminder that money and banking doesn't have to be an impersonal experience, but that it can be a source of joy and connection for everyone," says Bhorat.

How to join the fun

To get your hands on one of these cuddly credit cards and their special edition counterparts, follow Discovery Bank's social media pages. Then, stay tuned for their antics, giveaways, and maybe a surprise or two as they dive into the world of Discovery Bank innovations - with the hashtags #DiscoveryBankBuddy or #DiscoveryBankBuddies. Alternatively, you could visit Discovery Bank's new four-metre Buddy at 1 Discovery Place, Sandton, and snap a photo with the real Buddy!