Starling is to sponsor Manchester’s public cycle scheme, further bolstering the neobank’s sustainability credentials.
Using the new name Starling Bank Bikes, the scheme will add Starling’s logo to the bike frames, back wheel fender and stands. The scheme was launched in November 2021 and now boasts 72,000 active users.
The tie-in follows Starling sponsoring other sustainable transportation projects, such as InstaVolt’s electric vehicle charging points. The bank doesn’t invest in fossil fuels and offsets its own carbon emissions.
It also comes after Starling chose the city as the headquarters for its northern expansion.
Susanna Yallop, Chief People Officer at Starling Bank said: “There was no question that Manchester would be home to our next phase of growth; we’ve hired some incredible talent here and have ambitious plans for further job creation. We look forward to seeing how our investment in Starling Bank Bikes will boost the breadth of the cycle scheme, and Starling’s presence in the North.”
Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester Mayor said: “The bikes have become part of the city’s fabric over the last two years and support our Bee Network ambition to deliver transport options that are affordable, convenient and sustainable.”
The neobank recently launched a new brand platform, around stories of its ordinary customers.
‘The Bank Built for You’ focuses on highlighting how banking services fit into everyday life through three short ad spots. Set to run for an initial three months, the ads will feature in primetime spots on Sky, Channel 4 and ITV, as well as out-of-home, BVOD, digital, radio and social.
The launch comes as Starling reaches 4.1 million customer accounts, touting ambitious growth figures for this year as it seeks to IPO. The neobank has expanded its marketing function by 25% and plans to make more hires this year.
