It's easy to find a cafe in Tokyo's chic Omotesando district, but finding one with online banking service is a different matter altogether.
On Feb. 11, Shinsei Bank and Italian appliance manufacturer DeLonghi will jointly open a banking cafe in Omotesando Hills -- the new multipurpose commercial complex designed by renowned architect Tadao Ando.
Shinsei Bank DeLonghi Cafe will combine a bank -- the Omotesando outlet of Shinsei's Shibuya branch -- with a cafe run by the Italian firm so customers can stretch out and sip cappuccinos on the sofa while doing their banking on the Internet.
The novel partnership enables them to do "something unique and different, which is important to our entire banking model," Shinsei Bank President Thierry Porte said at an opening ceremony Thursday.
"Together with Shinsei Bank, we will provide a new style of space," said DeLonghi Japan Corp. President Patrick Lauer.
In addition to banking terminals, the cafe will have several automated teller machines and staff who can open new bank accounts.
In the cafe part of the establishment, customers can order focaccia sandwiches in the daytime and wine and cocktails at night. DeLonghi will also market a line of Italian food products ranging from pasta and olive oil to jam and coffee beans -- as well as its home appliances.
