Triebhaus combines tradition and modernity for AEK Bank's 200th anniversary

To mark AEK Bank’s 200th anniversary, the Triebhaus agency has developed a brand experience concept that combines tradition and modernity in an unexpectedly vivid way. At the heart of the anniversary campaign is an object that ranks among the world’s oldest calculating tools: the abacus.

This calculating tool, which was already in use in ancient civilizations such as Babylon and China, symbolizes precision, durability, and quality craftsmanship. At the same time, even in our digital age, it conveys a clear message: True values stand the test of time. For AEK Bank, which has been rooted in the region since 1826, the abacus is thus a fitting symbol for its 200th anniversary.

Oversized abacuses as interactive elements

Triebhaus designed and produced oversized abacuses for AEK Bank’s 13 branches as well as for trade show appearances. The designs stand out for their high-quality materials—among other things, chrome steel balls were powder-coated and cut and engraved using laser technology. The objects feature the campaign slogan «Count on us—now and in the future» and serve as central engagement elements.

For the numerous events at which AEK performs, an event activation strategy was developed to align with the campaign. Using a web app, participants are presented with math problems, which they must solve on the abacus as quickly as possible. Once the problem is solved, the correct arrangement of the beads is displayed on the digital abacus. The combination of the analog abacus and the digital web app further highlights the theme of «Tradition Meets Modernity.».

A video and a game round out the campaign

Also part of the campaign is a video created in collaboration with language artist and podcaster Marco «Güschä» Gurtner. Using a humorous and accessible approach, he explains how the abacus works—and demonstrates how to use it for calculations. Through the abacuses placed at the point of sale (POS) and in the teller areas, customers can access not only the video but also a Online Game.

In addition, an AEK bus will be operating on the STI route network throughout the 2026 anniversary year, raising public awareness of the anniversary. Triebhaus handled the interior branding of the bus, where the abacus theme was once again incorporated in the form of spheres.

Person in charge at AEK Bank 1826: Simon Sutter (Head of Marketing and PR), Fabio Morgenthaler (Media Designer), Ramon Stettler (Media Specialist). Contact at Triebhaus: Adrian Kiener (Consulting, Concept, Direction), Bastian Siegenthaler (Concept, Production), Nina Hostettler (Project Management), Esther Zimmermann (3D, Graphic and UX Design), Marika Nygren (Art Direction), Marco Gurtner (Copy, Testimonial), Martina Kiener (Administration), Marcel Hadorn (Web Development), Mathieu Gabi (Director of Photography, Post-Production).