American Savings Bank Case Study
CASE STUDY: FSI Helps American Savings Bank Return to Lahaina After Devastating Wildfire
When the August 2023 wildfire devastated Lahaina—causing an estimated $5.5 billion in damages—it disrupted more than homes and businesses. Essential services, including access to local banking, were suddenly gone.
For American Savings Bank, the loss of its Lahaina branch meant customers had to travel across the island for basic financial needs. Determined to restore access and help bring normalcy back to the community, the bank turned to a trusted partner: Financial Supermarkets, Inc. (FSI).
A Trusted Partnership Reignited
FSI’s relationship with American Savings Bank dates back to the early 2000s, when the two collaborated on multiple in-store branch builds across Hawaii. In 2023, following the wildfire and inspired by FSI’s successful recovery-focused work with other institutions, the bank re-engaged FSI to lead the Lahaina rebuild.
Modular Design Meets Urgent Need
The project required rebuilding a fully functional bank branch inside Maui’s only enclosed shopping center, Cannery Mall, using a modular kiosk format—quickly and with limited permitting, all while the island faced material and labor shortages.
FSI’s design-build delivery model proved critical. Leveraging an exclusive partnership with a licensed general contractor and architect operating in all 50 states, FSI accelerated approvals and construction timelines.
- Design approved: December 2024
- Construction began: January 2025 (FSI headquarters, Georgia)
- On-site installation completed in just 10 days
- Branch turned over to the bank in under six months from contract to completion
The finished modular unit—pre-wired with conduit for rapid installation—was shipped by container and installed between March 21 and March 28, 2025.
Results That Matter
The new Lahaina branch includes:
- Two teller windows
- A private consultation space
- Two full-service ATMs
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held in May 2025, marking the return of in-person banking to Lahaina after nearly 17 months without local access.
Community Impact Beyond the Branch
The rebuilt branch is more than a physical space—it’s a symbol of resilience and recovery.
To reinforce its commitment to Lahaina, American Savings Bank donated $10,000 to Maui Economic Opportunity, adding to more than $550,000 in wildfire recovery contributions across the island.
“We’re grateful to have American Savings Bank back in Lahaina,” said Maui County Mayor Richard Bissen. “Their continued presence and support reflect their commitment to our community as we move forward together.”
More Than a Project—A Purpose
“For FSI, this wasn’t just a job,” said Roy Bell, CEO of FSI. “It was about restoring a vital part of daily life for a community that had lost so much. We’re proud to have played a role in bringing that sense of normalcy back.”
This project represents FSI’s third branch build in Hawaii for American Savings Bank and underscores FSI’s expertise in delivering fast, flexible banking environments—especially when communities need them most.