BlueShore Financial and Beem Credit Union merged on January 1, 2025, forming one of the province’s largest provincially regulated credit unions. This union not only marks a strategic alignment for the digital future but also a poignant return to shared beginnings.
Shared history, shared future
More than 80 years ago, both BlueShore and Beem were founded by small groups of British Columbians who believed in the power of community-based banking. Both institutions were started in the early 1940s by working-class people who shared a challenge when it came to accessing credit from traditional banks.
This shared origin story—rooted in the needs of the fishers and businesses of their community—adds a powerful historical symmetry to the merger. Now, more than eight decades later, these organizations are uniting to meet the needs of a new generation—this time through digital innovation and personalized service.
The combined credit union is Beem Credit Union, with BlueShore Financial continuing as “a division of Beem Credit Union” during a transition period to mid-2026. Together, they will serve nearly 200,000 members across 66 branches, with $17 billion in assets under administration.
“This is more than a merger—it’s a union of shared values and an investment in our future,” said Ian Thomas, President of BlueShore Financial. “Both organizations were founded on the belief that financial institutions should serve people and communities. Today, we’re building on that legacy with a renewed focus on innovation, digital transformation and personalized service.”
Beem Credit Union brings together shared values, innovation and personalized service for nearly 200,000 members across 66 branches. Photo via BlueShore Financial
Innovation leads the way
The merger reflects a shared commitment to modernize the member experience. Both institutions have been recognized for their forward-thinking approaches—BlueShore for its boutique Financial Spa® model and personalized advice and Beem for its digital innovation strategy. Together, they aim to set a new standard for community banking in BC.
“We’re combining our strengths to create something greater than the sum of its parts. Our members can expect more access, more innovation and more support—without losing the personal touch that defines us,” said Brian Harris, president and CEO of Beem Credit Union.
Human connection with digital ease will be a focus as fintech companies and the expectations of a generation of digital natives continue to reshape the financial landscape. Beem and BlueShore recognize that staying competitive means embracing innovation.
Today’s members expect seamless digital experiences, from mobile banking to AI-driven financial advice. By merging, the two credit unions are not only expanding their physical footprint but also pooling resources to accelerate digital transformation—ensuring that co-operative banking remains relevant, resilient and responsive in a rapidly evolving market.
For updates and more information, visit beemcreditunion.ca.
