On a visit to the local NIB branch this week, the Margin was cheered to note the bank has the "valued customer" close to its corporate heart.

Irish Marketing Surveys is ringing some customers to get their views on how the bank can improve its offerings. "We are continually seeking to improve our service," notices in NIB branches assure customers.

The timing of the initiative is indeed fortunate given the latest publicity about overcharging in the past. Readers will remember that last week NIB bank managers, accused of overcharging, said they at all times acted "in accordance with the directions of their employers". Clearly, some customers were more "valued" than others.