The merger deal that made Great Western Bank an operating division of First Interstate Bank became official Feb. 1, and the signs at the Perry location reading First Interstate will be installed May 23.
“We are excited to join forces with First Interstate,” said Trace Schmitt, branch manager for Great Western Bank in Perry, “because it creates additional opportunities for our clients, including additional branch locations, new products and services and an enhanced digital experience.”
The Perry branch of Great Western Bank opened in 2012 in the former First Federal Savings Bank offices at 1111 141st St.
“First Interstate’s service delivery and philosophy closely mirrors our own,” Schmitt said. “They are committed to business development and infusing philanthropic support in the communities they serve through donation, sponsorship and volunteer support. Our clients and the community of Perry will benefit from this partnership.”
Founded in 1968, First Interstate Bank is headquartered in Billings, Montana, and operates in more than 150 locations across Idaho, Montana, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington and Wyoming. Great Western Bank, dating to 1935 and based in Sioux Falls, S.D., has some 170 locations across Arizona, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota.
“After we successfully convert Great Western to First Interstate in May, our combined company will offer more than 300 branch locations across 14 states, stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Mississippi River,” said Kevin P. Riley, president and CEO of First Interstate BancSystem Inc.
Riley said the Perry customers can expect to continue working with Schmitt and the other local bankers they know and trust after the merger is complete.
“The company culture and core values of our individual institutions overlap in such a remarkable way that converting Great Western clients to First Interstate should feel seamless,” he said.
