Bank First is Growing!

On Friday, July 18, 2025, the holding companies of Bank First and First National Bank and Trust have entered into a Definitive Agreement to merge in the coming year. This partnership brings together two strong, community-focused banks with a shared commitment to relationship banking and personalized service.

For full details, please refer to the official news release: Definitive Agreement Announcement 7-18-2025

merger highlights

Combines Two Strong Community Banks

Combines two strong, relationship-based deposit franchises with deep community roots and a shared focus on responsive, solutions-oriented service.

Strategic Geographic Alignment

Creates a strategic geographic fit, connecting complementary markets across Wisconsin and northern Illinois and strengthening our regional presence.

Expanded Financial Capacity

Increases our combined asset size to nearly $6 billion, enhancing our lending capacity to better serve a broader customer base and support growth across our markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are we merging?

Bank First customers will benefit from access to First National Bank and Trust’s wealth management services, further enriching the value Bank First provides. Bank First remains dedicated to delivering the personalized service its customers trust while continuing First National Bank and Trust’s proud tradition of giving back and strengthening the communities it serves. Centre shareholders and customers will benefit from Bank First’s 40% ownership interest in Ansay & Associates, an independent insurance agency providing integrated insurance, risk management, and benefit solutions to businesses, families, and individuals.

This partnership brings together two long-standing, community-focused institutions united by a shared commitment to responsive, relationship-based banking. The combination of our organizations enhances our ability to serve customers across Wisconsin and northern Illinois with greater capabilities and expanded resources.

Why First National Bank and Trust?

Bank First chose to partner with First National Bank and Trust because of their strong market presence, talented team, and deep community ties. This merger marks Bank First’s first expansion beyond Wisconsin and into vibrant communities like Janesville, Beloit, and Rockton. These markets offer strong potential for continued business development and long-term value creation. In addition, adding in-house wealth management solutions further enhances the combined organization’s ability to deliver personalized financial guidance.

How large is First National Bank and Trust?

First National Bank and Trust is a leading full-service financial institution with 17 locations across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin. As of June 30, 2025, they employed approximately 265 employees and reported assets of approximately $1.5 billion.

When will First National Bank and Trust become Bank First?

Pending regulatory and shareholder approvals, the merger is expected to close on January 1, 2026. The system conversion is anticipated in the second quarter of 2026. Until then, everything will operate as usual under the First National Bank and Trust name.

Will I have access to more locations?

Yes, eventually. Following the conversion in the second quarter of 2026, Bank First customers will have access to more branches in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

Can I go to a First National Bank and Trust location to make banking transactions?

Not yet. For services related to Bank First accounts, please continue to visit any of our locations until the system conversion. After conversion, you will be able to see any First National Bank and Trust location.