Prnewswire·2026-01-02 14:40Core Insights - Bank First Corporation has completed the acquisition of Centre 1 Bancorp, Inc., enhancing its service offerings and expanding its market presence [1][2]. Group 1: Acquisition Details - The acquisition marks a significant milestone in merging two relationship-driven organizations, allowing Bank First to expand its services to include trust and wealth management [2]. - First National Bank and Trust will operate as a division of Bank First until a planned system conversion in May 2026, after which all locations will transition to the Bank First brand [3]. Group 2: Operational Impact - The combined organization will operate 38 branch locations across Wisconsin and the Stateline area of Illinois, with approximately $6 billion in assets, enhancing its service capabilities [4]. - The partnership aims to strengthen customer service across the regions by providing a comprehensive suite of wealth planning, trust administration, and investment management services [2][5]. Group 3: Leadership and Advisory - Following the acquisition, Steve Eldred, CEO of Centre, will join the Board of Directors of Bank First [5]. - Piper Sandler & Co. and Hovde Group, LLC served as financial advisors for Bank First and Centre, respectively, with legal counsel provided by Alston & Bird LLP and Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLP [6].