Bank First completes acquisition of First National Bank and Trust
2 Jan 2026
News
BELOIT — Bank First Corporation announced it has completed its acquisition of Centre 1 Bancorp, Inc., the parent company of The First National Bank and Trust Company.
Effective immediately, Bank First is expanding its services to include trust and wealth management, integrating a skilled team from First National Bank and Trust. Customers now have access to a comprehensive suite of wealth planning, trust administration, and investment management services, provided by a team of professionals with deep expertise and a strong commitment to delivering personalized solutions.
First National Bank and Trust will continue to operate as a division of Bank First until the planned system conversion in May 2026. At that time, all locations will transition to the unified Bank First brand and digital banking platform. Throughout this process, customers will continue to work with familiar local teams, ensuring personalized service and a smooth transition as we move forward together.
The combined organization will operate 38 branch locations across Wisconsin and the Stateline Area of Illinois, with approximately $6 billion in assets, strengthening its ability to serve individuals, businesses, and communities throughout the region.
“This partnership brings together two long-standing, community-focused institutions committed to responsive, relationship-based banking,” said Mike Molepske, chairmand and chief executive officer of Bank First. “Together, we strengthen our ability to serve customers across Wisconsin and the Stateline area of Illinois with greater capabilities and expanded services.”
Following the closing, Steve Eldred, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Centre/First National Bank and Trust, will join the Board of Directors of Bank First and its banking subsidiary, Bank First, N.A.
Piper Sandler & Co. served as financial advisor to Bank First, and Alston & Bird LLP served as legal counsel. Hovde Group, LLC served as financial advisor to Centre, and Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLP served as legal counsel.
First National Bank and Trust has 17 locations, including in Beloit, Janesville, Darien, Delavan, Monroe, Walworth and Williams Bay in Wisconsin, and Rockton, Roscoe and Winnebago in Illinois.
Bank First, based in Manitowoc, has 27 locations in Wisconsin.
More Topics
