Associated Banc-Corp Strengthens Midwest Position with American National Corporation Merger
- Associated Banc-Corp merges with American National Corporation, enhancing market presence in the Midwest banking sector.
- The merger adds 33 branches to Associated, making it the second-largest bank in Omaha by deposit market share.
- Associated aims to deepen market presence and maintain strong community ties during the integration process.
Associated Banc-Corp Expands Midwest Presence Through Merger with American National Corporation
Associated Banc-Corp, a prominent player in the Midwest banking sector, solidifies its market position through a definitive merger agreement with American National Corporation, announced on December 1, 2025. This strategic move will see American National integrated into Associated, along with its banking subsidiary, American National Bank, merging into Associated Bank, N.A. With deep historical roots tracing back to 1861 for Associated and 1856 for American National, both institutions share a commitment to serving communities across the Midwest. The merger is set to create a stronger entity that leverages the strengths of both organizations to enhance customer service and expand market reach.
The merger significantly boosts Associated’s footprint, especially in key metropolitan areas. With nearly 200 branches across Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Missouri, and now adding American National’s 33 branches primarily in Nebraska, Minnesota, and Iowa, Associated emerges as a more formidable competitor. As of September 30, 2025, American National boasts total assets of $5.3 billion, with loans totaling $3.8 billion and deposits of $4.7 billion. Following the merger, Associated will become the second-largest bank in the Omaha metropolitan statistical area and the tenth largest in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area by deposit market share. This increased presence is expected to enhance Associated’s ability to serve a broader range of clients, particularly in these strategic markets.
Andy Harmening, President and CEO of Associated Banc-Corp, expresses enthusiasm about the merger, highlighting the opportunity to deepen their market presence and expand services in the Twin Cities while establishing a foothold in Omaha. Both companies emphasize a cultural alignment and a shared commitment to client and community growth, which is vital for a successful integration. Leaders from American National echo this sentiment, underscoring that the merger is not only financially attractive but also strategically beneficial for enhancing service delivery across the Midwest. This partnership is poised to create a more robust banking institution that prioritizes customer service and community engagement.
In addition to the merger details, both organizations acknowledge the importance of maintaining strong community ties and client relationships throughout the transition. The merger is expected to be completed in a manner that minimizes disruption to existing customers, allowing for a seamless integration of services. As Associated Banc-Corp continues to expand its influence in the Midwest, the merger with American National Corporation represents a significant step toward achieving its long-term growth strategy while remaining committed to the communities it serves.