Bringing Two Michigan Banks Together

We’ve got answers to your questions!

By Nichole Kladder, Chief Marketing Officer, Mercantile Bank

It’s been just over a week since we shared some big news—Mercantile Bank is combining strengths with Eastern Michigan Bank (EMB). We’ve been energized by the support and kind words from so many of you.
Thank you for cheering us on!

This partnership is about more than just growth—it’s about deepening our roots in Michigan and bringing even more great banking experiences to the people and communities we care about. There’s still a lot of work to do behind the scenes, but in the meantime, we wanted to answer some of the most common questions we’ve been hearing.

Table of Contents

• What’s happening with the Eastern Michigan Bank partnership?

• Will the name of Eastern Michigan Bank change?

• What is core system transformation?

• Who will be leading the combined teams?

• Will any branches be closing?

• Can EMB customers use Mercantile branches or ATMs yet?

• Still have questions?

What’s happening with the Eastern Michigan Bank partnership?

Mercantile Bank is acquiring Eastern Michigan Bank, helping us continue our mission to deliver financial solutions that empower people to achieve their goals and dreams. As part of the plan, EMB’s branches, accounts, customer relationships, and other assets will become part of Mercantile Bank. The acquisition is expected to be finalized in Q4 of 2025.

Will the name of Eastern Michigan Bank change?

Eventually, yes—but not right away. For now, both Mercantile and Eastern will continue to operate using their current names and branding. We plan to transition to a single name – Mercantile Bank – in Q1 of 2027 as part of the core system transformation.

What is core system transformation?

A banking core is the internal system that enables a bank to be a bank. Mercantile will begin the process of planning a full core banking system transformation later this year in partnership with Jack Henry, an industry leading financial technology provider. While the technology system will be new to Mercantile, Eastern brings over 40 years of operational experience on the Jack Henry platform, offering valuable expertise to support a smooth and effective system transition. Upon completion in Q1 of 2027, the unified platform will greatly enhance operational efficiency and improve customer experience.

Who will be leading the combined teams?

You’ll still see the same friendly faces at EMB, and their leadership team isn’t going anywhere. Will Oldford, EMB’s current CEO, will step into a new role as Regional Market President and will report to Mercantile’s President and CEO, Ray Reitsma.

Will any branches be closing?

Nope! Since there’s no overlap in branch locations, we’re not planning—and haven’t even discussed—any branch closures.

Can EMB customers use Mercantile branches or ATMs yet?

Not just yet. Until the deal closes in late 2025, everything will stay separate. And even after that, we’ll need a little more time to fully connect our systems. We’ll be taking a close look at what’s possible for branch and ATM access during 2026 and early 2027, but there may still be some limitations during that period.

In summary, big news like this naturally brings big questions—and we’re here to keep you in the loop along the way. If you have any additional questions please reach out to our PR, Media Relations, and Advertising Officer, Monica Kreiger (mkreiger@mercbank.com).

Thanks again for your trust, support, and excitement as we move forward—together.