Northwest Bank to open first Columbus, Ohio area financial centers in 2026
When selecting locations, Northwest reviewed traffic patterns, population growth demographics and proximity to complementary high-traffic consumer retail businesses in each area. Expanding Northwest’s footprint to Columbus creates more contiguous coverage between existing core markets in Pittsburgh, PA and Indianapolis, IN. The exact opening dates of the Columbus, OH area financial centers will be shared closer to time.
These new financial centers will have a fundamentally different look and feel. The goal is for the financial centers to create a welcoming and comfortable environment and provide a sense of hospitality to its customers. The new design includes private meeting spaces and a universal banking model offering advanced self-service options.
“We know financial conversations can be intimidating, so we want our financial center environment to be comfortable and welcoming,” said Urich Bowers, Chief Consumer Banking and Strategy Officer. “While we know many transactions take place online and through our mobile app, our customer research shows they value the ability to visit physical branches, and it plays into where they choose to open an account. Our entire design philosophy is centered around hospitality and creating that welcoming and comfortable environment for both our customers and employees.”
This announcement comes two days after Northwest added 20 financial centers in Pennsylvania through a successful acquisition, all of which have subsequently been rebranded and now operate under the Northwest brand.
Northwest is working with Larson-Karle Architects, based in Warren, PA, on the building design and TENFOLD, based in Columbus, OH, on the interior environmental design.
In June, Northwest opened its first new full service financial center in six years in Fishers, Indiana.
A recording of the second quarter earnings call is available on Northwest.com.
About Northwest Bancshares, Inc
Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Northwest Bancshares, Inc. is the bank holding company of Northwest Bank. Founded in 1896, Northwest Bank is a full-service financial institution which offers a complete line of business and consumer banking products, as well as employee benefits and wealth management services. Currently, Northwest operates 151 full-service financial centers and eleven free standing drive-up facilities in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, and Indiana. Northwest Bancshares, Inc.'s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol NWBI. Additional information regarding Northwest Bancshares, Inc. and Northwest Bank can be accessed online at www.northwest.bank.
