Union Bankshares, Inc. announced in September 2023 its plan to unify the organization under a common name and bank charter. That unification was completed on Saturday, February 17. The organization now exists under one bank charter, Union Bank.
The two had been sister banks under the same ownership and management since 2005. Union Bank CEO and Paris resident Jarrod Yarnell explained that it was not a decision taken lightly but one that would ultimately be the most advantageous for our customers.
The bank closed on Friday February 16 as First National Bank at Paris and re-opened Tuesday, February 20 as Union Bank. The unification affected branches in Paris, Caulksville, Waldron, Booneville, Clarksville, and Ozark. Customers will now also gain three additional locations in West Central Arkansas to include Mena, Hatfield and Wickes.
Yarnell added, “This unification will allow us to fully leverage our combined strengths, as we continually invest in our customers and communities.” Steven Sosebee will serve as the River Valley market president. He added, “Our allegiance to our communities is stronger than ever.”
Yarnell explained that interruptions to banking service were minimal. “A testament to the loyalty of our customers, they have worked with us and through a few bugs. Now, we are proud to say that business is back to usual,” he added proudly.
Union Bank is an independent community bank, established in 1934, in Mena, Ark.
