Equity Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: EQBK), headquartered in Wichita and the parent company of Equity Bank, has announced the successful completion of its merger with Rockhold BanCorp, the holding company of the Bank of Kirksville in Kirksville, Missouri.
Brad Elliott, Chairman & CEO of Equity, expressed gratitude towards the Equity Bank team, including the newly integrated members from Bank of Kirksville, stating, “Our customers have grown to expect first-class service, and we’re pleased to offer a brand that emphasizes our communities and continues to deliver on expectations. We are eager to serve our new Missouri communities, customers, and team members.”
Following the merger, Bank of Kirksville’s locations transitioned into Equity Bank locations on February 10. The Company plans to streamline the core banking system and digital banking platform by May 2024.
With the merger announcement made on December 6, 2023, Equity’s Missouri presence now spans 24 locations, including three full-service locations in Kirksville, Missouri, alongside branches in La Plata, Downing, Memphis, Macon, and Moberly, Missouri. Norman Belitz will continue to lead each location as the Kirksville regional president of Equity Bank.
This merger marks Equity’s 22nd strategic transaction since its establishment in 2002, including 10 whole-bank acquisitions post its initial public offering in 2015.
“Our Equity team takes great pride in moving efficiently to welcome new teams, new locations, and delivering value for our new communities,” remarked Mr. Elliott. “Our Company will continue to pursue and evaluate strategic growth opportunities in 2024 and will seek to add franchise value to our teams, customers, and Equity shareholders
