Bank of Missouri parent acquires Countryside Bank

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Reliable Community Bancshares Inc., parent company of The Bank of Missouri headquartered in Perryville, Mo., has acquired Countryside Bank, with assets of $97 million.

The Bank of Missouri acquired Countryside Bank on Friday afternoon. The move adds branches in Republic, Mo., and Springfield to the company's presence in southwest Missouri, where the bank now has three branches.

With the acquisition of Countryside Bank, The Bank of Missouri now holds $700 million in assets and operates 13 locations throughout the state. Locations include Cape Girardeau, Jackson, Marble Hill, Mo., Perryville, Columbia, Mo., and Springfield.

According to a Springfield Business Journal article published Tuesday, all Countryside Bank employees will keep their jobs.

In a news release issued by the company Monday, executives voiced excitement over the news.

"We are excited that the customers and employees of Countryside Bank have joined The Bank of Missouri family," said David Crader, chief executive officer of The Bank of Missouri. "This acquisition creates a stronger presence, enhanced convenience, along with a broader array of banking products and services."

Countryside Bank president Jack Muench echoed the thought.

"I am delighted at the successful union between Countryside Bank and The Bank of Missouri," he said. "Our customers will now enjoy even better service, more locations and more ways to make the most of their money while still being greeted and taken care of by the same friendly faces they know and trust."

bblackwell@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 137