On May 2, 2025, NBT Bancorp Inc. (NASDAQ: NBTB) officially completed its much-anticipated merger with Evans Bancorp Inc., and it is a game-changer for both customers and the competitive banking landscape in New York.
The merger drops 18 new branches into NBT Bank’s lap,14 in Buffalo and 4 in greater Rochester, boosting its network to 175 branches across seven states. That’s not just expansion; that’s strategic domination of Western New York.
More than 40,000 Evans customers are now part of the NBT family. If you’re in Buffalo or Rochester, get ready to see a lot more of that navy-blue NBT logo.
And get this, NBT isn’t just gobbling up territory; they’re keeping the local flavor. Three former Evans execs are joining the NBT crew:
Ken Pawlak – Now President of the Western Region of New York & Buffalo Regional President
Tim Brown – Rochester Regional President
Audrey Meyers – Senior Territory Manager for Retail Banking in Buffalo & Rochester
This means customers get fresh service with familiar faces.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Evans’ employees and customers into the NBT family,” said NBT CEO Scott Kingsley. “Buffalo and Rochester are a natural fit for our growing footprint.”
Joseph Stagliano, President of NBT Bank, added:
“Bringing on Evans’ leadership gives us the continuity and regional know-how to keep customers happy and service strong.”
Later this month, former Evans CEO David J. Nasca will also join the NBT board of directors, adding even more local insight to the table.
For investors, NBT’s total assets stand tall at $13.86 billion, and this expansion could mean even stronger market positioning and long-term growth. For customers, more branches, more resources, and seamless banking experiences (thanks to a core systems conversion over the weekend).
Meanwhile, for communities, a bigger NBT footprint means deeper roots and more financial support in Upstate towns and cities.
This is NBT planting a bold flag in Western New York with smart leadership, seamless execution, and a strong customer-first message.
