First State Bank of Arcadia now Crews Bank & Trust

First State Bank of Arcadia is now Crews Bank & Trust. The new name echoes that of the owner, Crews Banking Corp., a privately held bank holding company that operates three other Central and Southwest Florida financial institutions.

“Everything about who First State Bank of Arcadia is at its core will remain the same,” said CEO Jake Crews, a fourth-generation Crews family member whose great-grandfather, J.W. Crews Sr., started it all at Wauchula State Bank in 1929. “There’s no change in ownership, no change in the way we do business.”

Wauchula State Bank was followed by First State Bank of Arcadia in 1973. The two other banks under the Crews umbrella are Charlotte State Bank & Trust and Englewood Bank & Trust, established in 1987 and 1988, respectively.

“By directly incorporating the Crews family name at First State, we’re identifying ourselves as a true independent community bank, while simultaneously setting us up for growth and expansion,” Crews said. “As a family-owned business ourselves, we understand the importance and responsibility in serving the people and the businesses of Florida. We will continue to grow, delivering more resources and financial services — not just as a local bank, but also as a larger community player.”

There will be updates to the First State/Crews Bank brand’s look and feel, which Crews and bank President Kevin Hagan said were designed to help modernize the bank and help it continue to thrive in an era of growth and expansion. The bank operates a satellite loan-production office in Manatee County and will open a full-service office in Sarasota County soon.

“While our name has changed, our commitment to serving our customers has not wavered,” Crews said. “In fact, the legacy of our shared bond is now permanently reflected in our new motto: ‘A Lifetime of Trust.’ ”

“We will continue to provide the personal and business banking products and services our customers have come to rely on,” said Hagan, “an all-service bank with the personal touch of a neighbor. All decisions are made locally and quickly.”

Increased service capabilities at the renamed bank include trust and investment management services, headed by Chief Investment Officer Michael Aloian and offered at the current First State Bank of Arcadia branches.

“This addition will help give new purpose to our organization and signal a renewed vitality to the markets we serve,” said Aloian.

Crews, Hagan, and Aloian are committed to making sure Crews Bank & Trust remains Arcadia’s Hometown Bank.