Bank of America announces commercial banking expansion into Ohio — Bankers to 'Blitz' the state with calling efforts

Business Wire, Oct 24, 1996

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 24, 1996--Thursday Bank of America announces a strategic initiative to expand its roster of middle-market business banking relationships throughout Ohio.

To kick off the expansion, teams of bankers will contact more than 600 corporate clients and prospects throughout Ohio during the first two weeks of November.

A primary provider of financial solutions to large corporations, the bank plans to increase its marketing efforts to Ohio's midsize businesses with annual sales between $50 million and $250 million.

``We hope to offer our corporate banking expertise and enhanced financial resources to benefit growing Ohio midsized businesses that may not have had access to these financial tools previously,'' said William M. Goodyear, chairman of Bank of America's Midwest regional bank. ``We bring an expansive international network and capital markets capabilities to a greater number of companies that can benefit.''

Goodyear added that Ohio's positive economy is a catalyst to the bank's expansion plans. ``We've always kept a close eye on Ohio, and several of our key clients are there,'' said Goodyear. ``The growing regional economy, coupled with our increased capital and product resources, makes this a good time to increase our prospecting efforts throughout the Midwest.''

To support the increased calling efforts, the bank's CEO and senior management team will be hosting a series of economic briefings for local business leaders in Cleveland on Nov. 6, Cincinnati on Nov. 12, and Columbus on Nov. 14.

In addition, Bank of America has developed an advertising campaign targeting top executives at Ohio companies. The campaign, which includes print advertising and radio spots, debuted in the Cleveland Plain Dealer, the Toledo Blade, the Cincinnati Inquirer, the Columbus Dispatch, and on local radio stations.

With assets of $242 billion, Bank of America is one of the largest commercial lenders in the United States. The bank focuses on meeting the capital and financial management needs of public and privately held businesses throughout the Midwest, nationally, and internationally.

Through its Private Bank, Bank of America also provides investment management, personal trust, and personal banking services to business owners, professionals, foundations, and private investors. -0- NOTE TO EDITOR: If you would be interested is speaking with the head of our Midwest Commercial Banking business, please call Jennifer Bally, 312/828-1736 to set up an interview. Our CEO and management team will be available for interviews in person in Cleveland on Nov. 6, Cincinnati on Nov. 12, and Columbus on Nov. 14.

CONTACT: Bank of America

Jennifer Bally, 312/828-1736