First Bank Richmond and The Farmers Bank announced that their combined organization will operate under the new name First Bank Midwest, pending shareholder and regulatory approval.
The rebrand, which also includes Mutual Federal and its six Ohio offices, is scheduled to launch on 1 July 2026.
The new identity was unveiled alongside the official logo and brand system that will represent the merged institution.
Once the merger is complete, the combined bank will operate under parent company Richmond Mutual Bancorporation, Inc. (NASDAQ: RMBI), which will remain headquartered in Richmond, Indiana. The newly named First Bank Midwest will be headquartered in Frankfort, Indiana.
Executives from both banks described the announcement as a milestone in the merger process.
Garry Kleer, chairman and CEO of First Bank Richmond, said the new name “reflects the strength of our combined organizations while honouring the deep roots and trusted relationships that have defined our banks for generations.”
Christopher Cook, President and CEO of The Farmers Bank, added that the name preserves the heritage of both institutions while signalling a forward‑looking vision.
The brand rollout will begin in phases starting July 2026 and continue into early 2027. All First Bank Richmond, Farmers Bank, and Mutual Federal locations will continue operating normally during the transition.
Customers will receive updates through mail and email over the next nine to twelve months as signage, materials, and digital platforms are gradually updated.
The organization will also adopt a transitional tagline — “Rooted in tradition. Growing toward the future.” — intended to highlight the merger’s blend of legacy and long‑term ambition.
The merger between Richmond Mutual Bancorporation and Farmers Bancorp forms one of the region’s more significant community‑bank consolidations. The rebranding marks the next major step toward unifying operations, culture, and customer experience under a single identity.