LEWISTON, ME -- (Marketwire) -- 11/06/09 -- Androscoggin Bank, a community leader in financial services, today announced the grand opening of its new Bank and Investment Center, located at 130 Middle Street in Portland. The unique, dialogue banking branch is the first of its kind in Portland and marks the bank's first foray into this operational model. The location features a modern open-concept design, standalone customer service pods and business solution specialists trained to advise on a full range of products and services. The Androscoggin Bank and Investment Center is hosting a full day of activities today to celebrate the new location, which officially opened for business on Oct. 26. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The bank's Grand Opening will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony with remarks from company officials, as well as Portland City Councilman Nick Mavodones Jr., and Greg Mitchell, division director of the city of Portland Economic Development Division. The public is invited to enjoy a barbecue lunch followed by presentations on eDeposits and the best market opportunities in 2009. Festivities will end with the bank's participation in the First Friday Artwalk. Doors will be open for art walkers at 5 p.m., with drinks and hors d'oeuvres served until 8 p.m.

"The opening of our first branch in Portland and our entrance into the world of dialogue banking is particularly exciting for us since this isn't your typical branch," said Paul Andersen, chief operating officer of Androscoggin Bank. "More than ever, customers -- from individuals to small business owners to nonprofit organizations -- need personalized attention and a bank they can trust to help them accomplish their financial goals. We're excited to lend our expertise and our philanthropic efforts toward building a better community in Portland."

Unlike traditional banking, dialogue banking is centered on the customer experience. By removing physical barriers and working together at workstations, or pods, customers can truly collaborate with their business solution specialists. The pods feature "cash recyclers," automated cash handling equipment that enables bank employees to place the most focus on attending to the needs of their customers. Cash recyclers also deter theft and reduce cash drawer operations oversight, creating a safe, secure environment.

Five full-time employees and several employees who cycle in from other Androscoggin branches work at the 2,800-square-foot-space, which features inviting, distinct décor -- from the bright blue paint on the walls to modern track lighting. Inspirational quotes from the likes of B.C. Forbes and Ayn Rand are also a prominent part of the interior design, underscoring the bank's commitment to helping those in need. Androscoggin Bank invested $500,000 in the branch, which touts two 42-inch plasma TVs broadcasting financial network news and information about the bank's services, a coffee lounge and two computers for customers to conduct online banking. The bank also plans to provide free Wi-Fi in the coming months.

About Androscoggin Bank

Founded in 1870, Androscoggin Bank provides financial services to individuals, businesses, governments and municipalities. Androscoggin Bank currently serves communities throughout central and mid-coast Maine with branch locations in Auburn, Brunswick, Gray, Jay, Lewiston, Lisbon Falls, Livermore Falls, South Paris, Turner and now, Portland.

For more information on Androscoggin Bank, visit www.androscogginbank.com.

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