Commercial Lending

Eugene Cornelius Jr., Michigan District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration; Thomas G. Zernick, Community Bank President, Lansing, Republic Bank; Ramona F. Moore, SBA Quality Control Officer, Republic Bank

The cornerstone to the success of our commercial lending group is the consistent drive to achieve the highest level of customer satisfaction by providing expertise and extraordinary service. Our Commercial Loan Officers take the time to build lasting relationships with their customers. This involves personally meeting with business owners and commercial developers at their place of business or project site in order to learn about the business venture and gather the necessary information to process the loan request. Our customers appreciate this approach, because it affords them the opportunity to discuss various issues at length, on a one-on-one basis.

As a result of the commercial lending group’s commitment to customer service, the Company has experienced significant growth in the volumeof commercial loans. In 1999, commercial loan closings grew 12% to a record $461 million.

No. 1 SBA Lender in the State of Michigan

Republic Bank closed more small business loans than any other SBA lender in Michigan and, for the sixth year in a row, was recognized by the Small Business Administration as the top provider of SBA loans to Michigan businesses. Republic Bank is also designated as a Preferred Lender by the Small Business Administration in Michigan, which allows Republic Bank to provide direct approval on small business loans, thus enabling our Commercial Loan Officers to respond quickly to business owners’ requests for financing.

“After lending more than $160 million over the past six years, Republic Bank continues to set records in Michigan,” said Eugene Cornelius Jr., Michigan District Director, U.S. Small Business Administration. “We appreciate their commitment to the SBA lending programs and are proud to count them as part of the SBA team. They truly are a friend to small business.”

Retail Banking

Republic Bank has been a pioneer in providing outstanding personal service to its customers.

Through our 87 retail banking offices in Michigan, Ohio and Indiana we provide a full range of deposit, home equity and personal loan products. In addition, our customers can access their accounts through 154 ATMs in Michigan and Ohio.

What sets Republic apart, however, is our commitment to the highest quality customer service in the industry. Our personal bankers have the professional training, product knowledge and dedication to distinctive personal service that make banking with Republic a unique experience.

When you enter a Republic office you will immediately see the difference. You will be greeted with a smile and willingness to help. Our facilities provide an atmosphere which allows our customers to conduct banking transactions in a highly professional environment.

Everything about Republic, from our customer-friendly facilities to our exceptional banking staff, is designed to provide excellence in personal service to our clients.

Shannon M. Schubert, a Personal
Banker at our Republic Bank —
Ann Arbor office, assists a customer.