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HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | OCTOBER 6, 2025 9 P eoplesBank has long main- tained a strong presence in commercial banking, but in recent years, it has significantly expanded its retail footprint across Connecticut. In 2025 alone, the bank secured naming rights for the newly christened PeoplesBank Arena (the former XL Center) and opened new banking centers in Avon and Glastonbury. Still to come are a new banking center and a 5,000-square-foot corporate hub in downtown Hartford, staffed by 15–20 associates, as well as a new location in New Britain. A Mutual Bank with a Mission "Our bank is independent and community-focused," said Tom Senecal, CEO and Chairman of PeoplesBank Arena and Beyond: A Bold Commitment to Connecticut and look forward to contributing to the economic rebirth of the Arena neighborhood, the City of Hartford, and the State of Connecticut." Customer-Centric Commercial Services With $4.3 billion in assets, Peo- plesBank has long been a major player in Connecticut's commer- cial market. "Help with business strategy is critical to our success and ability to help patients," said Dr. Daniel J. Mastella, a commercial cli- ent. "The PeoplesBank team is interested in what we need and ensures we get it. Their respon- siveness is critical to our success, and we are very grateful." "We provide efficient, user-friend- Member FDIC Retail Growth and Innovation PeoplesBank began building its Connecticut retail presence in 2018 with the acquisition of First National Bank of Suffield, followed by new centers in West Hartford (2020), South Wind- sor (2024), Avon (2025), and Glastonbury (2025) with plans for Hartford and other locations throughout Connecticut. "Our recipe for success is real simple banking," said Romika Odedra, Vice President and Regional Manager. "Our front- line associates are empowered to make decisions, so customers don't have to wait days for a response. And our VideoBanker- ITMs allow banking seven days a week—with extended hours." "We go above and beyond every day for our customers," said Joann Uribe, Banking Center Manager in Avon. "Every bank offers checking and savings ac- counts. What sets us apart is the customer experience." Commitment to Community Impact PeoplesBank is also a recognized leader in corporate responsi- bility. For the third consecutive year, it has donated more than $1.6 million to over 500 local charitable organizations. In addi- tion, employees have contribut- ed over 8,500 volunteer hours to these and other causes. "Supporting nonprofits is part of our DNA," said Matthew Bannister, Senior Vice President of Corporate Responsibility at PeoplesBank. "We give back through financial support and hands-on volunteering—whether it's serving on boards, renovat- ing homes for disabled veterans, or cleaning up local neighbor- hoods." Building on Momentum As PeoplesBank continues to deepen its roots in Connecti- cut, its strategic investments, customer-first philosophy, and unwavering commitment to community impact position it as more than just a financial insti- tution—it's a trusted partner in the state's economic and social growth. With a clear vision and a strong foundation, PeoplesBank is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping Connecticut's future. "We are PeoplesBank, a mutual bank— not owned by shareholders, but by our depositors." Tom Senecal, CEO and Chairman of PeoplesBank For the third consecutive year, PeoplesBank has donated more than $1.6 million to over 500 local charitable organizations. bankatpeoples.com Watch Video PeoplesBank, during the arena naming announcement. "We are PeoplesBank, a mutual bank— not owned by shareholders, but by our depositors. PeoplesBank will never be bought or sold, which gives us a competitive ad - vantage in this state. We believe in Hartford's promising future ly cash management services so our customers can focus on running their businesses," added Daniel Bishop, First Vice Presi- dent of Commercial Banking at PeoplesBank. "With local, quick decision-making, we can also deliver the financing they need to grow."