M&A Advisory
K&L Gates
Full Credential Description
Bancshares of Ripley, Inc., the parent company of Bank of Ripley, faced the challenge of expanding its banking franchise and enhancing its service offerings to its customers. To address this, K&L Gates LLP facilitated a merger with Security Bancshares, Inc., the parent company of Security Bank and Trust Company. This strategic merger, completed in December 2024, aimed to broaden Security Bank's reach in West Tennessee and improve the product and service offerings available to the legacy Bank of Ripley customers. As a result of the merger, Security Bank now serves customers across six Tennessee counties and Fulton County, Kentucky, through a network of 16 office locations. This expansion not only increases the bank's footprint but also enhances customer access to a wider range of banking , thereby positioning Security Bank for future growth and improved customer satisfaction. The K&L Gates team, led by Nashville partner Adam Smith, provided comprehensive legal support throughout the merger process, ensuring a smooth transition and successful integration of the two banking entities.