Diebold Directs Optimization of FirstMerit Bank's Branch Network

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, May 13, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- How many branches and automated teller machines (ATMs) are ideal? Where should they be located? What service model should each branch follow? FirstMerit Bank, N.A. has partnered with Diebold, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) to answer these and other important questions as part of a comprehensive assessment of the bank's branch and self-service networks in select markets. Managed by Diebold Advisory Services, the assessment will help FirstMerit optimize its operations to best meet localized consumer needs.

FirstMerit Bank, N.A. is an affiliate of FirstMerit Corporation, and operates more than 400 branches and more than 430 ATMs throughout Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Pennsylvania. Diebold Advisory Services' analysis will focus on understanding the effectiveness and value of FirstMerit's current operations in the Cleveland-Akron-Canton, Detroit and Chicago markets.

"FirstMerit is focused on improving customer experiences and operational efficiencies across our enterprise," said Jim Brocklehurst, executive vice president, retail banking, FirstMerit. "With Diebold's recommendations, we will ensure that we're accessible to our customers and that we're delivering the experience, solutions and services they desire."

To complete its assessment, Diebold Advisory Services will visit FirstMerit branch locations, interview key stakeholders, analyze banking channel usage data, review local demographics and assess branch performance metrics. Diebold's analysis of these and other factors will lead to recommendations on how to optimize the bank's distribution network in each market, as well as how to improve operational efficiencies and enhance the customer experience. For example, Diebold may recommend changes to enhance select branches by providing more self-service or assisted self-service capabilities which encourage bank representatives to focus more on collaborating with customers on more advanced needs.

"Diebold's Advisory Services can help FirstMerit enhance customer experience, drive operational efficiencies and improve sales effectiveness," said Raja Bose, vice president for branch transformation and advisory services, Diebold. "We have put together a team of highly experienced banking industry professionals who have assisted financial institutions around the world. We fully expect to apply this experience as we partner with FirstMerit as they embark on their branch transformation journey."

About FirstMerit
FirstMerit Corporation is a diversified financial services company headquartered in Akron, Ohio, with assets of approximately $23.9 billion as of December 31, 2013, and 404 banking offices and 431 ATM locations in Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Pennsylvania. Principal affiliates include: FirstMerit Bank, N.A., FirstMerit Mortgage Corporation and FirstMerit Title Agency, Ltd. For more information, visit www.firstmerit.com.

About Diebold
Diebold, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) is a global leader in providing innovative self-service technology, security systems and related services. Diebold has approximately 16,000 employees worldwide and is headquartered near Canton, Ohio, USA. Visit Diebold at www.diebold.com or on Twitter: http://twitter.com/DieboldInc.

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SOURCE Diebold, Incorporated