BMO Bank of Montreal Continues to Expand in Greater Edmonton with Opening of
New Branch in Sherwood Park

SHERWOOD PARK, AB, March 1 /CNW/ - BMO Bank of Montreal today opened a new state-of-the-art branch at 4005 Clover Bar Road in Sherwood Park.

Branch Manager Colin Lechelt will lead a team of nine professionals who, collectively, will provide financial services advice in four languages: English, Arabic, Mandarin and Hebrew.

"BMO is committed to expanding its presence in Alberta and to providing an exceptional customer experience," said Lynda Taylor, District Vice-President, Northern Alberta, BMO Bank of Montreal. "The establishment of this new branch demonstrates our confidence in the future of Greater Edmonton where we now operate eight branches. And there's more to come, with another BMO branch to open in Belmont on March 15," she added.

"Sherwood Park residents will have access to expert financial advice, whether it's finding the right mortgage solution or planning for retirement. Our customers can start putting money back in their pockets by taking advantage of our BMO SmartSteps," added Ms Taylor.

    
    Customers can expect:
    -   A highly experienced team of in-house experts;
    -   Two Instabank automated banking machines (ABMs) accessible 24/7, plus
        a drive thru ABM;
    -   Full wheelchair accessibility and;
    -   A contemporary building with open space and floor-to-ceiling glass
        offices for more transparency.
    

"Our customers can be sure they will be met by a knowledgeable professional who will sit down and help them understand our products and services, so they can confidently make the right decisions with their money," said Branch Manager Colin Lechelt. "We are committed to providing every one of our customers with the best banking experience."

Hours of operation for BMO's Summerwood Branch are:

    
    Monday to Wednesday         9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

    Thursday & Friday           9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
    

"BMO is committed to Making Money Make Sense for our customers, especially during these economic times," added Ms. Taylor. "We are pleased to offer historically low mortgage rates and advice. First-time homebuyers have the ability to lock in at a low rate and if they are not ready to buy at this time, our First Home Essentials Kit can provide a step-by-step guide to entering the real estate market."

Customers of the new BMO branch will be able to take advantage of the BMO SmartSteps program, which provides a straightforward approach to savings through lower fees, lower interest costs and minimizing taxes. "We also want to bring clarity to home financing decisions, by providing expert advice and tips to our customers on how to shorten their mortgage amortization and save thousands of dollars," said Mr. Lechelt.

BMO's Corporate Social Responsibility in Edmonton

BMO Bank of Montreal has played an active role in the Edmonton community since 1903. The bank donates to numerous local charitable organizations, including the United Way Alberta Capital Region, Concordia College, the Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute, Grant McEwan Community College and the Royal Alexandra & Lois Hole Hospitals.

For further information: Media Contact: Sarah Bensadoun, Montreal, [email protected], [phone], Internet: www.bmo.com