In a significant shift for Western New York’s banking landscape, M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing, impacting local communities and customers who rely on these locations for their financial needs. This decision, announced in early 2025, reflects broader trends in the banking industry as institutions adapt to evolving customer preferences and technological advancements. This article dives deep into the reasons behind the closures, their implications for customers and employees, alternative banking options, and what this means for the future of banking in the region.
Why Are M&T Bank Branches in Buffalo and Lockport Closing?
The banking sector is undergoing a transformation driven by digitalization and changing consumer habits. M&T Bank, a cornerstone of Western New York’s financial ecosystem, has confirmed that M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing to streamline operations and align with modern banking demands. Specifically, the branches at 1580 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo and 118 Walnut Street in Lockport will cease operations on June 12, 2025.
According to M&T Bank spokesperson Thea Pecht, the closures are part of a strategic review to ensure that M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing in areas where nearby locations can adequately serve customers. The decision stems from the proximity of other branches—such as the Delaware Hertel branch, approximately one mile from the Buffalo location, and the South Transit Road branch, less than two miles from the Lockport site. This consolidation reflects a broader industry trend where banks are reducing physical footprints to focus on digital platforms and operational efficiency.
The rise of online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs has reduced the need for traditional brick-and-mortar branches. As customers increasingly manage their finances through digital channels, M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing to redirect resources toward enhancing online services and maintaining a robust network of nearby branches.
Impact on Customers
The closure of M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing will affect customers who rely on in-person banking services. Those who frequent the Hertel Avenue branch in Buffalo or the Walnut Street branch in Lockport will need to adjust their routines. M&T Bank has emphasized that customers can transition to nearby locations with minimal disruption. For instance:
- Buffalo Customers: The Delaware Hertel branch, located roughly one mile away, offers full banking services, including safe deposit boxes and personalized customer support.
- Lockport Customers: The South Transit Road branch, less than two miles from the closing location, provides a convenient alternative.
M&T Bank has assured customers that M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing will not disrupt access to accounts. Online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs will remain fully operational, allowing customers to manage their finances seamlessly. Customers with safe deposit boxes at the affected branches will receive detailed instructions on transferring their belongings to nearby locations.
The closures highlight a growing reliance on digital banking solutions. M&T Bank’s mobile app offers features like mobile check deposit, bill pay, and real-time account monitoring, which may ease the transition for tech-savvy customers. However, for those who prefer in-person interactions, the shift may require adjustment, particularly for older customers or those less comfortable with digital platforms.
Employee Reassignments and Community Impact
A key concern with any branch closure is the impact on employees. M&T Bank has addressed this by ensuring that all affected staff from M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing will be offered positions at nearby branches or other local bank operations. This commitment reflects M&T’s dedication to its workforce, a critical factor given the bank’s deep roots in Buffalo, where it is headquartered.
The closure of M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing also raises questions about the economic impact on these communities. Local businesses near the closing branches may see reduced foot traffic, as bank visits often lead to patronage at nearby shops and restaurants. However, M&T Bank’s continued investment in Western New York, including its sponsorship of the Buffalo Bills and renovations of other Buffalo branches, suggests a long-term commitment to the region despite these closures.
The Bigger Picture: Banking Industry Trends
The closure of M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing is part of a broader trend in the banking industry. Across the United States, banks are reducing their physical presence as customers shift toward digital and mobile banking. According to industry reports, branch closures have accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic, with many banks closing 5-10% of their networks annually. M&T Bank’s decision aligns with competitors like KeyBank, which announced plans to close over 70 branches in 2024.
This shift is driven by several factors:
- Digital Adoption: Customers increasingly use online platforms for transactions, reducing the need for physical branches.
- Cost Efficiency: Maintaining brick-and-mortar locations is expensive, and banks are reallocating resources to digital infrastructure.
- Proximity of Branches: When branches are located close to one another, as in the case of M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing, consolidation allows banks to optimize their network without sacrificing service quality.
Despite these closures, M&T Bank remains a dominant player in Western New York, with over 950 branches across 12 states and Washington, D.C. The bank’s focus on community engagement, such as its Buffalo Promise Neighborhood initiative, underscores its commitment to the region even as M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing.
Alternative Banking Options for Affected Customers
For customers impacted by M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing, several alternatives are available:
- Nearby Branches: The Delaware Hertel branch in Buffalo and the South Transit Road branch in Lockport offer full-service banking, including loans, mortgages, and financial advisory services.
- Online Banking: M&T Bank’s online platform allows customers to check balances, transfer funds, pay bills, and deposit checks remotely.
- Mobile Apps: The M&T Bank app, available for iOS and Android, provides a user-friendly interface for managing accounts on the go.
- ATMs: M&T Bank operates a robust network of ATMs in Western New York, ensuring access to cash and basic transactions.
- Customer Support: M&T’s service center remains available for phone-based assistance, offering personalized support for complex banking needs.
These options ensure that customers affected by M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing can continue their banking activities without significant disruption.
The Future of Banking in Western New York
The closure of M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing signals a shift toward a hybrid banking model that balances physical and digital services. While some customers may mourn the loss of their local branch, M&T Bank’s investments in technology and community initiatives suggest a forward-thinking approach. For example, the bank’s recent $2 million investment in renovating four Buffalo East Side branches demonstrates its commitment to modernizing its infrastructure while maintaining a presence in underserved areas.
As M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing, the bank is likely to focus on enhancing digital offerings and optimizing its remaining branches. This aligns with customer expectations for seamless, technology-driven banking experiences. However, M&T Bank must also address the needs of customers who rely on in-person services, particularly in communities like Lockport, where alternative branches may be less accessible for some residents.
Conclusion
The closure of M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing marks a pivotal moment for Western New York’s banking community. While the decision reflects industry-wide trends toward digitalization and cost efficiency, it also underscores M&T Bank’s commitment to supporting customers and employees through the transition. By offering alternative branches, robust digital platforms, and employee reassignments, M&T Bank is working to minimize disruptions while adapting to modern banking demands.
As the financial landscape evolves, customers affected by M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing can take advantage of nearby locations, online tools, and community-focused initiatives to meet their banking needs. While change can be challenging, M&T Bank’s deep ties to Western New York and its strategic investments suggest a bright future for the region’s banking ecosystem.
FAQs
1. Why are M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport closing?
M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing to streamline operations and align with evolving customer preferences for digital banking. The closures are part of a strategic review to ensure branches are optimally located.
2. Which specific M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing?
The branches at 1580 Hertel Avenue in Buffalo and 118 Walnut Street in Lockport will close on June 12, 2025.
3. What alternatives are available for customers affected by the closures?
Customers can visit nearby branches, such as the Delaware Hertel branch in Buffalo or the South Transit Road branch in Lockport. Online banking, mobile apps, and ATMs are also available.
4. Will employees lose their jobs due to the closures?
No, M&T Bank has committed to offering all affected employees positions at nearby branches or other local bank operations.
5. How can customers access safe deposit boxes after the closures?
Customers with safe deposit boxes at the closing branches will receive detailed instructions on transferring their belongings to nearby M&T Bank locations.
6. How will the closures impact the local community?
While M&T Bank branches in Buffalo and Lockport are closing may reduce foot traffic to nearby businesses, M&T’s ongoing investments in Western New York, including branch renovations and community programs, demonstrate a continued commitment to the region.
