The Brewton and Atmore branches of Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union is part of a group of branches to be involved in a merger of the financial institution with SCORE Federal Credit Union (SCORE FCU) in Tallahassee, Fla.

The merger has been approved by the National Credit Union Administration and will see SCORE FCU becoming Gulf Winds Federal Credit Union on Jan. 1, 2013.

The merger with SCORE FCU will add over 5,500 members and three branch locations in the Tallahassee area to Pensacola-based Gulf Winds. Once the merger is complete, Gulf Winds will have 12 branches, assets of $475 million, more than 56,000 plus members, and a field of membership to include Escambia, Santa Rosa, Leon, Gadsden, Wakulla and Jefferson Counties in Florida and in Alabama in Escambia County.

Steps to fully merge the two credit unions have already begun. SCORE FCU members will have access to more competitive savings and loan rates, enriched online banking capabilities, mobile banking, a convenient contact center and more.

Chris Rutledge, president and CEO of Gulf Winds said the growth for Gulf Winds shows the dedication to services to its members.
“The Gulf Winds Team is excited and motivated to serve the SCORE FCU members and the Tallahassee area,” Rutledge said. “We are already working hard with the SCORE FCU team in preparation to offer our market leading savings and loan rates. As we plan for the future, our goal is to find ways we can expand our footprint within the communities we serve and beyond.”

Randy Glover, president and CEO of SCORE FCU, said the merger is one that would increase possibilities and offering for members.

“The SCORE FCU Board of Directors invested a significant amount of time searching for a merger partner,” Glover said. “Gulf Winds is the best merger partner for our credit union and this partnership insures that our members will receive increased benefits and quality service.”