Introduction
M&T Bank Branches Closing in Buffalo and Lockport, closed two of its branches: one at 1580 Hertel Ave in Buffalo and another at 118 Walnut St in Lockport. This decision, announced in March 2025, reflects the bank’s strategic response to evolving customer banking habits and the broader shift toward digital platforms. As traditional brick-and-mortar branches face declining relevance, banks like M&T are reevaluating their physical presence to optimize efficiency and meet modern customer needs. This article explores the reasons behind these closures, their impact on employees and customers, and what they signify for the future of banking in Western New York. By examining this development, we gain insight into how regional banks are navigating the digital transformation while staying committed to their communities.
Background on M&T Bank
M&T Bank Branches Closing in Buffalo and Lockport Company, was founded in 1856 by Pascal Paoli Pratt and Bronson Case Rumsey in Buffalo, New York. At the time, Buffalo was a thriving industrial hub, benefiting from its position at the western terminus of the Erie Canal. The bank was established to support the city’s growing businesses, providing essential financial services to fuel economic expansion. Over nearly 170 years, M&T Bank has grown into a major regional player, with over 950 branches across 12 states and Washington, D.C. Despite its expansion, M&T remains deeply rooted in Western New York, where it is headquartered. The bank’s community commitment is evident through its sponsorship of local landmarks like M&T Bank Stadium (home of the Baltimore Ravens) and its long-standing partnership with the Buffalo Bills, recently extended as part of the new Highmark Stadium project (Buffalo Bills Partnership).
In Lockport, a smaller city about 20 miles northeast of Buffalo, M&T Bank has also played a vital role in the local economy. Known for its historical significance as part of the Erie Canal system, Lockport has relied on M&T’s branches for personal and business banking services. The closure of the Walnut Street branch thus marks a notable change for this community, where banking options are more limited compared to larger urban areas.
Announcement of Closures
M&T Bank Branches Closing in Buffalo and Lockport and 118 Walnut St in Lockport was announced in March 2025. M&T Bank communicated this through multiple channels, including emails, in-branch notices, and its website. The bank emphasized that the closures were part of a routine review process to ensure its branch network aligns with customer needs. The final day of operation for both branches was June 12, 2025, at 4 p.m. To minimize disruption, M&T provided alternative locations for customers: the Delaware Hertel branch (about one mile from Hertel Ave) for Buffalo customers and the South Transit branch (less than two miles from Walnut St) for Lockport customers. Additionally, customers with safe deposit boxes were assured they would receive separate instructions for transitioning their boxes to other locations (WGRZ News).
Reasons for Closures
The closures are driven by a broader industry trend toward digital banking. As more customers prefer online and mobile platforms for their financial needs, physical branches are seeing reduced foot traffic. This shift has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which pushed banks to enhance their digital offerings. M&T Bank, like many others, has observed declining usage at certain locations, prompting a reassessment of its branch network. Closing underperforming branches allows banks to redirect resources to busier locations or invest in digital infrastructure. For M&T, this decision reflects a proactive approach to staying competitive in a rapidly changing financial landscape (Spectrum News).
Moreover, maintaining physical branches involves significant costs, including rent, utilities, and staffing. By consolidating its network, M&T can optimize operations and improve profitability. The bank’s statement that it regularly reviews its branch locations to meet customer needs suggests a data-driven approach, likely based on transaction volumes and customer visits at the Hertel Avenue and Walnut Street branches.
Impact on Employees
M&T Bank has prioritized its employees during this transition. All staff from the closed branches have been offered positions at nearby locations or other local bank operations. For example, employees from the Hertel Avenue branch can transfer to the Delaware Hertel branch, while Lockport staff can move to the South Transit branch. This approach ensures job security and maintains service continuity for customers who value familiar faces. By focusing on employee welfare, M&T demonstrates its commitment to being a responsible employer, which is crucial for maintaining morale and retaining talent (Buffalo News).
| Location | Address | Closure Date | Alternative Branch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buffalo | 1580 Hertel Ave | June 12, 2025 | Delaware Hertel (1 mile away) |
| Lockport | 118 Walnut St | June 12, 2025 | South Transit (less than 2 miles away) |
Impact on Customers
For customers, the closures may present some inconvenience, particularly for those who prefer in-person banking. However, M&T has provided clear alternatives: Buffalo customers can visit the Delaware Hertel branch, and Lockport customers can use the South Transit branch. Additionally, M&T offers robust digital banking options, including online platforms, mobile apps, and 24/7 ATM access, which can help bridge any gaps. Customers with safe deposit boxes will receive specific instructions for transitioning their boxes, ensuring minimal disruption. While some may find the shift challenging, M&T’s comprehensive alternatives aim to ease the transition (Niagara Gazette).
Community Reaction
M&T Bank Branches Closing in Buffalo and Lockport to the closures, likely due to their recent occurrence. However, reactions to branch closures are typically mixed. Some customers appreciate the push toward digital banking for its convenience, while others, especially older generations or those less tech-savvy, may feel inconvenienced by the loss of local services. In smaller communities like Lockport, where banking options are fewer, the impact may be more pronounced. Nonetheless, M&T’s continued presence through other branches and ATMs, along with its digital offerings, suggests a commitment to serving these communities effectively. An X post from a user expressed frustration with M&T over unrelated issues, but no specific community feedback on these closures has surfaced (2 On Your Side).
Broader Context: Trend of Bank Branch Closures
The closure of M&T’s branches is part of a larger industry trend. Over the past decade, the number of bank branches in the U.S. has declined significantly, from 96,624 in 2010 to 78,426 in 2023, according to the FDIC. This reduction is driven by the rise of digital banking and cost-saving measures by banks. While urban areas often have multiple options, rural and suburban communities may feel the impact more acutely. In Western New York, however, M&T remains a dominant player with numerous branches still operational, ensuring that the region’s banking landscape remains robust (Buffalo News Older Closures).
Conclusion
M&T Bank Branches Closing in Buffalo and Lockport June 12, 2025, marks a significant moment for the bank and its customers. As banking continues to evolve, institutions like M&T must balance digital innovation with community needs. While these closures may pose challenges for some, M&T’s proactive approach—offering alternative locations, supporting employees, and enhancing digital services—demonstrates its commitment to serving Western New York effectively. As you navigate your banking needs, consider exploring M&T’s digital tools and nearby branches to stay connected with your financial goals. Visit M&T Bank’s locator to find a branch near you.
FAQs
1. Why did M&T Bank close its branches in Buffalo and Lockport?
M&T Bank closed its branches at 1580 Hertel Ave in Buffalo and 118 Walnut St in Lockport as part of its strategy to adapt to changing customer banking habits and optimize its branch network. The bank regularly reviews its locations to ensure they meet customer needs, especially as more customers prefer digital banking.
2. What happens to the employees of the closed branches?
All employees from the closed branches have been offered positions at nearby M&T Bank locations or other local bank operations. This ensures that no jobs are lost due to the closures.
3. Where can customers of the closed branches go for banking services?
Customers of the Hertel Avenue branch can visit the Delaware Hertel branch, located about one mile away at Delaware Avenue and Hertel Avenue. Customers of the Lockport branch can go to the South Transit branch at 5737 South Transit Road, less than two miles from the closed location. Additionally, customers can use M&T’s digital banking platforms and ATMs.
4. How does this closure affect customers with safe deposit boxes?
Customers with safe deposit boxes at the closed branches will receive separate communication from M&T Bank regarding the transition of their boxes to other locations. The bank is ensuring that these customers can continue to access their safe deposit boxes with minimal disruption.
5. Is this part of a larger trend in the banking industry?
Yes, the closure of bank branches is a widespread trend in the United States. Over the past decade, thousands of bank branches have closed as customers increasingly turn to online and mobile banking. This shift allows banks to reduce operational costs and invest in digital infrastructure.
6. What does this mean for the future of banking in Western New York?
While the closure of two branches is significant, M&T Bank continues to have a strong presence in Western New York with numerous branches and ATMs still operational. The bank is committed to serving the community through both physical and digital channels, ensuring that customers have access to the services they need
