Northwest Insurance Services to Acquire Winans Insurance & Employee Benefits

WARREN, Pa., Oct. 13, 2016

Founded in 1927, Winans Insurance and Employee Benefits has grown through a series of acquisitions to be one of the largest insurance agencies in its area.

As part of the acquisition, the entire Winans team will continue to operate from their current office at 315 Second Avenue in Warren. Winans' owner, David G. Winans, a 36-year industry veteran, will become vice president, Northwest Insurance Services, serving Northwestern Pennsylvania and New York's Southern Tier.

In making the announcement, Douglas H. Bert, president, Northwest Insurance Services said, "Committed to expanding our coverage across Pennsylvania and New York, we're pleased to welcome Winans Insurance and Employee Benefits and their strong team as members of the Northwest family.  This addition reinforces our dedication to providing best-in-class insurance products and award-winning customer service to the businesses and families we serve." He added, "The cultural compatibility of our two companies is demonstrated by our missions and commitment to our local communities."

"Because of their proven record of providing excellent customer service, we are excited to affiliate with Northwest and are happy to continue to serve our valued clients in Warren and the surrounding area," said Mr. Winans. "Operating within the Northwest network, we'll be able to connect our clients to an expanded list of carriers and additional products and services, including investment management and trust, employee benefits, retirement services and personal and business banking and loans."

Headquartered in Warren, Pennsylvania, Northwest Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company of Northwest Bank. Founded in 1896, Northwest Bank is a full-service financial institution offering a complete line of business and personal banking products, employee benefits and wealth management services, as well as the fulfillment of business and personal insurance needs. Northwest operates 167 full-service community banking offices and nine free standing drive-thru facilities in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio and Maryland and 51 consumer finance offices in Pennsylvania through its subsidiary, Northwest Consumer Discount Company. Northwest Bancshares, Inc.'s common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market ("NWBI"). Additional information regarding Northwest Bancshares, Inc. and Northwest Bank can be accessed on-line at www.northwest.com.

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