Now For Something Completely Different. Or is it? Umpqua Bank, once called Columbia Bank, is Going Back to its Former Name

What’s in a name? Ask the principals of Umpqua Bank. On September 1, the bank, which has a branch office in Downtown Winslow at 249 Winslow Way, will change its name and operate under the banner of Columbia Bank.

Umpqua made an informal announcement of its intention following its acquisition of Pacific Premier Bank, based in Irvine, California, earlier this year. “I am pleased to report that the legal steps required for this transition were successfully completed on July 1, 2025, ” said Umpqua CEO Clint Stein. “However, most updates reflecting our new name will not be visible until September, and we will continue to operate as Umpqua Bank until that time.”

“I want to personally assure you (customers) that, while our name is changing, the foundation of what you value most—our unwavering commitment to you and your financial well-being—remains steadfast and unchanged,” he added.

Why Change to Columbia Bank? Stein said the name change “is an important step to better ensure brand clarity, simplify (customer) experience, and unify our family of brands as we continue to grow and serve more communities throughout the West.”

The name Columbia Bank is closely aligned with Umpqua’s holding company, Columbia Banking System, and reflects “a cohesive identity with other trusted brands we operate, including Columbia Wealth Management, Columbia Trust Company, Columbia Private Bank, and Columbia Wealth Advisors. This change allows us to present a unified brand while continuing to offer you the same high level of personal service and financial expertise,” Stein explained.

Long-time islanders may recall that the banking space now occupied by Umpqua/Columbia was once the home of American Marine Bank that got caught up in a non-performing loan scandal nearly 15 years ago.

On a late Friday afternoon in January of 2010, state and federal regulators suddenly took it over, citing “inadequate capital and severe loan losses.” The Feds then turned around and sold the assets of American Marine – including all its branches offices – to Tacoma-based Columbia Bank. In its heyday, American Marine operated 11 branches in Kitsap, Jefferson, Clallam and King counties, and its main office and headquarters were located on Winslow Way. It was in business for 61 years.

Fast forward another 13 years and the local banking landscape changed again when in 2023 Columbia Banking System Inc. (“Columbia“) (NASDAQ: COLB), the parent company of Columbia Bank, and Umpqua Holdings Corporation (“Umpqua“) (NASDAQ: UMPQ), the parent company of Umpqua Bank, merged their operations to eventually emerge as Umpqua Bank.

At the time of that merger, the combined banks operated more than 300 branches and ATM locations throughout the West. Now the local banking scene is transitioning once again as the bank’s name reverts back to Columbia.

“As we work to simplify your experience (if you are a customer) and present a more cohesive identity, you will see that our people, our values, and our commitment to your financial success remain at the heart of everything we do,” Stein said. “We are honored that (customers) have chosen to bank with us and are excited to continue serving you as Columbia Bank.”

Stein said accounts, services, and customer relationships will remain the same during the transition. “There will be no impact on your banking services, accounts, or daily interactions with us. However, if you utilize third-party software like Quicken and QuickBooks, they may require you to update the name of the bank in their systems,” he explained. A guide to updating this information in Quicken or QuickBooks is available in the name change center on www.UmpquaBank.com/name. If you use software other than Quicken or QuickBooks, “we encourage you to reach out to your provider,” Stein noted.

The Columbia name will begin appearing soon, according to bank officials:

• Columbia Bank branding will begin to appear in our advertising materials over the next several months. You may notice the new name in commercials, online ads, and community sponsorships as we build recognition across our markets.
• The majority of visible changes will take place on September 1. On this date:
• Exterior and interior signage at branch locations will be updated to reflect the Columbia Bank name and logo.
• Our websites and digital banking apps will feature refreshed branding and enhanced user experiences, but your login credentials and personalized settings will remain unchanged.
• Official communications, statements, and documents will reflect our new name and visual identity.

“We understand that (customers) may have questions about what this change means for (them),” Stein said.” Our teams are here to support you every step of the way. Please do not hesitate to reach out to your local branch, contact our customer care teams, or visit www.UmpquaBank.com/name for more information and updates.

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