Alliance Bank Offers Merchant Check Capture Service to Clients

ST. PAUL, MN -- (MARKET WIRE) -- March 22, 2007 -- Alliance Bank, a privately owned community bank with over $500 million in assets, announced today the launch of Merchant Capture services for their business clients.

Using a computer, state-of-the-art software and a multi-feed scanner, clients can scan the front and back of checks to convert them into an image replacement document (IRD), and transmit their deposits securely through the Internet. Within seconds of transmitting data and images, an email is sent back to confirm receipt of the deposit items and deposit total. Benefits include expedited funds availability and increased efficiency.

Alliance Bank clients using this new service have seen improved cash flow due to the extended deposit cut-off time for same-day processing. In addition, their businesses run more smoothly without the daily interruption of driving to the bank to make their deposits.

In a recent survey conducted jointly by the ABA Banking Journal and ABA's Community Bankers Council, only 16% of community banks now offer this service. According to the survey, industries using merchant capture services include professionals (74%), service firms (55%), contractors (38%) and retailers and municipal governments (25% each).

"As a community bank with a heavy focus on business and private banking, we strive to offer the latest technology solutions," said V. Philip Reim, chief executive officer. "With a large number of our clients in the type of industries that benefit from Merchant Capture, Alliance Bank made it a top priority to provide this service. Our clients now have the flexibility to make deposits remotely into more than one account, and from multiple business locations. Merchant Capture is a natural extension of our current array of cash management services designed to help our clients better manage their working capital."

About Alliance Bank

Alliance Bank is a privately owned community bank with assets in excess of $500 million. Alliance Bank provides highly integrated commercial, agricultural, private and personal banking services through nine locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin. Established in 1867, Alliance Bank delivers big bank expertise with community bank service. As a family-owned bank, Alliance Bank is committed to remaining independent and providing personal interaction and timely decision making. From basic checking and savings products, to business loans, personal loans, sophisticated cash management and online banking services, Alliance Bank offers services to help companies and individuals succeed. Visit www.alliancebanks.com or call 1-888-959-9425 to learn more.

Contact Information: Debra Kosch Vice President - Marketing 651-229-2873