Erste Group plans to rebrand Santander Bank Polska as Erste Bank Polska following the acquisition of shares, enhancing its presence in the Polish banking market.

Target Information

Santander Bank Polska has announced plans to change its name to Erste Bank Polska following the sale of shares to Erste Group. The Polish Financial Supervisory Authority (KNF) has already granted approval for this name change. On January 22, 2026, shareholders will convene at an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) to vote on this name change as well as on changes within the Supervisory Board. The proposed new members of the board include Peter Bosek (Chairman), Alexandra Habeler-Drabek, Stefan Dörfler, and Maurizio Poletto. The finalization of this transaction will make Erste Group the primary shareholder of Santander Bank Polska.

Upon completion of the rebranding process, scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2026 contingent on shareholder approval and the necessary filings with the National Court Register (KRS), all entities within the Santander Bank Polska Capital Group currently using the name “Santander” will also adopt the new name. Despite these changes, all existing contracts with customers will remain valid, and essential details such as account numbers, helpline numbers, and PINs will not change. The bank will continue normal operations during the transition, focusing on supporting customers in achieving their financial goals.

Industry Overview in Poland

The banking sector in Poland has seen significant growth and development over the past few decades, largely fueled by economic transformation and European Union integration. The country has