WESTBROOK – Maine credit unions continue their strong growth of the past few years, according to recently released statistics reported by the Maine Credit Union League’s 77-affiliated credit unions.

During the first half of this year:

• Assets in Maine credit unions increased 6.8 percent to more than $3.57 billion.

• Loans were up 3.37 percent to $2.4 billion.

• Shares were at $3.09 billion, an increase of 6.97 percent.

• Membership grew .95 percent to 603,020.

• Membership at Maine’s 77-affiliated credit unions surpassed 600,000 for the first time, solidifying Maine’s recent designation as the nation’s fifth strongest credit union state in membership penetration for the third consecutive year.

The solid growth experienced by Maine’s credit unions mirrors preliminary national growth trends for the period.

League President John Murphy said, “At the midpoint of 2003, Maine’s credit unions are poised for a strong second half and another solid year of growth. These statistics reflect the continued popularity of credit unions in Maine as members appreciate the unparalleled commitment to personal service as well as the consistently better rates and lower and fewer fees that credit unions offer.”

The Maine Credit Union League is the state trade association for Maine’s 77-affiliated credit unions providing a variety of services and products to assist credit unions in meeting the needs of their membership.