WESTBROOK – Maine’s credit unions experienced another year of consistent growth in 2003.

According to year-end statistics for 2003 reported to the Maine Credit Union League by its 77-affiliated credit unions, Maine’s credit unions grew in every category, including assets, loans, shares and membership.

According to the statistics, assets at Maine’s credit unions increased 8.28 percent to over $3.62 billion, loans grew 9.64 percent, shares rose 7.78 percent and membership grew slightly to 598,029 members. The growth in 2003 continues to emphasize the strength and popularity of credit unions in the State. Nationally, Maine has been ranked as the fifth strongest credit union state for the past three years.

League President John Murphy said, “These statistics indicate that, during the past year, Maine credit unions are reaching out and helping hundreds of thousands of Maine people remain on sound financial footing. Maine’s credit unions continue to play a significant role in helping the economy to grow and prosper in communities throughout Maine.”

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.