Five Star Bancorp is expanding its California footprint with the opening of a new full-service branch in Lodi on July 13, 2026. The branch aims to serve entrepreneurs and agribusinesses in the Central Valley, reinforcing the bank's focus on the state's food and agricultural economy. This expansion follows recent moves into Southern California and Walnut Creek, marking Five Star Bank's continued growth into high-growth regional markets.

The Lodi office is strategically located to enhance the bank's Food, Agribusiness & Diversified Industries vertical. Lodi is recognized as a key agricultural hub, with approximately 100,000 acres of planted vineyards and significant production of almonds, walnuts, and cherries. The city was recently named "America’s Favorite Small Town" by Parade, making it an ideal fit for Five Star Bank's relationship-driven approach.

Cliff Cooper, Executive Vice President and President of the Food, Agribusiness & Diversified Industries vertical at Five Star, emphasized the bank's understanding of the cyclical nature of the agricultural sector. He stated that the bank is committed to supporting producers, processors, and distributors through every stage of the economic cycle.

James Beckwith, President and CEO of Five Star, highlighted Lodi's strong agricultural foundation and growing business community as key factors in the decision. He noted that the expansion aligns with the bank's high-touch, relationship-driven banking model and its goal of helping businesses and communities thrive.

The Lodi branch represents Five Star Bank's latest effort to move beyond major metropolitan hubs and into dynamic regional markets. The bank currently operates nine branches in Northern California and is headquartered in Rancho Cordova, California.

Five Star Bank has secured the #1 ranking in the San Francisco Business Times' Best Places to Work list for the San Francisco Bay Area in the category of businesses with 25–49 employees. The award recognizes employers who have created an outstanding workplace culture, with results determined by employee votes measuring team dynamics, trust in leadership, and communication. This achievement underscores the bank's focus on fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for its staff.

The bank's workplace culture is centered on teamwork and the leadership team's investment in staff success. DJ Kurtze, Executive Vice President and San Francisco Bay Area President, attributed the recognition to a culture where employees feel valued and supported. He emphasized the bank's intentional efforts in leadership development programs and community volunteer opportunities to help employees grow and make an impact.

Five Star Bank's leadership structure facilitates direct access to the C-suite, including the President and Chief Executive Officer, promoting open communication and collaboration. Beyond internal operations, the leadership team actively participates in community service by serving on non-profit boards, setting an example for employees to engage with the communities they serve.

This latest accolade adds to Five Star Bank's growing list of honors received in 2025. The bank was recognized as a Top 3 Best-Performing Community Bank in the Nation by S&P Global Market Intelligence for banks with assets between $3 billion and $10 billion. Additional recognitions include inclusion in the Sacramento Business Journal's Fastest Growing Companies and Power 100 List, as well as the Sacramentan of the Year award from the Sacramento Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.

James Beckwith, President and CEO of Five Star, highlighted that the culture is fundamental to the bank's operations and client service. He noted that the Best Place to Work award is particularly meaningful because it reflects the voices of employees. The bank remains committed to maintaining an environment where every team member feels heard, valued, and respected.

Five Star Bancorp operates as a bank holding company headquartered in Rancho Cordova, California, through its wholly owned subsidiary, Five Star Bank. The bank serves the region with nine branches in Northern California.