With record growth in merchant and indirect lending last year, Texas Dow Employees Credit Union said it is looking to expand its footprint into Houston.

The $1.8 billion cooperative in Lake Jackson, Texas, said in the first three quarters of 2012, indirect auto lending was up by 48% year-over-year with a portfolio balance of $402 million and is on track to be the biggest production year in the history of the program.

Merchant lending production at TDECU was also up by 33% with a portfolio balance of $26 million, according to the credit union. Production in the specialty products category was up 133% year-over-year with a portfolio balance of $15 million.

This combined growth, coupled with a demand for its services in Houston's metro area, has spurred TDECU to expand its footprint in the region.

In Houston alone, where TDECU said it is focused on bringing more of its services to members following a merger with two area credit unions, indirect lending has grown 50% year-over-year.

Chuck Smith, TDECU's vice president of indirect lending, attributed the growth to consumers' pent up demand for goods following a slowing of the economy.

“Consumers had been cautious about spending and put off making large purchases, but with signs of a moderately growing economy and attractive financing, they are ready to spend and we're ready to help them get what they want,” Smith said.

To keep up with the demand, TDECU's indirect lending and merchant lending division grew by 20% in 2012 to assist members, merchants and dealers, according to the credit union.

“We have great people at TDECU. They view their biggest priority as delivering a quality of service and a portfolio of products that serve the community at large,” Smith said.

Instant Insights /

Texas Dow Employees CU Eyes Houston for More Loan Growth

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