Century South Banks Announces Plans to Build One Bank Brand.

DAHLONEGA/MACON, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 24, 1999--

Century South Banks, Inc. (NASDAQ: CSBI) has announced a consolidation initiative to build one bank identity from its eleven independent bank brands. The affiliate banks will operate under the brand name of the holding company, Century South Bank. The consolidation process, which has already begun, will take place in strategic phases with completion anticipated next year.

James A. Faulkner, Chief Executive Officer of Century South Banks, commented, "As we prepare to enter the next century, the consistency of one bank brand, a common product line and one operating system will enhance benefits to our customers, enhance the performance of our community banks, and enhance returns to our shareholders."

Century South Banks President and Chief Financial Officer, Joseph W. Evans added, "Building a one bank brand identity is a natural outgrowth of Century South Banks responding to the needs of the marketplace with enhanced products, improved training and better service. Financial products are evolving at a rapid pace. Our move to brand uniformity and standardization of products and processes will build stronger community banks that are better equipped to meet the needs of their communities. Also, our consolidation initiative will have a positive impact on earnings, which paves the way for future growth. Century South Banks will be in a better position to acquire banks and expand the company."

Century South Banks will continue to operate in a multi-charter environment with fully empowered local boards of directors. Century South Banks believes this will allow the community banks to better adapt to the needs of the communities they serve.

The consolidation will bring many advantages to Century South Banks and its customers. The improvements include:

-- A recognized brand name -- Customer capability to bank in four states at CSBI locations -- Cost and system efficiencies resulting in improved financial

performance -- Stronger product set, including improved electronic services -- Uniformity in training and customer service -- More effective sales and marketing

Century South Banks (CSBI) is a $1.2 billion Georgia based banking company and operates in 16 communities in three states, Georgia, Alabama and Tennessee. CSBI recently announced the pending acquisition of Haywood Bancshares, which operates in four communities in western North Carolina.

To learn more about Century South Banks, please visit our website: www.csbi.com