Agricultural insurance underwriting agency Crowe Livestock Underwriting, has opened a European office in Antwerp, Belgium.
It said the move was prompted by an increase in enquiries from brokers on the continent looking to place business with a Lloyd's market specialist who could facilitate risks locally.
The company recently increased its capacity for 2004 from £4.5m to £7.5m, it said the increase would support the expansion.
Hugo Van De Velde will run the Antwerp office, and will co-ordinate the company's network of European risk managers, said Crowe.
Crowe Livestock managing director Emma Stamper, said: "Crowe Livestock has worked with brokers across the globe since we began underwriting in 1996, but only from the Lloyd's box or our Norfolk based office.
"The formation of our European office will enable brokers on the continent to receive the same high levels of cover and service they have come to expect from our team whilst working with an underwriter who has specific knowledge of the needs of their local markets."
