Erskine Murray buys Essex broker

Erskine Murray said it has acquired Essex-based brokerage Asciak Holdaway Merritt.

This is the company’s second deal in the last six months having recently acquired Offley Insurance, a Cheshire-based broker, to boost its presence regionally throughout the UK.

Tom Bartleet, chief executive at Erskine Murray commented: “Combining our strengths as a growing broker with Asciak Holdaway Merritt’s specialist expertise and market insight will significantly enhance our capabilities within the London region and professional indemnity insurance sector.

“The acquisition marks a big growth opportunity for us within the professional indemnity insurance space. As we continue to grow in the right way, both organically and via targeted acquisitions activity, we continue to develop our service offering to ensure we are in the best position to serve our clients.”

Alan Wheeler, Commercial Director at Erskine Murray added: “This is a key acquisition for Erskine Murray as we begin the New Year. It is the latest example of our proven track record in acquiring well established and quality brokers.

“Our vision has always been to actively seek sound local businesses who share our ethos for excellent client services within the local community and beyond. Asciak Holdaway Merritt share this passion and hence they are the perfect fit for us. Our aim is not to change the business but to simply enhance the range of products and services available to their current loyal client base.

Asciak Holdaway Merritt has over 20 years experience within the professional indemnity Insurance sector. For the short term Asciak Holdaway Merritt will retain its brand under the Erskine Murray umbrella. Richard Holdaway will join Erskine Murray’s commercial board as head of professional indemnity.