Astute Insurance Solutions snaps up property specialist broker

JMG Group-owned Astute Insurance Solutions has acquired specialist property insurance broker Sandhouse Insurance.

Sandhouse Insurance was incorporated as a company in July 2021 and is based in Hatfield, Hertfordshire. The business is run by owner Mark Weedon.

Weedon, who has more than 30 years of property insurance experience, will join Astute Insurance Solutions as part of the deal.

Speaking about the transaction, JMG Group chief executive Nick Houghton said: “Sandhouse is a perfect fit into an already high quality, advice led business looking after corporate clients.

“Sandhouse’s specialism in the property sector is an area we are looking to grow further and Mark’s capability in this area will support our ambitions.”

Growth ‘milestone’

The deal, which aims to strengthen Astute Insurance Solutions’ advice led service proposition, marks the broker’s first M&A purchase since it became part of the JMG Group in March 2022 and signifies an important milestone in the broker’s strategic growth ambitions.

Managing director Ian Mahony said the Astute team are “all looking forward to building on the already strong foundations and delivering an even higher level of service for clients”.

He continued: “We are extremely pleased that Mark chose to become part of the Astute business.

“His skills and experience in the property market will enrich our business and broaden the range of services we offer.”

Apart from a name change, Weedon added that post-completion of the deal, “it will be business as usual” for Astute’s clients.

“This deal allows us to scale our offering with access to additional industry expertise and enhanced placement options through JMG Group,” he added.

“I am excited for the next chapter.”