Bennett Christmas becomes ninth to join Bravo’s Ethos

Bennett Christmas has become the ninth broker to join Ethos Broking group, which is part of The Bravo Group and includes Compass and Broker Network.

The independent insurance broker and underwriter is made up of Bennett Christmas Brokers, BC Underwriting and BC Health and Safety – a risk management consultancy with a focus on commercial lines.

The Bennet Christmas Group had a long-standing relationship with Ethos prior to joining, as it was part of Broker Network. The deal will see the broker’s workforce join Ethos, but the office premises will be retained.

Obvious home

Bennett Christmas’s chief executive Mark Bennett explained that Ethos was the “obvious new home” for the team.

He said: “We know Des O’Connor and the team well, and have benefitted from a strong relationship as a member of Broker Network for a number of years. They understand what it’s like to be an independent broker.

“Bennett Christmas is and always has been about our people and customers, and the partnership with Ethos Broking is a perfect fit and will boost our offering.

“In an industry dominated by online insurance providers, we deliver a vital service to our customers – demystifying the market, doing the leg work and having their back in a claim.”

Aligning cultures

Richard Tuplin, managing director at Ethos Broking said that it is fantastic to add another strong independent broker to the group.

“We’re looking forward to working together to broaden the offering for customers in the South East, whilst also supporting Bennett Christmas’ growth plans,” he said.

In a statement the group said the two businesses align on a culture that focuses on caring and delivering for its customers.

In 2018 Bennett Christmas made two purchases – in addition to buying Slade Edwards, an independent broker in 2017.

Bennett Christmas was established in 1967 in Burgess Hill, West Sussex. It is led by Bennett, Roger Christmas, Tom Stripp, Anna Prestwich and Viv Cooper. It now employs over 50 people and controls over £17m in gross written premium (GWP).