GRP-backed County Group buys Wales-based commercial risk specialist

The County Group, a broker owned by Global Risk Partners (GRP), has acquired specialist commercial risk business Bruce Edwards Jones Commercial Insurance in its fourth purchase of 2019.

The acquisition aligns with County Group’s overall aim of doubling its size over the next five years; the business’s strategy centres around developing its branch network, purchasing both commercial and community brokers across its target region.

With this in mind, County Group wishes to expand its footprint in Caernarfon, the Llyn Peninsula and Anglesey following three acquisitions in the North Wales area; Bruce Edwards Jones is based in Caernarfon, the heart of its catchment focus.

Alastair Christopherson, group managing director at County Group, said: “North Wales is a great region for us and the expertise and reputation of Bruce Edwards Jones will only enhance our business further.”

Business model

Bruce Edwards Jones’s six employees will remain in the business, as will the organisation’s brand – this will become a trading name for County Group, which currently employs 300 staff.

Aled Edwards, partner at Bruce Edwards Jones, said: “We felt County Group was the right fit for Bruce Edwards Jones, enabling us to continue the growth trajectory of our business, while still being able to offer an excellent personal service to our clients.

“We now look forward to working with the whole team over the coming years to build our presence further in North Wales.”

Christopherson added: “I am delighted that we have managed to secure another fantastic business that complements our strategy.

“Thanks to the backing and support of GRP, we have a winning formula for vendors and long may it continue.”

Acquisition trail

Both County Group and GRP have been highly acquisitive this year; County Group, for example, purchased personal and commercial line brokers Meadons and Eric Rawlins, both based in the north of England, in June.

Comparatively, GRP announced its acquisition of high net worth broker Gauntlet this week.

Mike Bruce, group managing director at GRP, said: “County’s footprint continues to expand with a string of high-quality deals that are combining to build a very substantial hub and spoke business.

“We are delighted with the rapid progress made by Alastair in recent months and warmly welcome Aled and the team to the GRP family.”

County Group does not plan to complete any more acquisitions this year.