GRP broker County completes Derby-based acquisition

GRP-owned County Group has acquired commercial broker Rahon Insurance. 

Rahon, a Derby-based family business that was established by Tajinder Atwal in 1994, specialises in SME, commercial combined, leisure, motor fleet, motor trade and property owners. 

Rahon is County’s second acquisition since it became part of GRP in January this year and according to County chief executive Dave Clapp, is one of a series of acquisitions the business will be looking to complete during the next few months. In July it completed its first deal since becoming GRP owned - with the acquisition of Guardian.

Clapp said: “We continue to focus on acquiring commercial broking businesses that bring something different to the group and have the potential for growth. 

“This acquisition, and our very strong pipeline, are evidence of the attraction of our model for owners looking to create value from their life’s work.” 

He added: “Tajinder and the team have built a great business and we are really excited about working together in the future.” 

Ambition

Mike Bruce, GRP’s chief executive of broking, said: “County Group has made no secret of its ambition to double in size during the next five years, through a mix of organic growth and strategic acquisitions.

“Rahon is a well-run family business and an excellent fit for County. I warmly welcome Tajinder and his team to GRP.” 

Atwal said: “We have carefully selected The County Group as the right people to work with. Dave and the County team have the same aspirations and ethos as us; I am delighted to have joined forces with one of the most driven and ambitious insurance businesses in the UK.” 

County was founded in 2003 by Clapp and today employs nearly 300 people. County’s strategy is to continue the development of its branch network by acquiring commercial and community brokers across its region. 

Rahon is the 11th business acquired by GRP this year and the 35th since it was established in 2013. It handles in excess of £700m GWP.