H&H Group buys Hexham-based insurance agency

H&H Insurance Brokers, which is part of H&H Group, is set to buy Hexham-based insurance agency Tynedale Insurance Services.

The acquisition aims to expand the group’s portfolio and create a flagship business in the north of England.

As part of the merger, Joanne Lee, managing director and founder of Tynedale Insurance Services, will become a director of H&H Insurance Brokers.

Richard Rankin, H&H Group’s chief executive, said: “The acquisition of Tynedale Insurance Services is part of our strategy to deliver growth and opportunity, both for the company and our clients.

“It is a natural connection of dots, linking our Cumbrian offering with our now established north east team. But more importantly, both companies share the same ethos and values, living by high levels of service and professionalism and this acquisition enhances our offering even further.”

In the last two years, H&H Group has bought property management company Eden Lettings and Management, as well as Print Graphic and Dotcom Associates for marketing agency arm H&H Reeds.

Business growth

Founded in 2015 by Lee, Tynedale Insurance Services strives to serve its local community. The insurance agency provides a cross-section of insurance coverages, including farming, household, commercial and motor. 

Lee had Tynedale’s long-term strategy in mind when looking at H&H Insurance Brokers as a potential parent firm.

She explained: ”This acquisition brings benefits for customers of both companies. Being part of a larger organisation ensures here in Hexham we can provide a greater portfolio of services and continue to grow the business.

”I am also looking forward to bouncing ideas off fellow directors to see how we can further improve our service offering to the people of the north east.

“I would like to reassure existing customers that I will still be here leading my team. The office will continue to be based in Hexham and you will still be able to talk with your regular account manager. It really is business as usual – but even better.”

H&H Group has five subsidiaries operating across the livestock marketing, auctioneering, commercial print, digital marketing, property and insurance sectors.

The insurance side of the business was established in 1987 and focuses predominantly on the rural and agricultural sectors, arranging cover for farmers, agricultural contractors and other commercial businesses.

Paul Graham, managing director of H&H Insurance Brokers, said. “We have known Tynedale Insurance Services and Lee for many years and there were obvious synergies between our two companies.

”Lee has built up a very successful business. She is highly respected within the industry and we share the same values.

“We are delighted to be joining forces and further strengthening both our presence in Northumberland and our position as the leading independent rural insurance brokers in the north of England. Through this merger, we will offer customers an expanded and improved range of services.”