Jensten Group continues to bolster regional presence with broker buy

Insurance distribution business Jensten Group has acquired One Broker Group in a deal that expands its number of regional excellence centres, a statement released today (12 September 2023) said.

One Broker Group provides services for commercial and personal clients across East Anglia and specialises in business, property and haulage lines.

It also offers several schemes with national distribution, including solutions for private ambulances, community led housing, community assets, thatched homes and classic cars.

Jensten said acquiring the firm would provide it with a new regional centre of excellence in East Anglia, with offices in Norwich and Cambridge.

The deal will also bring 115 staff and £60m of gross written premium (GWP) to the group.

Alistair Hardie, Jensten’s chief executive, said One Broker was ”one of the outstanding regional assets in the UK broking sector”.

“The acquisition of One Broker demonstrates the strength of the Jensten proposition to regional and specialist brokers looking for a home that supports their continued growth,” he added.

”The success we’re seeing in delivering significant growth, both organic and through acquisition, demonstrates the credibility of our people and our propositions to the market.”

’Natural fit’

As part of the deal, One Broker managing director Sean Clark will continue to lead the business alongside chief executive Robin Plaster.

Plaster said Jensten was a “natural fit” for the business as the firm moved into the next stage of its growth.

”Early in our discussions with the Jensten leadership, it became clear that we have a shared view of the importance of looking after our people and providing excellent service to clients,” he added.

”Our established presence in East Anglia and specialist schemes add value to the group. We are delighted to join Jensten and are excited about this next phase.”

Jensten has made several acquisition this year, including that of Simpson and Parsons on 4 July 2023 and Darwin Clayton the month prior (7 June 2023).

It also established a southern regional presence by acquiring three Coversure offices.

Its latest deal means the group now controls in excess of £500m GWP and has 800 staff.

”Jensten is arguably the industry’s most exciting story and best kept secret,” Hardie added.

“Over a reasonably short period of time, we’ve delivered remarkable growth through organic initiatives, such as our unique lead generation model and as a highly effective acquirer, and have become one of the fastest growing brokers in the UK.

”One Broker is one of the outstanding regional assets in the UK broking sector and we are delighted to welcome Robin, Sean and the rest of the team to the Jensten family.”