The new acquisition is ’an obvious starting point to help us make a mark on the Irish retail market’, says chief executive
PIB Group is cementing its European expansion plans with the purchase of Irish retail broker Creane and Creane - this is the first retail business the broker has bought in this region, signalling that it intends Ireland to become a significant future trading territory.
Family-run Creane and Creane provides commercial and personal lines cover to retail and business customers throughout Ireland. Founded in 1945 and located in Enniscorthy, the broker is recognised as one of the longest established brokers in the country.
The business was founded by the late William Creane. Following his retirement, Michael Mahon took over the role as managing director before his son-in-law Tony Doyle succeeded his position. Now, Doyle, his wife Olive and other family members are active in the business.
Together, the team of 30 prides itself on offering quality insurance products at great value, as well as delivering excellent customer service.
The deal marks PIB Group’s fourth acquisition of 2021, following on from Acquinex, Element Hinton Insurance Brokers and UK and Ireland Insurance Services.
Growing ambitions
Brendan McManus, chief executive of PIB Group, said: “We’re delighted that Tony and the team at Creane and Creane felt comfortable coming into PIB Group, which we see as a real endorsement of our family mentality and the value of relationships that we’ve got.
“We want to focus on Ireland becoming a key territory for PIB, with ambitions to grow both our retail and wholesale footprint through further acquisitions.
“Creane and Creane are an obvious starting point to help us make a mark on the Irish retail market. We look forward to working closely with Tony and the team who have a great amount of energy to grow the business and take this on with us.”
Creane and Creane has now earned the title of having the longest trading history of all the businesses within PIB.
All employees will remain under the ongoing leadership of Doyle and his management team following the acquisition. The Creane and Creane brand will also be retained.
Doyle added: “I’m delighted to be able to say that Creane and Creane is part of PIB Group, which presents a very exciting opportunity to support their long-term growth plans in Ireland.
“We are extremely proud of our 75-year history, and our longevity is thanks to the steady support of our loyal clients and colleagues who we regard very highly.
“I look forward to continuing to work together throughout the next part of our journey.”
Regarding its European footprint, PIB Group already has a presence in Germany, Poland and Denmark.
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