Commercial division steps up growth plans with Kent-based broker
Swinton Business, the commercial division of the Swinton Group, has acquired the independent broker Lawrences to strengthen its commercial offering.
Swinton is currently undergoing an ambitious growth strategy for commercial through both acquisition and organic expansion.
The acquisition of Lawrences gives Swinton Business a further push towards reaching its aim of exceeding a £150m gross premium income over the next three years.
Established 50 years ago, Lawrences is an independent broker based in Kent with a £6m gross premium income. It specialises in providing commercial insurance for the SME market and advises on health and safety matters.
The vendors, David Carey and Ian Walker currently manage a team of 15 employees, all of who will remain within the new unit in Sevenoaks following the acquisition.
Swinton chief executive Patrick Smith said: “Lawrences is a strong, well established broker and is the type of business we are looking to acquire in order to expand our commercial arm, Swinton Business.
“Last year we acquired a record 45 brokers including three major commercial brokers Vectis, Rockford and Andinsure. The acquisition of Lawrences demonstrates that this growth strategy is set to continue through 2008.”
David Carey FCII, of Lawrences said: “As a long standing broker in our region, we have a well established client base and our primary focus will be maintaining and developing our existing client relationships.
"Swinton Business will add further value for our existing and new clients because we’ll be able to utilise our shared expertise and knowledge.”
