The recent move Tuesday by a major brokerage to expand in the Ontario market drew praise from one broker this week.
Cowan Insurance Group acquired The Williamson Group (TWG), expanding Cowan’s footprint to approximately 450 employees operating out of 10 locations in Ontario, including Cambridge, Kitchener, Ottawa, Paris, Hamilton, Woodstock, Stratford, Burford and two offices in Brantford.
The news was applauded by one reader, who had witnessed the growth of both companies from the beginning.
“Cowan and Williamson are a perfect complementary grouping,” wrote Douglas Swanson. “As an agent that watched the start-up of both firms and their growth, one admires the achievements of the founders and their dedicated staff. Congratulations!”
Heather McLachlin, president, Cowan Insurance Group, said that “the culture, values and approach when dealing with clients of our two organizations are extremely similar; we have complementary, yet unique products and services so together we will have a broader product shelf for clients to choose from; and both TWG and Cowan have strong local, regional, national and international relationships and offerings that position the combined company well for future growth.”
The President of TWG, Don Williamson, will report directly to McLachlin, and The Williamson Group employees will continue in their current roles.
“We believe this change will produce extensive opportunities for both our clients and our employees,” said Williamson. “Cowan Insurance Group and The Williamson Group together will have increased strength and size, with more buying power for our clients and the combined talents of two great companies. We’ve worked closely with Cowan on this, and have been impressed by their continued dedication to our organization, our people, our brand, and our development.”
