Collectivfide Insurance Group has formed a partnership with Utter Morris Insurance Brokers, marking the 12th brokerage addition since Collectivfide’s establishment in 2019.
Based in Burlington, Ontario, Utter Morris is the second broker partner to join the Collectivfide network this year. The business was originally established as W.F Utter & Son Realty and Insurance in 1927 before being acquired by John Morris in 1961.
The Thorpe family began managing the firm in 1980, with Fred Thorpe at the helm, later joined by his sons, John and Rob. The Thorpe family sought a structured succession plan, ahead of Rob’s eventual retirement, leading them to join Collectivfide Group. The transition will allow the family-run enterprise to continue operations seamlessly, with John as president and equity partner.
Utter Morris offers personal and commercial insurance products, including home, auto, marine, life, cyber, commercial, and aviation insurance. The brokerage has consistently grown since its founding, maintaining its commitment to being a reliable and proud community-centric business.
Community commitment has always been integral to Utter Morris’ ethos, a value shared by Collectivfide, making the partnership a natural fit. This alignment ensures that Utter Morris can continue serving its community with the same dedication and care.
John Thorpe noted: “Collectivfide’s community focus aligns with our own value system, and this was a significant factor and requirement for who we wanted to partner with. Collectivfide has proven that their community focus isn't something they merely say they do and is important to them but have actually done.
“Their emphasis on the importance of maintaining a strong presence in their communities was something we related to and are happy to see continue. We were looking for a true partner for our brokerage with a similar value system, and we found that with Collectivfide and are extremely excited for our future and this next chapter as we will remain a strong presence in our community.”
Tony Ngo (pictured), president and chief executive of Collectivfide, commented on the significance of the new partnership: “We are incredibly excited to have Utter Morris join our network and for us to help with succession planning and continue supporting the broker distribution channel.
“This pairing highlights the importance of a network and brokerage partnership and how we can support all facets of a broker’s operation without losing what’s important to them, or their identity. Value alignments are becoming increasingly important, and we’re proud that our value system has brokers wanting to join Collectivfide.”
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