APRIL Group (APRIL), the prominent wholesale insurance broker in France and Europe, has successfully finalised its acquisition of Lexham Insurance, a key player in two-wheeler insurance in the UK.
Founded in 2000, the Lexham Group (Lexham) has experienced substantial growth, solidifying its position as a leading insurance broker in the UK for motorcycle, niche motor, and motor trade. Over the years, the company has built strategic partnerships within the sector, distributing innovative, tailor-made insurance solutions. With a workforce exceeding 200 individuals across its three offices in the UK, Lexham has established itself as a significant presence in the industry.
The shared objective of APRIL and Lexham Insurance is to bolster the presence of the Lexham brand in the UK market. This involves a commitment to providing an increasingly distinctive insurance experience and maintaining a robust service approach.
Commenting on the deal, APRIL CEO Eric Maumy highlighted the group's presence in the UK market since 2012 through its London-based expatriate insurance business.
“The group is now confirming its ambitions for international development, particularly in the property and casualty and two-wheeler insurance markets, where we already have strong expertise in France and Spain,” he said.
Marc-André Dupont, head of APRIL Group property and casualty division, underscored the commonalities shared with Lexham's teams – a dedication to customer-centricity and recognised expertise in network management.
“With James Miller, who will continue to lead Lexham, we have begun to identify synergies that will enable us to create value across Europe,” he said.
Lexham founder Richard Ironmonger acknowledged APRIL as the right entity to propel the group to the next level.
“I am very proud of what Lexham [has] achieved since its formation in 2000 and the way it has differentiated itself in a very competitive market. At the age of 75, I think my race is now run and that in APRIL, we have found a home will take the group to the next level,” he said.
Lexham CEO James Miller commented: “With Richard taking the decision to step away, it was important to us that with any sale we found the right home, and with APRIL's knowledge of and passion for the markets we trade in, we feel we have done just that. The whole management team are incredibly excited to take this next step.”
