After merging with Wilsons Insurance Brokers in 2017 and upholding a consistent acquisition tradition, The Bollington Wilson Group has now itself been purchased, by none other than the global broking giant Gallagher. The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval.
Bollington’s roots date back to 1973, when it was known as a local community broker, though the company has grown since then both organically and through deal-making to become a notable broker in the UK specialising in mid-market commercial, niche lines, SME & micro-SME businesses, as well as personal lines. Based in the north west of England, Bollington operates seven offices, employs 420 risk professionals, and counts more than 230,000 customers.
After the sale is completed, Bollington will come under the umbrella of Gallagher’s UK retail division, which is focused on the risk management and insurance needs of more than a million customers and operates via a regional network of offices based across the UK, according to a release.
“Bollington is a hugely-respected business and culturally is an excellent fit with Gallagher,” said Michael Rea, CEO of Gallagher’s UK retail division. “This thriving business has strong capability and an impressive portfolio of specialisms that are complementary to our existing business lines, and provides us with additional scale in the regional commercial broking sector.”
He added that Bollington’s base in the north west “will supercharge” Gallagher’s own presence in that region, while bringing further depth to the broker’s existing UK-wide coverage through its Gallagher UK branch network.
Paul Moors, Group CEO of Bollington, added: “It was clear from the start that we had found a fantastic partner in Gallagher. Michael and his team spoke the same language as us and Gallagher’s focus on employing and developing its employees to provide great client service fits well with our ethos. Having led Bollington for over 20 years, I am delighted that our business will become part of such a market-leading global broker, and this partnership will enable us to continue our track record for growth, and provide a springboard for further success.”
