Private equity firm backs insurance merger
Deals news is sponsored by Pannone Corporate
Advised on deals worth £300m in the first half of 2017
Macclesfield-based Bollington Group has merged with Manchester-headquartered Wilsons Insurance Brokers after securing investment funds from private equity firm Inflexion.
The two companies, Bollington Wilson Group, will generate annual gross written premiums in excess of £120m and will focus on UK expansion through scale and add-on acquisitions.
Paul Moors, Bollington Wilson Group CEO, said: “We believe this creates more choice and more flexibility for all of our valued customers. With Inflexion’s track record in integration and acquisitive growth we are truly excited about the future of our new group. Their support will help Bollington Wilson Group expand across the U.K. and develop further product lines. We look forward to an ambitious partnership together.”
John Wilson, Bollington Wilson Group chairman, added: “There are many opportunities across commercial and personal insurance broking that can be enhanced by increased scale. The merger of Bollington and Wilsons creates a compelling platform from which to realise those opportunities. Meeting Inflexion has been transformational for our businesses and we look forward to the next stage of growth.”
Simon Turner, managing partner, Inflexion, added: “We are delighted to complete the double buyout and immediate merger of Bollington and Wilsons. Our team spotted this compelling merger opportunity and navigated through a complex transaction process. Leading discussions with the ambitious management team of each business, we shared a vision for accelerated growth under this new structure. We welcome Bollington Wilson Group into Inflexion’s portfolio and look forward to working in partnership.”
The Inflexion deal team comprised of Carl Wormald, Malcolm Coffin, Matt McKinlay and Jon Andrew; Carl and Malcolm will join the group’s board.
The transaction was arranged by Dow Schofield Watts for Bollington; Wilson Insurance shareholders were advised by TMG Corporate Finance. Pannone Corporate also advised Bollington.
