The Clear Group has acquired C.R. Toogood & Co Limited, a commercial insurance broker based in East Horsley, Surrey, as part of its strategy to expand its UK retail operations and strengthen its presence in the South of England.
The acquisition adds to Clear’s growing network in the region, which already includes offices in Horsham and London. The South of England has become a key focus for the group, reflecting the region’s concentration of small and medium-sized enterprises and established broker markets.
The addition of C.R. Toogood is intended to support Clear’s goal of building scale and service capabilities in the area by adding locally embedded operations with established client relationships, the company said.
C.R. Toogood is a third-generation family-run firm led by managing director Peter Toogood. The company provides commercial insurance, employee benefits, life insurance and mortgage broking services. It reported gross written premiums of £14.5 million in 2024 and employs 19 staff.
As part of the transaction, Clear will also acquire the trade and assets of Crisp Specialist Risk and Lanning Toogood Limited, two affiliated firms. Marcus Crisp and John Lanning will join the Clear Group following completion.
Commenting on the move, Clear Group CEO Mike Edgeley (pictured) said the acquisition aligns with the company’s strategy of investing in businesses with specialist expertise and compatible organisational cultures.
He noted that Clear has had a longstanding relationship with the Toogood team and that the two firms share a similar approach to client and employee engagement. Edgeley added that Clear intends to support the continued growth of the business under its current leadership.
Peter Toogood said the deal represents a significant development for the firm. He stated that the decision to join Clear was based on the group’s commitment to maintaining the local presence and investing in staff, which he believes will allow clients to continue receiving the same level of service.
