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More than 70 years of trading history and a workforce of 27 people – those are some of the things The County Group is gaining with the now completed acquisition of Eric Rawlins & Company Limited.
County, which itself was acquired by Global Risk Partners (GRP) in January 2018, looks to be on a roll, following its recent move for Swinford Insurance Consultants and Meadons Insurance Brokers.
The latest deal, financial details of which were not disclosed, will see Rawlins managing director Phil Alcock and the rest of the broker’s directors stay post-transaction to ensure a smooth integration.
“Once that is done, we will look at ways to further develop this great business,” said County chief executive Dave Clapp (pictured), who described the acquisition as a “marquee signing” for the GRP company.
Clapp noted: “Rawlins is a well-respected broking firm that has stood the test of time and become one of the largest independent brokers in Stoke-on-Trent and the surrounding area.
“We are delighted to have added Rawlins to our group. We now handle in excess of £20 million GWP (gross written premium) in the Stoke area, bringing significant scale to our North West hub.”
Headquartered in Newcastle-under-Lyme, Rawlins distributes personal and commercial insurance and specialises in contractors, property owners, business, and fleet risks. According to County managing director Alastair Christopherson, the landmark transaction brings their total GWP to more than £100 million which he called a significant milestone.
Lifting the lid on the transaction, Alcock stated: “We have watched from afar as County Group has grown and developed their model over the last few years. When deciding on the right home for our business, and as part of our own due diligence on County, we took references from a number of vendors of businesses they have bought previously and the feedback was very positive.
“The decision has become easier as a result of the dealings we have had with Dave and Alastair through the due diligence process. It was an important strategic decision for us to join another broking group after such a long time as an independent, but we are sure we have made the right choice.”
Meanwhile GRP group MD Mike Bruce is pleased with the development.
“County has delivered another great deal,” commented Bruce. “Part of the attraction of GRP for growth-hungry businesses like County is that we provide them with the support and capital to enable them to follow through and deliver their strong acquisition pipeline.
“I’m delighted to welcome Phil Alcock and all the Rawlins people to GRP.”
