Brown & Brown (Europe) has announced its acquisition of UK insurance broker Weatherbys Hamilton LLP.
The deal, which has received regulatory approval, adds a specialist in private client, bloodstock, and farm and estate insurance to the Brown & Brown portfolio. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Weatherbys Hamilton operates from seven locations across the UK – Wellingborough, London, Edinburgh, Penrith, Horsham, Swindon, and Newmarket – and is known for its presence in the bloodstock insurance market, where it provides cover for horse owners, breeders, and trainers.
Founded in 2012 as a joint venture between Weatherbys Bank and Charles Hamilton, the firm expanded with the addition of founding partners Alec Moore, Richard Chugg, Beth Sharkey, and William Johnson. The business will continue to trade under the Weatherbys Hamilton name, with all existing team members remaining in place across their current offices.
Charles Hamilton (pictured above, left), executive chairman of Weatherbys Hamilton, said the firm has been built on deep relationships, specialist experience, and doing things the right way.
“I’m proud of what we’ve built and excited to see the business continue to grow within Brown & Brown. Weatherbys Hamilton has always had a strong relationship with Brown & Brown, and I know they’ll carry forward everything that makes this firm special,” Hamilton said.
Carolyn Callan (pictured above, right), CEO Retail at Brown & Brown (Europe), said both businesses had shared values and the company looks forward to supporting the team going forward.
“They bring strong sector specialisation, a fantastic team led by Joint CEOs, Alec and Richard, and a reputation built on trust and service. We look forward to supporting them as they continue to do what they do best,” Callan said.
The acquisition follows Brown & Brown’s broader expansion across the UK, including the recent purchase of commercial motor specialist 1st UK Broking in April. That transaction, part of a series of bolt-on deals, reflects the group’s ongoing strategy to deepen regional presence.
Since completing its rebrand from Global Risk Partners in September 2023, Brown & Brown (Europe) has moved towards a more unified identity across its operating units. Around 100 previously independent brokers have transitioned to the Brown & Brown name as part of a wider alignment initiative.
What are your thoughts on this story? Please feel free to share your comments below.
