The purchase fits with Aston Lark’s ambition to expand its reach in the Midlands

Goldman Sachs-backed broker Aston Lark has bought Birmingham-based commercial broker Dunsby Associates, to expand its footprint in the Midlands.

Dunsby Associates, which has just celebrated its 10th anniversary, controls a gross written premium of £6m and typically acts for large commercial clients.

The business provides insurance, negotiates bespoke deals and offers risk management advice. The firm currently has 12 staff.

Aston Lark group chief executive Peter Blanc explained that the acquisition signals the broker’s ambition to build its footprint in the Midlands.

He said: “I’m delighted to welcome Dunsby Associates to the Aston Lark family. It’s a high-quality business with an ethos of customer care and, therefore, a perfect fit for Aston Lark.

“Their clients will be able to benefit from the scale of our group and direct access to the London Market, as well as our extensive private client and employee benefits offerings.

“We’ve been keen to build out further in the Midlands and this acquisition positions our Birmingham branch as one of the largest in the group.”

Neil Dunsby, managing director of Dunsby Associates, added: “We have a dedicated team who have been instrumental in our success over the last 10 years. We have built the business on strong client relationships and are keen to develop this further and to offer other services and products as part of Aston Lark.

“After meeting with Peter and Stuart, it was clear that their philosophy is aligned to ours. This acquisition is a great strategic fit for the Dunsby team and our clients will benefit as a result.

“It will also enhance our growth plans without changing our focus on client service.”