Commercial £13m GWP broker acquired by ​Seventeen Group

Seventeen Group has acquired Shrewsbury-based commercial broker 1st Choice Insurance.

The deal brings 39 staff and £13m of gross written premium (GWP) to Seventeen Group, which the firm noted will boost its West Midlands presence.

Seventeen Group also said the acquisiton would enhance its motor fleet proposition.

Oliver Thorne, Seventeen Group chief executive, said: ”I’m delighted to welcome the 1st Choice team to Seventeen Group.

“Its impressive growth is built on a foundation of quality client service and significant investment in sales strategy.

“Its entrepreneurial culture perfectly complements the direction of our group and I’m excited to build our business together.”

‘Natural partner’

1st Choice Insurance was co-founded by Jason Martin and Callum Watkins.

Watkins said: ”1st Choice Insurance was founded on a simple ethos – providing great insurance policies with exceptional customer service.

”We’ve found a natural partner in Seventeen Group, whose culture and values align closely with our own. With their support and scale, we’re looking forward to growing our business and continuing to deliver on our key principle to even more clients.”

Martin added: ”Joining the Seventeen Group is a natural step for 1st Choice Insurance.

”Our businesses share a strong commitment to people, relationships and delivering the highest standards of service. This partnership allows us to build on those foundations, creating new opportunities for our team and even greater value for our clients.”