Digital MGA purchases family-run broker based in Bolton

Digital MGA Ripe will begin offering holiday home insurance after the purchase of family-run insurance broker Schofields.

Schofields, which is headquartered in Bolton, specialises in holiday home cover for properties both in the UK and overseas and currently boasts approximately 10,000 policyholders.

Kieth Schofield – who founded the firm in 1984 – will take a consultative role during the ownership transition, while sons Jonathan and Philip will continue to lead day-to-day operations alongside the Ripe team.

Ripe said that the deal, which is still to be finalised pending customary closing conditions, marked its first entrance into the holiday home space and built upon its “expertise in leisure products including motorhomes, caravans, park homes, golf and boat insurance”.

The deal represents Ripe’s third major acquisition in recent years, following the purchases of marine specialist Craftinsure in 2023 and boat insurer GJW Direct from Munich Re Specialty in 2025.

New chapter

Alan Thomas, chief executive at Ripe, said: “This deal is another exciting new chapter for Ripe as we enter the holiday homes insurance market. Schofields has built an exceptional reputation over four decades and we’re pleased to welcome their team and policyholders to the Ripe family.

“We will use our technology and marketing expertise to further drive Schofields’ growth while maintaining the exceptional customer service that has established their reputation as a trusted and successful provider.”

Keith Schofield added: “After 40 years we believe Ripe are the right stewards to take Schofields forwards. This partnership combines our trusted specialist approach with Ripe’s innovative technology and digital capabilities, creating exciting opportunities for new and existing customers.”