Markerstudy expands distribution arm as acquisition announced

Markerstudy backer Pollen Street Capital has agreed a deal to acquire Collingwood Insurance Services.

Collingwood, which operates out of Gibraltar and has an office in South Shields, specialises in insurance for learner and young motorists, taxi drivers and couriers.

Markerstudy’s distribution division will absorb the broking arm of Collingwood, while the insurance side will be managed by Pollen Street.

Pollen Street views the acquisition as a strategic purchase to attract UK motor business.

The deal is subject to regulatory approval and the consideration is undisclosed.

Atlanta merger

The deal comes after Markerstudy completed its acquisition of broking business Atlanta Group to create a personal lines platform.

The acquisition was first announced on 15 September 2023 and was funded by an investment led by Pollen Street and Bain Capital Special Situations.

The combined business will be known as Markerstudy and provide multiple products, including home and motor insurance.

Speaking about the deal, Markerstudy Distribution chief executive Ian Donaldson said: “I am hugely energised to start our journey to create a major new player in the UK insurance landscape.

“With the formidable talent and expertise of our colleagues focused toward this new chapter, we look forward to delivering innovative solutions and service for the customers now shared across our leading and specialist brands.”