Insurance brokerage Smart & Cook Group has moved to expand its Scottish operations by acquiring Lanarkshire-based brokers Lewis Wotherspoon.
Lewis Wotherspoon, which specialises in the motor, construction and retail trades, will be added to Smart & Cook Group's Scottish subsidiary, Smart & Cook Scotland.
Smart & Cook Scotland managing director Colin Preston said: "There are tremendous opportunities for us in Scotland and our expansion plans don't stop here.
"We aim to become one of the largest independent broking companies North of the border to emulate our colleagues in Yorkshire."
Smart & Cook Group managing director Paul Meehan added: "2002 will be a year of growth for us. There are numerous acquisition opportunities in our operating regions and we expect to close two further deals this year."
Lewis Wotherspoon was established in 1962. It employs 17 people and offers life assurance and pensions services in addition to its general insurance businesses. The company will eventually relocate to Smart & Cook Scotland's offices at Strathclyde Business Park, just off the M8.
The Smart & Cook Group employs 215 people and has eight offices located throughout the North of England.
