Smart and Cook's credit insurance arm, Credit Insurance Consultants (CIC) has acquired Halifax-based Credit Insurance Brokers (CIB).

CIC said the acquisition would almost triple staff numbers and create a leading independent credit insurance operation.

CIC managing director Terry Rees will continue in this role for the merged company. It will operate under the name Credit Insurance Brokers, and will relocate to larger offices in Halifax.

Current CIB managing director Steve Gorman will remain in the role of director.

The merged company's board will comprise of Rees, Gorman and CIC director Mark Fleeman.

Rees said: “We were delighted to complete the acquisition of this well-established company and I would like to welcome its expert staff to the Smart and Cook family.

“The expertise of both companies will be an invaluable resource for clients and provide dynamic new opportunities for growth within the ever-changing credit insurance market.”