Aston Lark makes first deal of 2022

Aston Lark has bought Hove-based Mainstay Insurance for an undisclosed sum.

Mainstay was founded in 2013 by managing director Richard Gorrill and offers bespoke commercial insurance and risk management solutions.

The broker specialises in the leisure industry, property owners, and professional indemnity.

Reputation
Peter Blanc, Aston Lark group chief executive officer, said: “Richard and his team have a fantastic reputation and I’m delighted that they chose Aston Lark for their future home. Welcome aboard!”

Gorrill added: “This company has built up a significant reputation over the years as a broker providing great service, whilst retaining that vital personal touch. This has allowed us strong client retention levels with our loyal and enduring customer base.

“But we appreciate we simply cannot afford to stand still in this rapidly evolving business world, and this acquisition brings additional opportunities not only for our clients, but for our magnificent staff too.

“We are looking forward to further enhancing our overall value proposition for customers and staff alike through being part of the Aston Lark Group.”

Plan
Aston Lark was itself bought by Howden last year, and once the deal goes through it will create a £6bn GWP business.

Blanc told Insurance Age in October that, as part of Howden, his plan was to double the size of the Aston Lark operation through organic growth and M&A.

It most recently added the client book of Choice Benefits to its portfolio and also recently purchased Philip Williams & Company and Innovation Broking.  

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