British insurance broker Aston Lark has acquired local peer Michael James Insurance & Property Services for an undisclosed sum.
Kent-based Michael James has a GWP of nearly £2.5m. The firm’s employees will join Aston Lark’s Maidstone office in the coming months.
Michael James is headed by partners Ian Andrew and Michael Allbutt, who will continue to serve the business for a certain time period to support a smooth transition.
“It was clear to us from our initial discussions with Peter that Aston Lark will be a great home for our clients and staff, and this was really important for us. Selling a business you have put heart and soul into for over thirty years is a big step, but we have been really impressed with the professional manner in which Aston Lark has handled the whole process and have every confidence that the future is bright,” Andrew stated.
The purchase of Michael James marks Aston Lark’s second deal of this year. Earlier this year, the firm announced the acquisition of Ingram, Hawkins & Nock.
Aston Lark CEO Peter Blanc said: “Ian and Michael have worked hard over the years to create a strong business with high quality independent client service at its heart – we look forward to building on this and we are confident the team will fit in really well to their new home.

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By GlobalData“Their specialist knowledge of the care sector was a particular attraction for us and we will be looking to build on this and expand our involvement in this sector.”