The merger of two local Towergate Insurance offices
You’ve operated in Kettering for many years, what were the main reasons behind the merger?
Although we are a large national organisation, our people and clients originated from within two Northamptonshire brokers - F.G. Watts in Northampton and Adams Tingle in Kettering. The general insurance broking sides of F.G. Watts and Adams Tingle were both acquired by Towergate in 2004, but their origins in the county date back more than 50 years. Our decision to merge two local offices was driven by our desire to bring all of our experience and specialisms together which, in turn, strengthens our overall proposition. All our departments are now under one roof and we are fitter and stronger for it.
How has the merger gone? Do you have more room for expansion? If so, what areas or departments?
The merger has surpassed expectations. We have been planning the event for weeks and the move was executed without fault. This meant, that by 9am on the following working day, we were open for business as usual, servicing clients, which is a credit to our entire team. We are now occupying two floors of Woodlands House with further room for growth. We continue to add to our team through new hires as we look to expand our local footprint.
Where do you see the opportunities for growth in 2020?
Our biggest opportunity for growth is in emerging ri s. The challenges and risks our clients are facing is changing and it is therefore important that clients understand how this can directly affect them. For us to achieve this, it is important that the right people are deployed in the right places within our business.
Overall, how has 2019 been as a year for your business?
2019 has been a fantastic year and the business is in great shape. Looking back on what has made the business a success, I would say having the right people employed in the right positions, continually looking inwards as to how we can be better and ensuring our clients and staff are looked after are all important factors. We are a people’s business after all!
Looking back on 2019, what is the area you and your colleagues have made a difference with your clients?
The success of our offering is truly tested when the unimaginable occurs in a business. Our claims proposition is the jewel in our crown and our teams have supported our clients facing life-changing business impacting events. We have a dedicated claims team of nine experts across our offices who work alongside our brokers and executives to support our clients when these challenges occur.
If there is one insurance policy that you think local businesses do not have, and will need to in 2020, what is it and why?
We’ve already mentioned our duty to keep apace with emerging risks, but our one piece of advice for 2020 would be to ensure your current programme remains fit for purpose. Underinsurance remains a major issue and we would recommend obtaining a professional reinstatement valuation on buildings and assets to ensure that your policies respond correctly. We are able to assist our clients by reviewing any valuation provided to ensure it has taken into consideration all of the correct elements.
For more information visit www.towergate.com or call 01604 887300. Towergate Insurance Brokers is a trading name of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Registered in England No.4043759. Registered Address: 1 Minster Court, Mincing Lane, London EC3R 7AA. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.