Canadian Broker Network to Acquire South Western Insurance [Manufacturing Close – Up]

Proquest LLC

Canadian Broker Network ("CBN") and Intact Financial Corp. announced that they have reached an agreement whereby CBN will acquire Intact affiliate South Western Insurance Group Limited, a wholesale insurance intermediary that provides brokerages with specialty and niche insurance markets.

According to a release, terms of the transaction, which is expected to close by the end of the year, were not disclosed.

The acquisition of South Western marks CBN's expansion into the wholesale insurance market and complements its existing activities. CBN's ownership will provide South Western with the ability to expand its relationships with insurance companies which will greatly benefit South Western's brokers.

"This acquisition is a tremendous opportunity as it allows us to enter an important segment of the brokerage industry," said Daryn McLean, Chair of Canadian Broker Network. "With more than 50 years supporting brokers, South Western's growth potential is significant thanks to its strong industry relationships, experienced professionals and unique underwriting expertise in niche and specialty insurance products."

"We are pleased to have found in CBN the perfect organization to help South Western realize its growth potential," said Louis Gagnon, President and Chief Operating Officer of Intact Financial Corp. "Under the strategic direction of CBN, South Western will be well- positioned to better serve the needs of insurance brokers across the country."

Upon closing, South Western will operate as an independent subsidiary of CBN with its own leadership team, name and brand. "At South Western, brokers can always count on an impressive team of committed and talented employees. Moving forward, the current team will play an even greater role in strengthening our industry relationships and expanding our activities," said Mack Rooney, President of South Western Group.