Partnership to allow Richards Group expansion

DENVER - IMA Financial Group, Inc., a North American insurance brokerage specializing in risk management, employee benefits and wealth management, announced a strategic partnership with The Richards Group, a family- owned independent insurance brokerage and advisory firm in Brattleboro that serves New England.

Effective Dec. 31, 2025, the partnership unites The Richards Group's 160 employees and 28,000 clients across Vermont, New Hampshire and beyond, with IMA's national platform and specialty capabilities.

"The Richards Group's long-standing commitment to New England communities and deep expertise in healthcare, education and nonprofit sectors is exactly what we look for in a partner," said IMA Chairman and CEO Rob Cohen in a news release. "Together, we'll deliver enhanced capabilities while preserving the local leadership and relationships that clients value."

With headquarters in Brattleboro, The Richards Group serves clients with 13 offices throughout Vermont and New Hampshire. The firm will maintain its local offices and leadership, while its 160 employees will join IMA and become shareholders.

"We are excited to join IMA, a company that shares our dedication to clients, employees and the communities in which we live and work," said The Richards Group Principal Drew Richards in a statement. "For many years, we've grown and evolved to best support our clients. This partnership represents the next step in our journey - we can expand capabilities, strengthen services and make our employees shareholders, all while keeping our local teams in place."

The Richards Group has earned recognition as one of Vermont's Best Places to Work for 10 consecutive years. The firm has provided local insurance, wealth management, retirement plan and total rewards solutions to clients

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