Alera, one of the nation’s largest insurance brokers, has acquired one of Western Massachusetts’s oldest insurance agencies: the Webber & Grinnell Insurance Agency. Founded over 150 years ago, Webber & Grinnell has been a local, independent insurance agency based in Northampton offering personal, commercial, and employee benefits to its clients throughout the region.
“The Webber & Grinnell Insurance team’s commitment to customer service and the New England community distinguishes them from the competition. We are pleased to add Webber & Grinnell Insurance Agency to the Alera Group family and expand our footprint in New England,” said Alan Levitz, CEO of Alera Group.
As a result of the merger, Alera will add the agency’s more than 7,500 current policyholders, greatly expanding its geographic footprint in the Commonwealth. According to the terms of the transaction, the agency will continue to operate as is after completion of the sale. No further terms of the transaction were disclosed.
“Webber & Grinnell takes pride in providing trusted advice, delivering outstanding service for clients and giving back to the communities we serve throughout New England,” said Bill Grinnell, President of Webber & Grinnell Insurance Agency.
More about Alera Group
Alera, meaning “eagle” in Latin, was formed in 2017 by a merger of “24 like-minded, high-performing entrepreneurial companies.” Since then the company has grown exponentially through acquisitions, having been ranked as a Top Ten Byer for the past few years. In addition, it might be of interest to our readers to know that the Alera Group is currently run by a former Massachusetts insurance professional, Jim Blue. Prior to taking on the role of president, Mr. Blue served as the CEO of the Marsh & McLennan Agency, New England. He is also a graduate of Boston College.
As for Alera, the company has increased its presence in New England since 2020 with the following transactions in addition to today’s announcement:
- Alera Group Acquires Massachusetts’ Sylvia Group (January 2020)
- Alera Group Acquires Gordon Atlantic Insurance Agency (October 2020)
- Women-Led Boston Benefit Partners, LLC Joins Alera Group (June 2021)
- Alera Group Acquires Cafeteria Plan Advisors, Inc. (June 2021)
- Alera Group Broadens Northeast Footprint With New Hampshire Agency Acquisition (August 2021)
