Aviso Group says two of its largest brokers, Insurance Aid General Brokers and Eagle Insurance Brokers, are merging to form a new entity called Aviso EIA Insurance Brokers.

Aviso EIA will be led by Insurance Aid MD Andrew Hinz and GM Shane Risby, while Eagle MD David Bailey will become Aviso Group GM, working closely with CEO Craig Robson to deliver strategic objectives.

“I can’t wait to get involved more broadly within Aviso Group and assist with the strategy to build one of Australia’s largest insurance brokers,” said Mr Bailey.

Aviso is backed by private investment group Envest, which will increase its ownership under the terms of the merger and provide financial support to fast-track the new structure, processes and innovation.

Aviso EIA will have offices in cities stretching from Newcastle to Darwin and more than 80 employees. It will place more than $80 million in gross written premium for over 10,000 clients, Aviso says.

“This merger delivers on the Aviso Group promise to deliver the best of both worlds, providing local advice with nationally competitive price and service,” Mr Robson said.

Eagle was formed in 1997 and has offices in Newcastle, Taree, Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Kempsey, and Darwin.

Insurance Aid was established in 1985 and operates predominately in the South East and Central Queensland market, with more than 40 staff working from offices in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, Rockhampton, and Townsville.

Mr Hinz said the merger would increase scale and drive efficiencies for the benefit of staff and customers.