Gallagher Australia has announced the purchase of Edgar Insurance Brokers (EIB), a Victorian-based brokerage, as it continues to expand across the state.  

Founded in 1947 as a family business, EIB has 11 staff across two offices in Cobram and Benalla. It offers services for rural industries, including farming, hospitality, transport, and trade.  

As part of the deal, EIB will operate under the Gallagher brand, with director Shannon Edgar now acting as Branch Manager for its Cobram office.  

Mr Edgar told insuranceNEWS.com.au that before the final decision was made, “a few interested parties” were considered.   

“We chose Gallagher as a business that would be a better fit for us,” Mr Edgar says. 

“Looking after our clients and staff was the overwhelming factor in the decision. 

“The professionalism and support offered by the Gallagher team will be good for our clients and our staff will thrive in the Gallagher culture. 

“We’ll be able to offer smoother processes in regard to helping with claims, quoting renewals and getting the best for our clients.”  

Gallagher Australia and Asia CEO Sarah Lyons says Mr Edgar’s firm has a “terrific future with Gallagher”.

“Industries in the Goulburn Valley such as farming, food production, transport and Agri-Solar energy strongly align with the expertise Gallagher can offer,” Ms Lyons said.  

“Together we can do an even better job of helping to support and build the local community.”  

The deal marks Gallagher’s fifth acquisition of Australian brokerages this year, with the group now holding eight offices across Victoria. 

“Gallagher has a strong track-record of growth in Australia,” Ms Lyons said. “I’m pleased to say lots of conversations with owners of insurance brokerages have become terrific new merger partnerships. 

“They are choosing to become part of the Gallagher growth story, inspired by ethics, opportunity, entrepreneurialism and the ability to bring greater capabilities and service to clients.”