Western Financial Group officially celebrated the integration of Huestis Insurance into its Eastern Canada operations with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Saint John on December 2. The event marked the opening of the company’s newly transitioned offices and reinforced its commitment to providing trusted insurance solutions across the Maritimes.
The celebration brought together Saint John mayor Donna Reardon, local business leaders, and representatives from Western Financial Group and its Communities Foundation. Guests honoured the legacy of Huestis Insurance and the shared values of both organizations.
“We’re honoured to celebrate this moment with our team and community partners,” said Grant Ostir, CEO of Western Financial Group. “Our goal is simple: to make insurance easier, more caring, and more accessible for Canadians. We’re proud to carry forward the Huestis legacy with the same values: loyalty, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility to the communities we serve.”
David Huestis, founder of Huestis Insurance Group, added, “This is more than a business transition, it’s a celebration of shared purpose. Western and Huestis have always prioritized doing what’s right for our customers, our communities, and our people. Today’s launch reflects our mutual commitment to service excellence, local relationships, and giving back.”
As part of the launch, the Western Communities Foundation announced a $15,000 donation to the IWK Health Centre, the largest pediatric hospital in the Maritimes and a leading trauma centre for women, children, and families. The Foundation has contributed over $9 million to Canadian communities since its inception in 2001, supporting infrastructure projects, youth bursaries, and Indigenous-led initiatives.
“Giving back is not just part of our culture, it’s who we are,” Ostir said. “Whether it’s through bursaries for youth, disaster relief, or grassroots fundraising, we believe in showing up for our communities in meaningful ways.”
Western Financial, headquartered in High River, Alberta, serves over one million Canadians and operates in more than 200 communities nationwide. According to a news release, the Saint John office expansion enhances the company’s ability to offer personalized insurance advice while maintaining the same trusted service associated with both Western Financial and Huestis Insurance.
