McFarlan Rowlands Insurance, a division of McDougall Insurance Brokers Limited, has expanded its Western Ontario presence with the acquisition of DJE & Associates Inc. The strategic deal strengthens the firm’s regional footprint and enhances service offerings following a series of growth-driven mergers, executives said.
DJE & Associates operates under Sutherland Elliott Insurance Brokers, Gaiser Elliott Insurance Brokers and Thames Financial. The firm provides general property and casualty brokerage services as well as other financial products to its client base.
The move follows McDougall Insurance Brokers Limited’s June merger with Halifax-based Keyes Insurance Brokerage Limited, which gave McDougall its first office in Atlantic Canada and advanced its coast-to-coast growth strategy through targeted acquisitions.
McFarlan Rowlands president Jason Schneider said the company has long respected DJE & Associates and expects that combining the two organizations will benefit clients, carriers, and staff.
Meanwhile, McDougall Insurance vice president, Lorne McDougall, said the integration of DJE & Associates is consistent with the firm’s efforts to grow in Western Ontario.
“We’ve had excellent results growing inorganically in Western Ontario and know that DJE & Associates will continue this trend - our focus on community-oriented, broker-first brokerages fits seamlessly with DJE & Associates' existing culture,” said McDougall.
As part of the transaction, David Elliott, president of DJE & Associates, will retire after a transition period. Elliott acknowledged the support of clients, employees and communities throughout his career.
“I know that partnering with McFarlan/McDougall ensures that everyone will be treated consistently with DJE & Associates' longstanding principles and practices. I am excited for what I know the future will bring,” he said.
According to the executives from McFarlan Rowlands and McDougall, DJE & Associates will continue to operate with the same service standards its customers have come to expect. The companies said the acquisition maintains a focus on professionalism and customer service while providing additional resources to the brokerage.
What do you think of this acquisition and its potential influence on Ontario’s insurance brokerage sector? Share your views in the comments.
