Clear Group has announced the acquisition of Shire Insurance Services Limited, a specialist insurance broker focused on the UK veterinary sector. The deal marks Clear Group's first acquisition of 2026.
Shire Insurance Services was established in 1981 and is based in Alcester. The company employs 15 staff and places approximately £7 million in gross written premium.
The business is owned by majority shareholder Keith Dickinson (pictured above, right) alongside co-founder John Worton. Following the acquisition, Dickinson and the wider team will remain with the business to provide continuity for clients, insurer partners, and staff.
Clear Group said the transaction strengthens its UK Retail division through the addition of a specialist capability in the veterinary insurance segment. Shire operates a veterinary surgery scheme placed with Ecclesiastical, alongside offerings in the employee benefits space.
The broker also provides a range of other insurance solutions for veterinary practices. Clear Group noted that the business is positioned to benefit from trends in the veterinary sector, including the growth of independent practices and corporate carve-outs.
Mike Edgeley (pictured above, left), Group CEO of Clear Group, said the acquisition supports the company's strategy of building specialist propositions within its UK Retail pillar.
"Shire Insurance Services is a highly regarded specialist business with deep expertise in the veterinary sector," Edgeley said. "We are delighted to welcome Keith, John and the entire Shire team to Clear as we begin 2026 with another high quality addition to the Group."
Dickinson said the deal provides the resources to continue developing the business while maintaining its focus on the veterinary market.
"Clear Group shares our values, commitment to specialist advice and ambition for growth," Dickinson said.
The acquisition comes as the broader UK pet insurance market, worth approximately £2 billion in GWP, faces increasing pressure from rising veterinary costs and evolving care standards.
In 2024, pet insurance claims exceeded £1 billion for the third consecutive year, with total payouts reaching a record £1.23 billion.
