British broking group Aston Lark has announced its latest acquisition in Ireland, with the takeover of Dublin-based mortgage broker Finance Solutions. Founded in 2011 by Ken Murray, Finance Solutions specializes in mortgage broking, insurance, and pensions. With a team of 40 employees and a client base of approximately 7,000, the company has established itself as a key player in the Irish market.
The acquisition of Finance Solutions is expected to fuel further growth for the company and enhance its offerings for customers. Ken Murray expressed his enthusiasm for the deal, stating that it will enable Finance Solutions to provide more choices and an improved experience for its valued clients.
Under the terms of the agreement, Finance Solutions will become part of Aston Lark Ireland, which will be rebranded as Howden Ireland in the near future. The completion of the acquisition is subject to regulatory approval.
Robert Kennedy, CEO of Aston Lark Ireland, hailed the addition of Finance Solutions as a fantastic move for the company. Aston Lark, which was formed in 2018 through the merger of insurance broking firms Aston Scott and Lark Group, made its initial foray into the Irish market in 2021 with the acquisition of North County Brokers. Since then, the company has continued its expansion in Ireland, completing 13 additional acquisitions.
In 2021, Aston Lark was acquired by US banking giant Goldman Sachs, only to be sold later that year to Howden Broking for €1.3bn. This latest acquisition of Finance Solutions further solidifies Aston Lark’s presence in Ireland and strengthens its position as a leading player in the insurance and broking industry.
The move is seen as a strategic step for Aston Lark, as it seeks to broaden its service offerings and enhance its market share in Ireland. The company’s expansion in the country demonstrates its confidence in the Irish market and its commitment to providing tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of its clients.
As the regulatory approval process gets underway, both Aston Lark and Finance Solutions are optimistic about the future of their partnership. The acquisition is expected to bring mutual benefits, combining the expertise and resources of both companies to deliver enhanced services and value to customers.
With a strong track record of successful acquisitions, Aston Lark has established itself as a key player in the insurance and broking sector. Its continued growth in Ireland highlights the company’s ambition and commitment to expanding its footprint in strategic markets. As the rebranded Howden Ireland, the company is poised to further strengthen its position and capitalize on the opportunities presented by the Irish market.
Overall, the acquisition of Finance Solutions represents a significant milestone for Aston Lark and reinforces its position as a leading broking group in Ireland. With its expanding portfolio of companies and commitment to delivering exceptional service, Aston Lark is well-positioned for continued success in the Irish market and beyond.
