Alberta brokerages form strategic alliance for entry into new markets

Several independent brokerages in Alberta are partnering with Excel Insurance Group, an Edmonton-based firm, to gain access to more insurers and possibly work jointly on new business projects.

Sheppard Insurance Service Inc., Dyberg Insurance Inc. and Treasures Insurance have all partnered with Excel, a general insurance firm that is also part of Assurex Global, a network of independent insurance, risk management and benefits brokerage firms.

Excel’s operations includes access to insurance markets, monthly accounting and trust management, human resources services and support, IT solutions and discounted group purchasing and branding.

The new alliance will give the Edmonton brokerages access to more than 30 insurers under contract, and “enhances the ability of each firm to service the insurance and risk management needs of a varied commercial, industrial and VIP client base,” Excel said in a statement.

Each firm will retain its current ownership structure and independence, but will now become shareholders in Excel and will also fill board positions, with each partner/director working “actively in the operation of the joint venture company,” the statement noted.

Sheppard Insurance was incorporated in 1979 by Emily and Tony Sheppard, and its now under the leadership of their son, company president Grant Sheppard and Scott Zurfluh, a partner. The full-service brokerage offers insurance protection and alternative risk financing advice for industrial, commercial, group, aviation and high net worth personal insurance clients.

Dyberg Insurance, incorporated in 1953, is led by Karen Dyberg, daughter of brokerage founder “Butch” Dyberg. The full-service firm offers all classes of personal and commercial insurance throughout Alberta and British Columbia.

Treasures Insurance, founded in 1945 by Ralph Treasure, is now under the leadership of Scott Treasure and his business partner Terry Funk and is an exclusively commercial broker.

“We’re very excited to welcome Grant Sheppard, Karen Dyberg and Scott Treasure, their partners and their teams to Excel Insurance Group,” said Douglas Morrow, president and CEO and also owner of his own brokerage, Excel Insurance and Risk Management.

“Each of these individuals is a person of exceptional character with complementary skills and experience,” he noted. “As new board members, they will each add a significant level of capability to our company.”

Excel Insurance Group also has a Lloydminster, Alta.-based partner.