Re/insurers, Brown & Brown Insurance has announced the acquisition of all of the assets of Bright & Associates, as well as finalising the acquisition of Vehicle Administrative Services, (VAS).
Bright & Associates is an independent sales and service organisation providing F&I products and sales support to the automotive, marine, power sport, and RV markets.
Following the transaction, the Bright & Associates operations will continue doing business from their existing location in St. Louis, Missouri, and will become part of Brown & Brown Dealer Services (BBDS), which operates under the leadership of Mike Neal.
VAS is made up of Vehicle Administrative Services, LP, SafeRide Motor Club, Inc. and other related affiliates, and is owned by Bill Breindel.
The VAS team will continue to operate from VAS headquarters in Texas, led by Breindel. Following the acquisition, he will report to Mike Neal, President of Brown & Brown Dealer Services.
Neal said: “We’re excited to continue expanding our BBDS footprint with the addition of Jim Bright and his experienced team. Over the years, they’ve developed a strong reputation for their proactive approach to offering superior products and services to their customers throughout Missouri and Illinois, and we’re pleased to welcome them to our team.”
Jim Bright commented: “My father, Don ‘Chick’ Bright, entered the automobile business 43 years ago. He was the kickstarter, the foundation in building integrity in our business, and a steadfast leader to many. We learned to work hard and to do what is right. Brown & Brown’s core values are in lockstep with ours at Bright & Associates.
“Their integrity is the driving force, a natural fit, and a winning combination. With the addition of more resources, innovations, strength, and stability, we believe BBDS will provide enhanced benefits, products, and services for every one of our customers.”
