Tuesday 31st August 2010 - Published by Kelly Jackson - Communications Executive
Couple target growth after taking over the family business
A FAMILY-run insurance company is changing hands after almost 40 years.
Weir Insurance, based in Blyth, Northumberland, is being taken over by husband-and-wife team Duncan and Karen Weir who have plans to grow the independently-run business.
The couple have taken the reins from Brian Weir, Duncan's father who established the company in 1972 and steered it to success through changing markets. 2010 is set to be Weir's most profitable on record.
Karen has taken over the strategic side of the business and will be responsible for driving the business forward while Duncan will continue to look after the firm's larger clients.
The company has recently invested in a new computer system and is dedicated to staff development, providing technical training for its staff who are almost all at least CertCII qualified.
Before taking over Karen and Duncan held an "innovation day" to brainstorm ways to improve the running of the business, make it more profitable and ensure its long-term success.
Karen said: “I am very pleased with our position in a very competitive market and could burst with pride at the levels of customer service we still manage to keep in what is becoming a commodity market.
"My main focus will be to ensure that the business remains financially robust and innovative enough to keep up these results for another thirty-eight years.”
Brian, who remains as a non-executive director, added: “I am very comfortable handing over the reins, and have no doubt that the next five years will be the most profitable the company has ever seen!”
Weir Insurance offer commercial and personal insurance.
Each client gets their own broker which means they always know who they need to talk to. The "change at the top” is being hailed as a positive step for the company and its clients.
