Partners& has snapped up Bedford-based broker M&DH, which was established in 2002 and has a 70-strong team. It has a focus on construction and manufacturing risks as well as catering for a range of corporate and private clients.

Partners& says M&DH will become a regional hub for its business in the northern Home Counties. M&DH also operates its own academy, which Partners& highlights as an important pipeline for developing future talent.

Phil Barton, group CEO at Partners&, said: “They have a shared commitment to challenge the status quo and change the perception of the insurance broking industry. Their focus on investing in talent is clear – evidenced by their academy programme, which resonates with our aim to attract young talent to our sector. Their culture is powerful and they’re a great fit for Partners&.”

Richard Hames, CEO of M&DH, added: “Choosing Phil and his team was an easy decision for us. From our very first conversations, it was clear that the culture, values and long-term vision of Partners& closely aligned with our own, making them the ideal partner for the next stage of our journey.

“Our dedicated and loyal colleagues have been at the heart of M&DH’s success over the past 24 years and I’m especially pleased to deliver on our staff share option scheme as part of this transaction. It means our people share in the success they have helped create and have a vested interest in our continued growth as part of Partners&.”