Ontario insurance group acquires Stan Darling Insurance

A group of Ontario-based insurance experts have acquired the independent insurance brokerage Stan Darling Insurance.

The group of acquirers is led by Kevin McKinnon, who is joined by David Elliott, David Kennedy, and Greg Kruk. Together, they have a combined 50+ years of experience in operating and running insurance brokerages across Ontario. The Commonwell Mutual Insurance Group (CMIG) served as a strategic partner in the acquisition.

Stan Darling Insurance was founded in 1938. The brokerage operates in the Parry Sound- Muskoka area, with offices in the Northern Ontario region. It offers personal, residential, and business insurance. The sale of Stan Darling coincides with the announcement of principal and owner Stephen Darling’s retirement.

Under the new ownership, Kevin McKinnon will take the role of managing partner in each of the Stan Darling offices and will lead the existing team through the transition. Stephen Darling will remain with the brokerage to oversee the transition of all teams. Stan Darling partner Jason Darling will also remain with the company and will assume the role of account manager.

“The independent insurance broker channel is alive and well and we are committed to solidifying this even further here in Ontario,” said McKinnon. “We could not be more thrilled to be sharing this news today– our team brings a ton of expertise with them to the table, and we are excited to take this already strong brand to the next level.”

“We believe in the strength of the independent broker channel in Ontario and we continue to invest accordingly,” added CMIG president and CEO Tim Shauf. “Today’s announcement highlights our dedication—we look forward to working with this group and sharing our expertise as a strategic partner.”