Relation Insurance Services, an insurance brokerage based in the US, has successfully acquired the assets of Forest Insurance Agency. Located in Forest Park, Illinois, Forest Insurance Agency is known for its expertise in personal and business insurance. This acquisition took effect on December 1, 2024. The financial details of the acquisition have not been made public. Dan Browne will remain in charge of the office and will be an integral member of the Relation team.
Key Takeaways
- Strategic Midwest Expansion: Relation Insurance Services’ acquisition of Forest Insurance Agency, Inc., on December 1, 2024, strengthens its Midwest presence and enhances its ability to deliver customized insurance solutions.
- Complementary Expertise and Resources: Forest Insurance, known for its client-focused services and deep expertise, will integrate into Relation’s operations, providing clients with broader coverage options, improved risk management services, and access to Relation’s carrier network.
- Ongoing Acquisition Strategy: Relation continues to pursue acquisitions to enhance its market position and diversify offerings, including recent purchases of Business Aviation Insurance Services (aviation insurance) and Kane Insurance Agency (regional growth).
- Client and Employee-Centric Approach: With a focus on smooth transitions, equity opportunities, and a people-first approach, Relation aims to deliver value to clients and employees while adapting to market needs.
Relation Insurance Services Expands Midwest Presence with Acquisition of Forest Insurance Agency

On December 1, 2024, Relation Insurance Services, a prominent insurance brokerage firm, completed the acquisition of Forest Insurance Agency, Inc., based in Forest Park, Illinois. This strategic move aims to enhance Relation’s presence in the Midwest and broaden its client service offerings. The company aims to improve its ability to provide customized insurance solutions to a broader clientele.
Relation Insurance Services is a leading insurance brokerage that provides risk management and benefits consulting services across the United States. Ranked among the country’s top 25 most prominent agencies by revenue, Relation operates over 100 locations nationwide and employs approximately 1,350 professionals. The company is backed by Aquiline Capital Partners, a private equity firm focusing on investments in the technology industries and financial services.
Established in Forest Park, Illinois, Forest Insurance Agency specializes in personal and business insurance solutions. Under the leadership of President Dan Browne, the agency has built a reputation for delivering comprehensive insurance services tailored to the unique needs of its clients.
Tim Hall, CEO of Relation Insurance Services, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that Forest Insurance brings valuable long-term relationships and deep experience in providing comprehensive insurance solutions. He emphasized that integrating Forest Insurance into Relation’s operations would enhance the firm’s ability to serve clients effectively. He stated that Relation is delighted to integrate Forest into their organization. Established in 1957, the agency is known for its longstanding client relationships and extensive expertise in delivering complete insurance services. Hall expressed enthusiasm about incorporating Forest into their team.
Dan Browne, President of Forest Insurance Agency, shared similar views, stating that joining Relation enables the agency to improve its client services. He emphasized that Relation’s comprehensive expertise and broad carrier network will provide clients customized coverage solutions that meet their specific requirements.

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Clients of Forest Insurance Agency can anticipate a seamless transition, with continued access to their trusted advisors and the added benefit of Relation’s extensive resources and industry expertise. The acquisition will provide clients with a broader range of insurance products, enhanced coverage options, and improved risk management services.
Relation has pursued acquisitions in recent years to enhance its market position and diversify its service portfolio. Notably, in December 2024, Relation acquired the assets of Business Aviation Insurance Services, Inc. (BAIS), a Concord, California-based firm specializing in aviation insurance. This acquisition aimed to add value to Relation’s aircraft owner and operator clients by leveraging BAIS’s specific expertise in aviation insurance.
In December 2023, Relation acquired the assets of Kane Insurance Agency, Inc., located in Salem, Illinois. Kane Insurance had been serving Illinois individuals and businesses for over 60 years, and its integration into Relation’s operations was intended to enhance Relation’s footprint in Illinois and expand its offerings in the region.
Relation Insurance Services remains committed to forming partnerships that support its expansion goals. The company provides opportunities for equity ownership and prioritizes a people-first strategy to enhance results for both staff and clients. Focused on broadening its geographical reach and diversifying its services, Relation is strategically poised to meet the changing demands of the insurance industry and add value for its stakeholders.
About Relation Insurance Inc.
Relation Insurance Services, founded in 2007 and headquartered in Walnut Creek, California, is one of the largest independent insurance brokers in the United States. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, including business insurance, employee benefits, personal insurance, retirement services, and risk management, catering to a diverse clientele across various industries such as agribusiness, education, public entities, transportation, and non-profits. Relation emphasizes building strong relationships and leveraging a blend of people, partnerships, processes, and technologies to effectively navigate clients’ insurance needs.
In March 2019, Aquiline Capital Partners, a private equity firm based in New York and London and focused on the technology sectors and financial services worldwide, took over Relation. Since being acquired by Aquiline, Relation has broadened its reach by strategically acquiring other companies. This expansion strategy included the acquisition of Forest Insurance Agency in December 2024, strengthening its market position and enhancing its services.
About Forest Insurance Agency Inc

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Forest Insurance Agency, established in 1961 and headquartered in Forest, Mississippi, is an independent insurance agency that provides excellent customer service and comprehensive coverage at affordable rates. Serving central Mississippi, the agency offers various insurance solutions, including auto, home, life, and business insurance, all conveniently managed in one place. Their knowledgeable staff is committed to assisting clients with personalized service and free, no-obligation quotes.
The agency caters to a diverse clientele, including businesses and non-profit organizations across various industries, such as aviation, apartment and condo rentals, daycares, restaurants, and churches. They specialize in providing tailored and hard-to-find insurance products that meet the unique needs of these organizations, ensuring comprehensive protection against potential risks. With a strong emphasis on building lasting relationships, Forest Insurance Agency strives to be a trusted partner for all insurance needs in the community.
Conclusion
The acquisition of Forest Insurance Agency by Relation Insurance Services marks a significant step in Relation’s ongoing strategy to expand its presence in the Midwest and enhance its service capabilities. This integration combines Forest’s long-standing expertise in personal and business insurance with Relation’s extensive resources and broad carrier network, delivering greater value to clients and employees alike.
As Relation continues its growth through targeted acquisitions, the firm reaffirms its commitment to a client-centered approach and to strengthening its position as a leading insurance brokerage in the United States. This strategic partnership exemplifies Relation’s ability to adapt to evolving market demands and underscores its dedication to delivering comprehensive insurance solutions.