Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. Expands MGA Operations by Acquiring the Insurance Assets of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB)

Oak Ridge, TN, October 29, 2008 --(PR.com)-- AUI has acquired the “Business Insurance Center” Insurance assets of NFIB, a leading small business association representing small and independent businesses, from MSC Insurance Agency of Tennessee, LLC., the program administrator. The transaction consists of approximately 75% workers’ compensation policies, which is well served by AUI’s area of expertise. Also, AUI further expands its’ nationwide capabilities into 1,500 additional independent insurance agencies, bringing their extensive distribution network to over 13,000 active agency partners. To assure a smooth transition, all NFIB carrier appointments will be transferred to AUI which expands the available markets for all our agents. All NFIB fax and phone numbers, including extensions will roll seamlessly to AUI.

AUI has also retained key underwriting staff, including Sandy Hopkins; she may be reached at

(888) 376-9633 Ext. 7311 or sandy.hopkins@appund.com.

Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. is a full service MGA and Wholesale Insurance Brokerage, providing independent agents a National outlet to multiple specialized markets for Workers' Compensation, Commercial Specialty, and Personal Lines of insurance. AUIs’ home office is located at 800 Oak Ridge Turnpike, Suite A-1000 • Oak Ridge, TN 37830. With Satellite Offices in: San Diego, CA • Kennesaw, GA • Altamonte Springs, FL • Sarasota, FL • Murfreesboro, TN

To learn more about Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. please visit www.appund.com

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is the leading small business association representing small and independent businesses. A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization founded in 1943, NFIB represents the consensus views of its members in Washington and all 50 state capitals. To learn more about NFIB please visit www.nfib.com

###