Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. (AUI) Continues to Expand, Strengthen Operations – Completes Merger with Carolina-Based Reliance Administrators, Inc.

Oak Ridge, TN, April 08, 2011 --(PR.com)-- Appalachian Underwriters, Inc., has obtained the assets of Reliance Administrators, Inc. -- a Rock Hill S.C., based wholesaler that specialized in workers’ compensation, commercial lines, and niche program opportunities for independent insurance agents nationwide. The acquisition is effective April 6, 2011.

“Over the past eighteen months, Reliance has been part of our overall enterprise. It’s a natural progression to now merge its operations into those of our Appalachian Underwriters, Inc. wholesale business. We are looking forward to assimilating the many synergies between these two brands” said Robert Arowood, President, Appalachian Underwriters, Inc.

Office doors of the Rock Hill office will remain open, becoming an official AUI satellite office. With the acquisition, AUI strengthens its operations by adding a number of experienced underwriters and customer service representatives. Adding an office to the Carolinas will also increase the availability and efficiency for agents directly appointed with AUI.

“We’re excited for the Reliance team to officially become an Appalachian Underwriters, Inc., satellite office and look forward to providing more accessible coverage for Southeastern agents,” said Jon Beckham, President, Reliance Administrators. “This strategic move will allow agents to have better access to the exclusive markets, services, and technologies that AUI has developed over the years.”

Agents previously appointed with Reliance Administrators, Inc. can be assured that AUI is ready, willing and able to meet the service needs for all business written prior to the acquisition. While business and renewals will continue to be marketed as placed, agents will have the opportunity to remarket as needed through AUI’s extensive markets, programs and expertise.

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

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