Manchester-based insurtech, Ripe, has agreed its third major transaction to acquire the holiday homes insurance specialist, Schofields.
The deal, for an undisclosed sum and subject to customary closing conditions, marks Ripe’s first entrance into the holiday homes space, building on its expertise in leisure products including motorhomes, caravans, park homes, golf and boat insurance.
Established in 1984, Schofields is a family-run business, based in Bolton, offering a high quality, personalised service for specialist holiday homes insurance for properties in the UK and overseas.
With more than 10,000 policyholders, the company has a strong 40-year heritage in the sector.
Jonathan and Philip Schofield, who have been instrumental in driving the business over the past two decades, will continue to lead the business on a day-to-day basis alongside the Ripe team.
Keith Schofield will remain as a consultant to the business to support the transition of ownership.
Alan Thomas, CEO of Ripe, said: “This deal is another exciting new chapter for Ripe as we enter the holiday homes insurance market.
“Schofields has built an exceptional reputation over four decades, and we’re pleased to welcome their team and policyholders to the Ripe family.”
He added: “We will use our technology and marketing expertise to further drive Schofields’ growth while maintaining the exceptional customer service that has established their reputation as a trusted and successful provider.”
Keith Schofield, founder and majority shareholder of Schofields, said: “After 40 years we believe Ripe are the right stewards to take Schofields forwards.
“This partnership combines our trusted specialist approach with Ripe’s innovative technology and digital capabilities, creating exciting opportunities for new and existing customers.”
The deal is subject to customary regulatory approval.
For Ripe, legal and tax advice for the transaction was led by EY. For Schofields, corporate finance advisory and legal services were provided by Bolton-based K3 Capital Group.
In April this year Ripe acquired Manchester-based boat insurance specialist, GJW Direct, in a deal with Munich Re.
And in September, 2023, Ripe undertook its first acquisition since it was itself acquired by Aquiline Capital Partners in November, 2021, with a deal for specialist boat insurer, Craftinsure.
