Afore Insurance Expands Marine Insurance Practice with Resolve Acquisition

Afore Insurance Services has expanded its footprint in the Mid-Atlantic region through the acquisition of Resolve Insurance Group, an independent agency based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. This strategic move enhances Afore's capacity to serve clients with specialized marine insurance needs along the Mid-Atlantic and broader Eastern Seaboard, combining Resolve’s local expertise with Afore’s regional resources. Christopher Burns, formerly of Resolve Insurance Group, joins Afore as senior vice president and national marine practice leader to drive growth in marine insurance programs and risk management services. Resolve Insurance Group will continue to operate within Afore's Mid-Atlantic Region under regional president Brett Balsley, maintaining its local market presence while benefiting from expanded carrier relationships and underwriting capabilities. This acquisition aligns with Afore's broader strategy to build dominant regional platforms by acquiring niche agencies that bring specialized industry knowledge and bolster client service. The marine insurance segment in the U.S. is currently experiencing consolidation and growth driven by factors such as increased shipping activity, rising vessel values, and emerging risks including cyber exposure and environmental liabilities. Insurers are increasingly emphasizing tailored coverage and risk management focused on high-traffic maritime regions like Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina. By integrating Resolve’s established client relationships and expertise in marine insurance, Afore aims to deepen its specialty offerings in these pivotal markets along the Eastern Seaboard and Gulf Coast. This approach provides access to a broader national carrier network and advanced underwriting resources, reinforcing Afore’s position as a leading independent insurance platform in the region. Industry analysts view this acquisition as part of a wider trend where independent agencies prefer partnership-oriented growth models over full acquisitions. This model allows agencies to retain entrepreneurial control and local operations while gaining access to capital, operational support, and expanded specialty practice capabilities through affiliation with larger platforms. The strategic focus on sector-specific expertise and regional dominance reflects insurers’ efforts to address complex marine risk profiles and the evolving demands of maritime clients. Afore’s acquisition of Resolve aligns with these market dynamics, setting the stage for continued expansion and enhanced service offerings within the U.S. marine insurance landscape.