Afore Insurance Expands Mid-Atlantic Marine Practice with Resolve Acquisition

Afore Insurance Services has completed the acquisition of Resolve Insurance Group, an independent marine insurance agency based in Virginia Beach, Virginia. This move enhances Afore's footprint in the Mid-Atlantic region, leveraging Resolve's local marine expertise alongside Afore's broader regional resources. Christopher Burns, formerly of Resolve, has joined Afore as senior vice president and national marine practice leader to lead the firm's marine practice expansion along the Eastern Seaboard and Gulf Coast. Resolve Insurance Group will now operate within Afore’s Mid-Atlantic Region, guided by regional president Brett Balsley. The acquisition aligns with Afore’s ongoing strategic growth in Virginia and surrounding states, complementing a series of recent deals aimed at solidifying Afore’s specialized industry knowledge, carrier relationships, and client service capabilities in targeted sectors. Michael Garguilo, president and CEO of Afore, highlighted that the transaction reflects the company’s partnership-acquisition approach, which appeals to independent agencies wanting to grow specialty practices while retaining local control. This model supports Afore's objective to emerge as a leading independent insurance platform across the Mid-Atlantic and Eastern Seaboard markets. The acquisition takes place amid an active period of market consolidation in the US marine insurance industry. Increased shipping traffic, rising vessel values, and emerging risks such as cyber exposures and environmental liability are driving demand for specialized coverage and risk management tailored to maritime clients. Busy ports in Virginia, Maryland, and North Carolina have heightened the need for regional expertise in marine insurance. By integrating Resolve’s local presence and deep client relationships with Afore’s national underwriting resources and multi-carrier access, the company aims to expand its specialty marine offerings effectively. The deal exemplifies a growing trend where insurance agencies favor partnership growth models over outright sales to access capital and operational support while preserving entrepreneurial autonomy and local market knowledge. This acquisition strengthens Afore’s regional platform and marine practice, positioning the company to address evolving risks and client needs within the complex marine insurance market on the Eastern Seaboard and Gulf Coast. Industry experts note this strategic approach supports competitive differentiation through specialized expertise and a client-focused service model across high-traffic maritime corridors.