Oakbridge Insurance Expands Through Strategic Acquisition of Helms Associates
Oakbridge Insurance Agency LLC, backed by private equity, has expanded its footprint by integrating Larry S. Helms & Associates Insurance Services, which serves the Charlotte, North Carolina area with both commercial and personal lines. While the transaction details remain confidential, Helms will continue to operate with its current leadership in place. This strategic move enhances Oakbridge's portfolio, aligning with its focus on specialty acquisitions.
Supported by Audax Private Equity since 2023, Oakbridge has aggressively pursued niche opportunities since its inception in 2019, when Corsair Capital investments unified four Georgia-based agencies. The inclusion of Helms bolsters its offerings in specialized insurance lines such as construction and collector vehicles, particularly within the dynamic Charlotte market.
Larry S. Helms & Associates is distinguished by its expertise in construction and collector vehicle insurance, including a leading Hagerty portfolio for high-value collector cars. According to Steven Helms, firm principal, this partnership will provide enhanced opportunities while maintaining local autonomy. Helms emphasized the significance of market foresight and the ability to negotiate effectively, critical aspects for their client relationships.
Robbie Smith, Oakbridge’s executive chairman, highlighted Charlotte's expanding market and Helms' strong reputation in managing complex risks. Smith remarked, “The Charlotte metropolitan area continues to experience significant growth, attracting families and businesses from across the country.”
The rapid population growth in Charlotte is confirmed by the US Census Bureau, which cites a gain of over 20,700 residents from July 2024 to July 2025. This demographic shift spurs demand for diverse insurance solutions, as both commercial and personal lines see increased necessity in the expanding metropolitan area.
In specialty insurance, Helms' emphasis on collector vehicles resonates with national trends. Leading provider Hagerty has reported significant premium growth and expects continued expansion. Additionally, Liberty Mutual's partnership with Hagerty increases accessibility to collector car insurance, enhancing the appeal of specialized agencies like Helms.
This integration between Oakbridge and Helms unfolds amidst a general decline in M&A activity within the U.S. insurance agency sector. According to OPTIS Partners, there was a 15% reduction in North American transactions during the first half of 2026, marking the lowest mid-year total in seven years. Despite this slowdown, private equity-backed acquisitions remain prominent, underscoring the strategic importance of specialty-niche agencies such as Helms.