World Insurance Associates LLC (“World”), a Top 50 U.S. insurance brokerage, has taken a significant step forward in its national expansion strategy with the acquisition of Owens Insurance Agency and Stokes Farnham Insurance Agency, both based in South Carolina. The acquisition officially took effect on January 1, 2025.
A Legacy of Service in the Carolinas
Owens Insurance Agency has been a trusted name in South Carolina’s upstate region since 1952. With a strong commitment to community values and a diversified portfolio — including commercial, personal, life, health, and bond insurance — Owens has established itself as a cornerstone of local insurance services. In recent years, the agency expanded through Stokes Farnham Insurance Agency in Travelers Rest, further cementing its presence in the region.
“Over the years, Owens Insurance Agency and Stokes Farnham Insurance Agency have continued to grow in size and strength,” said Christopher Crist, Owner of Owens Insurance Agency. “However, we still believe in quality customer service, giving back to the community, and helping out our neighbors.”
A Strategic Step Toward Enhanced Offerings
The leadership teams at both agencies expressed confidence in the transition, citing the opportunity to offer expanded products and services to clients while maintaining their commitment to personalized service.
“We implement the changes that are necessary to meet the needs of our clients in South Carolina, and nationwide,” said Shane Lynn, Owner of Stokes Farnham Insurance Agency. “We are confident that joining World will allow us to provide our clients with even more services and products. They are a great organization, and we look forward to being a part of the World family.”
Strengthening the World Network
With the addition of Owens and Stokes Farnham, World Insurance continues to reinforce its network of expert agencies across the country, particularly in the Southeast. The firm is recognized for integrating regionally respected agencies and enhancing their capabilities through advanced resources, expanded carrier access, and national infrastructure.
“On behalf of World, I would like to welcome Owens and Stokes Farnham,” said Rich Eknoian, CEO and Co-Founder of World. “Their team of insurance professionals provides comprehensive insurance to their clients while providing the highest level of customer service. I know they will continue to be successful as part of World.”
About the Transaction
A network of legal and financial advisors supported the deal. Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla provided legal counsel, and Sica Fletcher advised World. Owens was represented by Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP, with FrontRidge Advisors serving as financial advisor. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
As Owens Insurance Agency and Stokes Farnham Insurance Agency become part of the World Insurance Associates family, clients can expect continuity in service, with the added benefit of national-level support and solutions.
About World Insurance Associates LLC
World Insurance Associates (World) is a nationally ranked financial services organization headquartered in Iselin, N.J., that serves its clients from more than 300 offices across the U.S. and U.K. World’s comprehensive network of brokers and specialists empower people to make informed decisions to improve their risk management outcomes, modernize their benefits programs, and help achieve their long-term financial goals. Using data-driven analytics, World’s advisors innovate new products and solutions tailored to clients’ needs across commercial and personal insurance and bonds, employee and executive benefits, wealth management and retirement plan services, private client services, and payroll & HR solutions. For more information, please visit www.worldinsurance.com.
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