Haven Knox-Johnston Insurance is back
by Chris Jones 11 Nov 2020 12:43 UTC
Haven Knox-Johnston, the well-loved and trusted boat insurance brand, is set to make a triumphant return. The revival comes under the new ownership of the renowned Aston Lark group, following their purchase of MS Amlin's Kent-based yacht operation. Contract terms have been agreed and the deal is expected to formally complete in January.
Cofounded in 1986 by Chris Knox-Johnston, the brother of sailing legend Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Haven Knox-Johnston grew to be one of the most recognised brands in UK boating. Rebranded MS Amlin in 2016, following its acquisition by insurance giant MS&AD, the Haven Knox-Johnston name will now be restored with a fresh new look and personal approach to boat insurance, whilst MS Amlin continues to provide underwriting capacity.
Aston Lark, as one of the UK's top five independent insurance brokers, shares many of the traditional Haven Knox-Johnston values. The combined ethos of customer care and a focus on the smallest detail, makes them the perfect fit to reignite the Haven Knox-Johnston brand. The existing friendly, knowledgeable crew understand that being an active part of the close-knit boating community, with its unique sense of camaraderie, is key to past and future success. Haven Knox-Johnston stands for straightforward insurance products providing cover at fair prices.
Peter Blanc, Aston Lark Group CEO, said: "I'm delighted that Aston Lark will be reviving the historic Haven Knox-Johnston brand and I'm looking forward to developing the business significantly over the coming months, whilst ensuring a continuation of the high level of service customers have come to expect."
Paul Knox-Johnston, Business Development Manager and son of late founder Chris Knox-Johnston, said, "We are excited to now be part of the Aston Lark group and look forward to working together with shared ambitions to bring about a new chapter in boat insurance. So many of our loyal customers still think of us as Haven Knox-Johnston and it is great that Aston Lark recognises the strength of the brand. A new owner means a fresh start and the opportunity to further innovate, acting upon customer feedback and new ideas which will set us apart from others."
Founding family member Sir Robin Knox-Johnston said, "I am so pleased that Haven Knox-Johnston, the brand my brother Chris and I helped to build over so many years, is coming back. The original business was built on pillars of knowledge, fairness and integrity and I am confident this will continue under the new ownership of Aston Lark."