Smith & Eddy expands ag division, acquires Central Michigan Crop Insurance.

December 12, 2018

From left: Knowles, Christensen, owner Patty Smith, President Scott Smith.

Smith & Eddy expands ag division, acquires Central Michigan Crop Insurance.

SCOTTVILLE — Smith & Eddy Insurance Ag Division, headed by Vice President Joe Knowles, has purchased Central Michigan Crop Insurance Agency. Smith & Eddy finalized the purchase of central Michigan’s premier crop insurance agency this past week.

Central Michigan Crop Insurance owner Bryce Christensen and Knowles have been talking about a possible fit between the two companies.

“We’ve been looking to expand our ag division for several years and this accomplishes that,” Knowles said. “This is not like an acquisition or a takeover, this is a partnership between Bryce and us helping each other continue to grow.”

“This was a perfect fit, a local family owned agency that is able to help me service our customers with the 110% service that they expect,” Christensen said.  “Nothing is going to change for Central Michigan Crop customers, we will continue our strong relationships…however now we have Joe and his team to help and we also have the additional property Insurance options that Smith & Eddy can offer, it’s a win win for both”

Smith & Eddy Insurance has been serving its customers since 1902 primarily in Mason, Oceana, Lake and Manistee counties. Christensen has worked in the agricultural industry his entire life including his days with Stanton Seed . He lives in Edmore. Central Michigan Crop Insurance has relationships with customers throughout the state but primarily operates in Montcalm, Osceola, Isabella, and Mecosta counties.

“The merger of these two local family owned businesses will help provide both west Michigan and central Michigan residents with even more options for insurance protection improving opportunities for local farms and families to receive the very best in customer service and insurance products available to them all in one place,” Knowles said.

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