The Innovation Group, a global provider of business process services and software to the insurance, fleet, motor and property industries, has announced the acquisition of Crashworth.

Crashworth manages an established motor repair network. Its clients include Enterprise Rent a Car and two large insurance brokers in the UK, representing more than 40 different insurance brands.

It also has a consultancy arm that has a blue-chip client base in the UK motor claims industry and has undertaken projects for six of the top 10 motor insurers.

The combined business will mean Innovation Group will become the second largest manager of vehicle repair claims in the UK, according to the company.

Chris Ashworth, the founder of Crashworth and a leading figure in the UK motor claims industry for the last 20 years, will join the Innovation Group as managing director of the enlarged UK motor division. Ashworth will replace Matthew Whittall, former managing director of Innovation Group’s motor division in central Europe.

Whittall will now "take on a new challenge outside of the company" but will continue to serve on the board of Innovation Group Germany and will work with the organisation on some key projects.

Innovation Group’s CEO Andy Roberts said: "We’re extremely excited to bring this highly respected and successful company into the group. Crashworth’s consistent focus on service and price means the organisation delivers a market leading journey for both the insurer and customer, as well as fast cycle times.

"The acquisition will significantly bolster our offering to the motor insurance industry. By combining the products and services of the two businesses, we’ll be able to provide a comprehensive product range to large insurers, brokers and fleets, while the consolidation of the two organisations will mean we can offer the very best consultancy proposition for clients seeking to gain competitive advantage in a fast changing environment.”

Chris Ashworth added: "Becoming part of Innovation Group, a strong global business, is a very exciting move for us and will provide opportunities to expand our service. As well as strengthening our offerings to our many existing motor insurer customers, I’m looking forward to working closely with the UK property insurance business that has a market leading position and trading best practises."

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