CHICAGO, IL, (OCTOBER 10, 2012) – The Horton Group of Orland Park, Illinois today announced a strategic merger agreement with Cassady Neeser & Brasseur of South Bend, Indiana.

The merger, effective October 31, 2012, combines two leading agencies providing a full-range of insurance, risk management and employee benefits services.  Clients of both agencies will benefit immediately from the collective talent and expertise of the group.

Cassady Neeser & Brasseur, with offices in South Bend and Elkhart, will retain their name and client service teams will remain consistent through the merger process.  The current partners, Tom Cassady, Gregg Brasseur and Tricia Mentock, will remain and become shareholders of The Horton Group focused on growing the business.  The agency will continue its 90-year history of leadership in the communities it serves.  Cassady Neeser & Brasseur’s website is www.cassady.net.

“I’m delighted Cassady Neeser & Brasseur will join us in our journey to become the leading insurance agency in the Midwest” remarked Glenn Horton, CEO of The Horton Group.  “Their reputation for integrity and commitment to clients, employees and community is unmatched in northern Indiana and southwest Michigan.”

The Horton Group, founded in 1971, is the 56th largest insurance agency in the United States with 300 employees in Illinois, Indiana and Wisconsin.  The Horton Group’s website is www.thehortongroup.com.

“We have long admired The Horton Group’s entrepreneurial mindset,” said Tom Cassady, Jr., Managing Partner of Cassady Neeser & Brasseur.  “As we have gotten to know their leadership on a personal level, we have discovered a shared business approach and culture that assures us we will see long-term success from this partnership.”  Tom Cassady will serve as Indiana Division President for The Horton Group after the merger.