SMI Group purchases Regions Insurance book of business

SMI Group, the Springfield division of Mississippi-based BancorpSouth Insurance Services Inc., purchased the Springfield property and casualty book of business from Regions Insurance, SMI said Tuesday.

John West and Jackie Roberts of Regions Insurance joined SMI Group and began servicing the local book of business on Jan. 1, according to an SMI news release. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed.

SMI Group is one of six divisions that operate as part of BancorpSouth Insurance Services, which ranked sixth among bank-owned insurance agencies as of June 30, according to the Michael White Associates Bank Insurance Fee Income Ratings Report.

West has more than 20 years of experience in the property and casualty insurance industry, while Roberts has more than 30 years of experience.

"I have known John for many years and think highly of his capabilities and professionalism," said Chris Stack, SMI Group president, in the release. "John and Jackie will be a good fit with our organization and will assist in our continuing efforts of providing broad insurance programs to many industry groups."