Holloway Friendly and Wiltshire Friendly propose merger to create a stronger mutual for members.
Both societies share a long history of supporting members when illness or injury stops them working.
They also share a special connection. Both organisations trace their roots back to George Holloway and his pioneering ideas for the friendly society movement.
This combined organisation will create a stronger, more resilient mutual, focused on delivering high-quality income protection and health-related benefits to members across the UK.
The proposed merger represents a future-focused step to create a more impactful mutual at a time when the need for financial resilience and protection has never been greater.
A shared heritage
Friendly societies were built on a simple idea. People supporting each other when times are difficult.
That idea still sits at the heart of both organisations today.
Holloway Friendly and Wiltshire Friendly have both spent generations helping members protect their income and their financial wellbeing.
This proposal reflects that common purpose and a commitment to supporting members for many years to come.
Comment
Ben Pears, CEO at Holloway Friendly, said:
"Wiltshire Friendly and Holloway Friendly share a proud mutual history and the same purpose.
This is a significant opportunity to build a stronger, more sustainable mutual for our member-focused organisation. Wiltshire Friendly shares our values, our heritage and our commitment to doing the right thing for our members."
Jon Gratland, CEO at Wiltshire Friendly, said:
"Our organisations have a natural alignment in purpose and culture. This merger allows us to build on our respective strengths and create a mutual that is in a better position for the future.
Our focus throughout will be on delivering long-term value for members, supporting our staff and maintaining the high standards of service both mutuals are known for.”
Next steps
The proposed merger will be subject to regulatory approval, further details will be shared with members, advisers and colleagues in due course.