Higginbotham expands its presence in Georgia with new acquisition

Higginbotham, a renowned Texan insurance firm, has recently solidified its presence in the Southeast by acquiring Tidwell & Hilburn Insurance in Macon, Georgia. This strategic move reflects Higginbotham’s commitment to expanding its reach in the region, with Tidwell & Hilburn now serving as the 11th office in Georgia under the Higginbotham umbrella.

Rusty Reid, Chairman and CEO of Higginbotham, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, emphasizing the longstanding reputation that Tidwell & Hilburn has cultivated in Central Georgia over the past nine decades. Reid highlighted the importance of community trust and client care, values that align seamlessly with those of Higginbotham. He warmly welcomed Tidwell & Hilburn into the Higginbotham family, recognizing their dedication to their people, clients, and neighbors.

The origins of Tidwell & Hilburn trace back to the Sam Chandler Agency in 1920, later evolving into the Dan Tidwell Agency more than 25 years thereafter. Further changes in ownership led to the establishment of Tidwell & Hilburn Insurance in 2006 when Rusty Hilburn assumed a leadership role.

Cole Tidwell, President of Tidwell & Hilburn, shed light on the considerations that guided the decision to partner with Higginbotham. With a focus on ensuring the agency’s legacy and nurturing promising talent like Will Argo and Adam English, Tidwell sought a structure that supported long-term sustainability and growth. The transition to joining forces with Higginbotham, a firm with an established employee ownership model, offered the necessary framework to propel the agency forward.

Established in 1948 by Paul Higginbotham in Riverside, Texas, Higginbotham has undergone significant growth and evolution over the decades. Following Paul Higginbotham’s passing in 1962, his nephew Bill Stroud assumed leadership, eventually facilitating the transition to employee ownership in 1989. Today, Higginbotham stands as the premier independent insurance, financial, and HR services firm in Texas and ranks 20th nationwide, according to Business Insurance.

Cole Tidwell emphasized the enduring legacy of the Tidwell name, underscoring the importance of the agency’s history and reputation. Reflecting on past decisions to integrate additional partners into the agency, Tidwell expressed confidence in the mutually beneficial nature of the new partnership with Higginbotham. This sentiment was echoed by Rusty Hilburn, whose inclusion in the agency in 2006 marked a pivotal turning point, setting the stage for a future of expanded opportunities and growth.

Overall, the acquisition of Tidwell & Hilburn by Higginbotham signifies a strategic alignment of values and goals, ushering in a new chapter of collaboration and growth for both entities.