Sept. 25, 2017 - Today, the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New Jersey became Big I New Jersey and the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York is now also known as Big I New York. The two organizations collaborated on development of the new brand.  

Gerald Ford, Big I New Jersey, Chairman Vice President of Commercial Lines, Allen & Stults Co

"As the business climate and insurance industry change, we felt that it was time for our organization to be more representative of where we were going.  

The evolution of IIABNJ to the Big I New Jersey is smart for us. It is rooted in a vastly understood and respected name, but now as the forefront of our association, the brand has a modern edge that will stand the test of time. As we bring about new systems and programs for our members, doing so under the Big I brand only makes sense. And, to do so in union with our partners in New York is demonstrative that we, as the Big I, are the future of all independent insurance agents in our region."

Rich McDonald, Big I New York, Chairman VP, Director of Sales & Marketing, Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.

"We want agents to know who has and have always had their best interests. There should be no question where they belong and why, because our team does excellent work. As a big believer in keeping it simple, Big I New York will be a name that agents remember.  

One hallmark of the Big I is strength in numbers. That power has been ever-present through our collaboration with New Jersey and we've only scratched the surface."  

Sheri Acconzo, Big I New Jersey, President & CEO

"I am proud of the direction that our organization has chosen and am excited about the renewed focus on member experience that the re-branding initiative will bring. As we head into our banner 125th year serving New Jersey independent insurance agents, I cannot think of a more perfect time to reaffirm our position in the market. As the Big I New Jersey, we remain connected to our roots while demonstrating who we will be in the future. To be embarking on this journey with our sister organization in New York further demonstrates the stature of the Big I in our region."  

Lisa Lounsbury, Big I New York, President & CEO

"Beginning today, through the power of collaboration with the NJ association, we are transitioning our brand from IIABNY to Big I New York.  

Big I New York (www.BigINY.org) lays the foundation for the future that we are building for our members, their employees and the independent agency industry. This isn't simply a new logo and name, this starts the next era of delivering what agents need us to be. We will channel the collective knowledge, resources and connections available on a local, state, cross - state and national level to propel our members to the top. Our voice will be stronger and bigger to advance and protect the interests of independent agencies." 

About Big I New York

The Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York, Inc. (Big I NY) has represented the common business interests of independent insurance professionals since 1882. More than 1,750 agencies and their 13,000 plus employees currently rely on the DeWitt, New York-based not-for-profit trade association for legislative advocacy, continuing education and other means of industry support. In addition, most Big I NY members proudly identify themselves as Trusted Choice® agents and brokers, a national consumer brand uniting more than 21,000 independent agencies across the United States.

For more information, visit www.BigINY.org

About Big I New Jersey
Established in 1893, and based in Trenton, NJ, the non-profit Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New Jersey (Big I NJ) represents hundreds of locations and thousands of independent insurance agents and employees in local communities throughout New Jersey. These agents and brokers offer all lines of personal and business insurance, including, property, casualty, life, and health from a variety of insurance companies. This diversity enables flexibility, customization, competitive pricing and advocacy for the end consumer. Big I NJ members are Trusted Choice® agents committed to providing a high level of responsive, ethical, courteous and personalized customer service. Big I NJ is the state association for the nation's oldest and largest national association of independent insurance agents and brokers.

For more information, visit www.BigINJ.org