OTTAWA, IL / ACCESS Newswire / October 6, 2026 / WalkerHughes Insurance ("WalkerHughes") is pleased to announce that IIP Insurance Agency ("IIP"), a trusted insurance provider serving Ottawa and surrounding Illinois communities, has joined WalkerHughes.

With roots dating back more than a century, IIP has built a reputation for personalized service and strong community relationships. Since acquiring the agency in 1995, owners Jay Bottarini and Pete McGrath have continued that tradition while growing the business throughout the region.

"We've spent more than 30 years focused on building trusted relationships with our clients and serving the community that has supported us throughout our lives," said Pete McGrath. "As we considered the future of the agency, it was important to find a partner who shared our commitment to clients, our employees, and the Ottawa community. WalkerHughes stood out because of its investment in local agencies and its focus on helping teams serve clients."

As part of WalkerHughes, IIP will have access to additional resources to support clients' evolving needs while continuing to serve the Ottawa community. "When we met the WalkerHughes team, it felt familiar," said Jay Bottarini, Principal of IIP Insurance Agency. "They're built around many of the same values that have guided our agency for decades. This partnership allows us to continue taking care of our clients and supporting our community while readying our agency for the future."

"We are honored to welcome IIP Insurance Agency to the WalkerHughes family," said Benjamin Schoettmer, CEO of WalkerHughes Insurance. "Jay, Pete, and their team have built an agency grounded in trust, service, and deep community involvement. Their reputation in Ottawa reflects exactly the kind of partnership we seek, and we're excited to support their continued growth."

ABOUT WALKERHUGHES GROUP, LLC.

WalkerHughes Insurance is a privately held, founder-led retail insurance brokerage headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. The company provides commercial lines, personal lines, and employee benefits services. Since 2023, WalkerHughes has partnered with BW Forsyth Partners, a Missouri-based private investment firm with a long-term investment horizon. For more information, visit WalkerHughes.com.

MEDIA CONTACT
Jennifer Fishering
(314) 917-5260
j.fishering@walkerhughes.com

SOURCE: WalkerHughes Insurance