DeWITT, N.Y. — The DeWitt–based Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of New York (IIABNY) has rebranded as Big I New York.
A similar organization in New Jersey now calls itself the Big I New Jersey. The two trade groups collaborated on development of the new brand, according to a news release they jointly issued Monday.
“Big I New York 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,” Lisa Lounsbury, president and CEO of Big I New York, said in the release. “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.”
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Rich MacDonald, chairman of Big I New York board of directors, added, “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.” MacDonald also serves as VP and director of sales and marketing of Salina–based Haylor, Freyer & Coon, Inc.
The Big I New York says it has represented the common business interests of independent-insurance professionals since 1882. It represents more than 1,750 agencies and their 13,000-plus employees through legislative advocacy, continuing education, and other efforts. The nonprofit trade association’s new website is www.BigINY.org.
Contact Reinhardt at ereinhardt@cnybj.com


