Sumner & Toner celebrates 75 years

Date: 1/12/2009

LONGMEADOW Sumner & Toner Insurance Agency Inc., an independent insurance provider of comprehensive coverage to auto, home and business owners throughout New England, celebrates their 75th anniversary as a dual father and son team.

Warren Sumner and Bill Toner have made their partnership a unique family business with their sons, Bud Sumner and Jack Toner, serving as the company's sales representatives.

The agency began in 1933 with two employees in a one-room office in Springfield to provide insurance services to friends, business associates and others in the area. After several mergers and acquisitions, the company became Sumner & Toner Insurance Agency Inc. in 1998.

The agency now has 10 employees in the Longmeadow office many of whom have been with the company for an average of 15 years and a second office in Needham.

"We're proud to have provided so many local families and companies with just the right amount of coverage at the very best rates," said Warren Sumner. "We're also very proud to have both of our sons on board to help steer the company into the next 75 years. They know the business and share our commitment to outstanding service. Our customers are in excellent hands with the next generation of Sumner & Toner."

In addition to adding their sons' energy and expertise, the agency has made great strides in securing the longevity and profitability of the company. "We've expanded our business in the last two years by serving a broader market and adding a satellite office in eastern Massachusetts," said Bill Toner. "We've also invested in the latest technology to streamline our business. Our next two-year goal is to grow the business in areas we've

been most successful personal and commercial insurance services."

"We are in the service industry, but with a more hands-on, personal relationship with our customers," said Jack Toner. "We make a difference in peoples' lives by offering policies, advice and support that truly help the individual or business. We don't operate from a one-size-fits-all approach."

Bud Sumner added, "We're always accessible to our customers during business hours. You'll deal with the same agent when you open a policy or make a claim. Any one of us will go to your home or office to inspect damage. That's all on top of adequate coverage at affordable rates. Jack and I are committed to carry on that level of personal service."

Visit www.sumnertoner.com to learn more about Sumner & Toner or call Bill Toner at 567-6161.