ICMIF members Beneva and Gore Mutual have announced the official completion of their merger, marking an important milestone for the mutual insurance sector in Canada.
The merger became effective on 1 January 2026, following the initial announcement of the two organisations’ intention to merge in January 2025. All required legislative and regulatory approvals have now been secured, including endorsements from members of both mutuals, the Competition Bureau, and relevant governing authorities, as well as the adoption of private bills by the Senate of Canada and the Quebec National Assembly.
The combination brings together two financially strong and well-established mutual insurers, reinforcing the role of the mutual model in delivering long-term, purpose-driven value to members, brokers, and communities across Canada.
Over the next year, Gore Mutual will combine its operations with Unica, an Ontario-based subsidiary of Beneva. During this transition period, Gore and Unica will continue to operate as separate businesses. Gore will eventually operate as a standalone subsidiary under the Beneva brand.
Jean-François Chalifoux, President and CEO of Beneva, said the merger supports Beneva’s long-term growth ambitions and strengthens its national presence: “This merger is a major step forward for Beneva. It supports our growth ambition and positions us to expand across the country.
Chalifoux continued: “We are thrilled to welcome Andy Taylor to our Executive Management Committee and to bring Gore’s talented employees into the Beneva team. This achievement reflects the tremendous effort of everyone across Beneva, Gore and Unica, who worked together to bring this vision to life. Together, we will build a stronger future for our members and partners.”
Effective 1 January 2026, Andy Taylor has joined Beneva’s Executive Management Committee as Executive Vice President and Leader, P&C Ontario and West, with overall responsibility for Gore and Unica. Unica’s leadership team will continue to play a key role in ensuring a smooth integration process.
Andy Taylor said the merger creates new opportunities to enhance customer experience and strengthen property and casualty offerings, saying: “We are eager to work hand in hand with the Unica team and all our colleagues across Beneva to build a strong foundation. By combining our expertise and resources, we will continue to improve the customer experience and enhance property and casualty products to better meet the needs of members and brokers. Merging with Beneva is about creating something greater together, and I’m proud to be part of this shared journey.”
The integration will take place in two phases, beginning with the alignment of systems, workflows, and operating models, followed by the broader integration of Gore and Unica into Beneva where appropriate.
With the completion of the merger, Gore Mutual’s members have become members of Beneva Mutual. Gore Mutual Insurance Company has changed its legal name to Gore Insurance Company, with no impact on customers or brokers. The Gore brand will remain in place throughout 2026, with a transition to the Beneva brand anticipated within one year.
