Fortified is proud to celebrate 11 member agencies recognized in the 2026 Best Practices Study update from the Independent Insurance Agents & Brokers of America (Big “I”) and Reagan Consulting.
This recognition is a meaningful achievement for the agencies selected and reflects the leadership, dedication, and strong business practices demonstrated throughout the independent insurance industry.
Celebrating Excellence in Independent Insurance
Each year, the Big “I” and Reagan Consulting’s Best Practices Study examines the performance of independent insurance agencies across the country, providing valuable insights into the financial and operational practices of high-performing agencies.
The study evaluates key performance indicators and offers benchmarks that help agencies understand what contributes to sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and long-term success.
Being recognized as a Best Practices agency is a significant distinction within the independent insurance community.
11 Fortified Members Earn National Recognition
Fortified is especially proud that 11 of its member agencies are included among the recognized Best Practices agencies for 2026.
These agencies represent the dedication, innovation, and commitment to excellence that help strengthen the independent agency channel.
Their recognition is a reflection of the hard work taking place every day within their organizations, from agency leadership and strategic planning to customer relationships and operational performance.
| State | Recognized Member Agencies |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Thames Batre Insurance, Starke Agency |
| Kentucky | Higgins Insurance |
| Mississippi | Galloway-Chandler-McKinney Insurance, Lemon Mohler Insurance Agency, Southgroup Ins & Financial Services |
| North Carolina | HPB Insurance |
| Tennessee | Martin & Zerfoss, Powell & Meadows, Widener Insurance Agency |
| West Virginia | Mountain States Insurance Agency |
We congratulate each of these agencies and their teams on this outstanding accomplishment.
Strengthening the Independent Agency Community
At Fortified, we believe independent agencies are stronger when they have opportunities to collaborate, share knowledge, and learn from one another.
The success of our members is something we are proud to celebrate. Recognition through the Best Practices Study demonstrates the impact that thoughtful leadership, sound business strategies, and a commitment to continuous improvement can have on an agency’s long-term success.
We look forward to seeing our members continue to grow, lead, and contribute to the future of independent insurance.
Congratulations to Our Recognized Members!
To the 11 Fortified members recognized in the 2026 Best Practices Study update: Congratulations on this well-deserved achievement!
Your accomplishments reflect the strength of independent agencies and provide an example of what dedication and forward-thinking leadership can achieve.
We are proud to have you as part of the Fortified network.
Read the full announcement from the Big “I” and Reagan Consulting:
https://www.independentagent.com/news/big-i-and-reagan-consulting-release-2026-best-practices-study-update/