Western Financial Group announces acquisition of leading insurance brokerage in Roblin, Manitoba

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HIGH RIVER, AB, Jan. 3, 2012 /CNW/ - As part of its ongoing commitment to become the strongest financial services company in western Canada, Western Financial Group ("Western") announced today that it has acquired Roblin Insurance Travel and Realty Agencies Ltd. in Roblin, Manitoba.

The Roblin brokerage, which has been serving the community since 1976, will now operate as a Western Financial Group office.

"Roblin is another superb addition to our Network of offices across western Canada," said Scott Tannas, President and CEO of Western Financial Group. "We will be bringing a wider range of products to and offering more choices for our customers in Roblin and the entire Parkland area."

"Our announcement today demonstrates Western Financial Group's commitment to west central Manitoba," continued Tannas, "we are excited to be a part of this province's vibrant growth and renewed energy. Roblin is a thriving hub for outdoor enthusiasts and the town is poised for growth, with new businesses opening, and new residents arriving. We're proud to be a part of this great story."

Western Financial Group will be building upon Roblin Insurance Travel and Realty Agencies years of success. Existing and future customers will benefit from Western's larger scale and breadth. The Roblin office will be managed by Terry Hawryluk.

"Terry has been at this location and actively involved in his community for more than 30 years. Terry has the same values, cares and interests as the people he serves. Terry and his team's strong values, commitment to customer service, and loyalty to the Roblin community are a great example of what Western is all about." concluded Tannas.

The Western office will remain at 206 Main Street in the town centre of Roblin.

About Western Financial Group

Western Financial Group is a western Canada based, diversified, financial services company serving more than 600,000 customers. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in High River, Alberta. Western provides insurance, banking and investment products and services through more than 120 office locations, the internet (www.westernfinancialgroup.ca) and other distribution channels. With a skilled team of approximately 1,500 employees, and backed by the strong resources of its owners, Western is committed to building the strongest financial services company in western Canada.

Western Financial Group is a subsidiary of Desjardins Group, the leading cooperative financial group in Canada and the sixth largest in the world.

For further information:

James Savage
Executive Vice President
Corporate Communications and Brand Marketing
Western Financial Group
403-652-2663
[e-mail]