Two North Carolina businesses that began serving their clients in the early years of the 1980s and 2000s are now combined to serve the state’s communities in the years ahead. First Pioneer Insurance Agency and Joshua E. Matthews Insurance Agency, of Aberdeen and Durham, merged on Jan. 1, 2022, to continue as First Pioneer Insurance Agency and maintain an affiliation with Erie Insurance, one of the top 25 property and casualty insurance companies in the nation. The announcement came from the agency principals and managing co-owners, C. Wayne Matthews and his son, Joshua E. Matthews.
According to Josh, “We are excited about the merger with First Pioneer Insurance Agency. The new agency represents a tremendous opportunity for all of our customers as it will enable us to provide a broader set of services.” The ties the businesses share with the people of North Carolina began in 1980 for First Pioneer and 2005 for Josh Matthews. “Both agencies are extremely proud of the quality of their agents, the quality of their insurance products, and the quality of their service. Our customers can expect the same focus and the same great service,” notes Josh.
“My son, Josh’s expertise in insurance, risk management, and commercial lines will increase our ability to serve our customers,” according to Wayne. “We are grateful for this new partnership and proud to incorporate Joshua E. Matthews Insurance into First Pioneer Insurance Agency.”
Josh began his insurance career in 2003 with Matthews Insurance & Financial Services and started his own agency in 2005. He has extensive experience in auto, home, life, and business insurance. He is a member of the Independent Insurance Agents of North Carolina and holds the professional designation of Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC).
Wayne began his insurance career in 1983. He founded Matthews Insurance in 2003 and merged with First Pioneer in 2017. He specializes in multiple lines of coverage including business insurance, farm and agriculture, workers compensation, life insurance and financial planning. He is a member of the Financial Services Institute of America and holds the professional designations of Accredited Adviser in Insurance (AAI) and Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP).
The new agency will operate in the current office locations at 1901 N Poplar Street in Aberdeen and 2144 Page Road in Durham. The merger will not affect customer policies, and familiar staff from both agencies will be available to assist clients. To learn more, please call (910) 944-2848 or visit www.pioneerinsurance.com.
Feature photo: L,R: Joshua E. Matthews and his father, C. Wayne Matthews.
Courtesy photo/Contributed.
