Based in Hull, East Yorkshire, Hinks Insurance has been supporting businesses and individuals since 1930 with local knowledge, personal service and competitive quotes.

Though we may be a local broker, our reach is significant thanks to our membership of Broker Network, the UK’s leading network of independent brokers. This membership grants us huge buying power with insurance companies, enabling us to negotiate the best cover at the best price for you, while maintaining our independence.

We provide all our clients with a dedicated account adviser who will work with you every step of the way to ensure that you have the right cover, as well as offering you advice on risk mitigation and attending insurer surveys if needed.

We believe in insurance with purpose; cover that keeps you protected while remaining transparent and cost-effective.

1930

During the August Bank Holiday of 1930, George Hinks decides to go into business as an insurance broker. On Tuesday August 5th, he sets up an office at his home (complete with old-style telephone number 209Y3) and opens his order book. Following considerable hard work, George A. Hinks & Co begins to prosper.

1931

George has chosen a favourable time to start his business, as on January 1st 1931, due to the original Road Traffic Act of 1930, it becomes compulsory for all motor vehicles on the road to require a certificate of insurance. It is no mean feat to ensure that all 12,500 vehicles registered in Hull have been issued with a valid certificate before the new year starts, but George A. Hinks & Co makes the most of the opportunity.

1934

Significant growth forces the business to move out of George’s home and into offices in Hull City Centre at Midland Street Corner.

1939

The outbreak of World War II forces the business to take a break, like many other local businesses. George himself volunteers to fight in the war and finds himself away from home for the next 5 years.

1945

It’s the end of the war, and due to significant bomb damage to commercial property in the city centre, George struggles to find suitable premises. Eventually an appropriate office is found on Princess Dock side and the business is re-established.

1956

Following further development, the business moves to more suitable accommodation at 58 Jameson Street and later in the year, John Hinks, son of George Hinks, joins the company after serving an apprenticeship with a national insurance company.

1970

The company relocates to its current premises at 16 Wright Street, following the success of the father and son partnership.

1985

Though initially a Personal Insurance broker, changes in the industry and the increasing popularity of over-the-phone insurance quotes, prompts the business to focus more towards Commercial Insurance for the first time – something that continues today.

1990

Current Managing Director Jonathan Hinks, grandson of founder George Hinks, and son of John Hinks, joins the business after working in the City of London. With his arrival, he becomes the third generation of the Hinks family to work for the business.

1999

The business highlights its commitment to growth with the creation of its first dedicated Sales & Marketing department. Current Hinks Director, Julie Thurlow is the first member of the new division.

2000

The company is accredited with ‘Investors in People’ status; achieving this standard recognises Hinks Insurance as a great employer, providing an outperforming place to work with a commitment to sustainability.

2001

Hinks joins the Broker Network – the UK’s largest network of independent insurance brokers. This allows the business to remain independent, whilst gaining significant buying power with insurance companies and benefiting from extra resources. This website was in fact built by the Broker Network’s Marketing team.

2015

After 16 years with the business, Julie Thurlow is appointed as a Director. Also, Hinks launch their Apprenticeship scheme, highlighting the company’s commitment to investing in training and development.

2020

March

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus, affects the world!

In the week commencing 23^rd March, Hinks started getting staff set up at home to work remotely in order to comply with government lockdown requirements to reduce the spread.

April

About half of the world’s population was under some form of lockdown, with more than 3.9 billion people in more than 90 countries or territories having been asked or ordered to stay at home by their governments.

June – August

Hinks did a phased return to work. By August we were back up and running in the office, however following strict guidelines from the government our offices remained closed to the public.

During August this year Hinks reached its 90th year of trading, unfortunately due to the Pandemic we could not celebrate.

November

Hinks staff leave the office again to work from home following rising infection rates.

2022

The office is now open as normal again.

In the event of a claim, we work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

We believe in insurance with purpose; cover that keeps you protected while remaining transparent and cost-effective. When you receive a quote from us, it will be easily understandable with our recommended insurances, their terms and their costs all clearly outlined. What’s more, we will archive all of your insurance documents digitally and will happily supply you with a copy of anything you need.

And in the event that you do need to make a claim, our specialist claims experts will be there to ensure your claim is handled promptly and effectively, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

If you’re looking for innovative and effective insurance that keeps you protected, think Hinks.

About Hinks