01
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.
02
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.
03
1934
Significant growth forces the business to move out of George’s home and into offices in Hull City Centre at Midland Street Corner.
04
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.
05
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.
06
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.
07
1970
The company relocates to its current premises at 16 Wright Street, following the success of the father and son partnership.
08
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.
09
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.
10
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.
11
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.
12
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.
13
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.
