COLUMBUS, OH (April 2026) – The Ohio Insurance Agents Association (OIA) today announced that The Hanover Insurance Group has joined its Independent Market Solutions (IMS) platform, expanding commercial market access for independent agents across Ohio.
The addition of The Hanover marks the eighth carrier to participate in IMS and reflects ongoing momentum behind the program. Known for its deep underwriting expertise, broad product portfolio, and commitment to independent agents, The Hanover brings enhanced capabilities that directly support member growth.
Through IMS, OIA members gain access to The Hanover’s flexible, account-based approach to commercial lines, with solutions available for a wide range of risks, from small business to complex commercial. Available coverage includes business owner’s policies, commercial auto, general liability, property, and umbrella, along with specialty solutions like cyber, professional liability, management liability, marine, and surety.
“The addition of The Hanover is a major win for our members, especially those focused on growing their commercial lines business,” said Dustin Mahrt, Program Manager. “Their ability to deliver tailored solutions across industries, combined with strong underwriting support and service, makes them an outstanding partner within IMS.”
The Hanover is especially well-positioned to support small and middle-market commercial accounts, with a broad appetite spanning hundreds of business classes and industry segments—including manufacturing, healthcare, technology, real estate, and professional services. Many products can be quoted and issued online, helping agencies respond more efficiently to client needs.
IMS provides agencies with a strategic entry point to work with carriers like The Hanover, particularly for those that may not meet traditional appointment requirements. By placing business through the platform, agencies can build production history and develop carrier relationships that may lead to direct appointments overtime.
As IMS continues to grow, partnerships like this reinforce OIA’s commitment to helping members navigate market challenges and access competitive, reliable solutions that support long-term agency success.
For real-time access to all the carriers, you can find more information at https://ohioinsuranceagents.com/product-services/market-access-solutions/ or https://www.imsaccess.com/states/ohio/. Reach out to Program Manager Dustin Mahrt at dustin@ohioinsuranceagents.com or at (614) 552-3087.
About the Author:
Dustin is Company Partners Manager here at OIA & considers himself an industry “lifer” with 20 years of industry experience. Upon graduating in 2003 from Ohio University with a finance degree, Dustin started off in sales at his best friend’s Dad’s captive agency. He has underwritten & managed territories for Buckeye Insurance Group (Piqua, OH) & has worked with carriers to recruit agents into the industry. This is Dustin’s 2nd stint @ OIA, the 1st stint being the pre-Big “I” merger at PIA on the E&O team. In between stints, he helped State Auto’s Product team implement their digital Commercial Auto product in their 33 operating states. He brings a passion for our industry & has achieved the API (Associate in Personal Insurance) designation from the American Institute For Chartered Property Casualty Underwriters (The Institutes).
