Chico, CA – November 15, 2025 – Heritage Insurance Agency and GCI Insurance Brokers are pleased to announce an innovative merger designed to deliver the highest level of specialization and expertise to clients across the agricultural and insurance sectors. As part of this transition, Heritage Insurance Agency will acquire all Property & Casualty (P&C) lines of business, including farm, agribusiness, commercial, personal home, and auto policies, while GCI Insurance Brokers will take responsibility for all Heritage crop insurance operations under the name GCI Insurance Brokers.
This new structure was shaped in response to the growing complexity and evolving challenges of today’s insurance market, which demand a much deeper focus on specialized expertise. By reorganizing business lines, both agencies are better positioned to provide exceptional service that addresses the increasingly specific needs of their clients, especially within the agricultural community.
This merger is the culmination of years of mutual respect and open communication between two agencies who, though once friendly competitors, have always shared a family-centered culture and commitment to clients and employees. For Heritage, assuming the P&C lines is a natural progression for their robust team dedicated to farm and agribusiness. GCI, through GCI Crop Services, will build on its trusted legacy as a leader in crop insurance, providing continuity and guidance for both existing and future clients.
The official merger will take effect on January 1, 2026. Clients will see no changes or disruptions to their current services; the current GCI office in Orland, CA will remain open and continue to serve clients, now operating under the Heritage name. Meanwhile, crop insurance clients will work with Mick and Clint Smith, who will lead GCI Crop Insurance. Throughout the transition, both agencies will collaborate closely to guide clients, answer questions, and ensure a seamless handoff of relationships.
“This transition is more than a business decision—it’s about serving today’s complex insurance needs with true expertise,” said Steve Mora, President of Heritage Insurance Agency. “By aligning our organizations with what we each do best, we’re ensuring that clients—whether they need farm and agribusiness coverage or crop insurance—are served by specialists with deep experience and values rooted in family and community.”
“We’ve always recognized the strengths each agency brings to the table,” stated Mick Smith, President of GCI Insurance Brokers. “By each focusing on our respective specialties and working together more closely, we’ll serve our agricultural clients—and our communities—even better. This partnership reflects our deep roots, shared values, and desire to support the next generation of farmers and families.”
Both agencies are excited for what the future holds and are fully committed to ensuring a smooth transition for their clients. The merger not only enhances their ability to serve but also represents the shared foundation of respect and tradition that makes this partnership possible.
Customers are encouraged to visit each agency’s website for more information about the merger and details on how these changes will enhance their experience.
