HUB International Merges Illinois Operations

    Business Editors

    CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jan. 3, 2005--Hub International Limited (NYSE:HBG)(TSX:HBG) announced that it merged its subsidiary, Talbot Agency of Illinois, Inc., with its Chicago-based subsidiary, Hub International of Illinois Limited, effective December 31, 2004. The merged brokerage will carry on business as HUB International Illinois. The merger and name change reflect a corporate-wide effort to build stronger national brand awareness and thereby enhance the firm's effectiveness in servicing its clients throughout North America.
    Founded in 1946, Talbot Agency of Illinois, Inc., previously known as Glenview Insurance Agency, has office locations in Glenview and Naperville and was acquired by Hub International on July 1, 2004. Following the acquisition, Bill Zanoni was named President and CEO of HUB International Illinois.
    "When HUB acquired Talbot, it gained a broader North American presence and Talbot gained worldwide resources to better serve our clients," said Bill Zanoni, President and Chief Executive Officer of HUB International Illinois. "The merger and name consolidation will create a more productive culture and identity and will strengthen our position within the insurance marketplace, which means more choice and value for our clients. Our offices in Glenview and Naperville are stronger than ever."

    Headquartered in Chicago, IL, Hub International Limited is a leading North American insurance brokerage that provides a broad array of property and casualty, life and health, employee benefits, investment and risk management products and services through offices located in the United States and Canada.

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CONTACT: HUB International Illinois MEDIA CONTACT: William T. Zanoni, 312-279-4888 william.zanoni@hubinternational.com or INVESTOR CONTACT: W. Kirk James, 312-279-4881 kjames@hubinternational.com

KEYWORD: ILLINOIS INDUSTRY KEYWORD: INSURANCE MERGERS/ACQ SOURCE: Hub International Limited

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