Phenix Mutual to join with Ohio-based insurance group

Pending approval by state regulators and policyholders, Concord-based Phenix Mutual Fire Insurance Co. will soon become an affiliate of The Motorists Insurance Group of Columbus, Ohio - a move that the firms say will bring new insurance products to Phenix and may bring new jobs to the Concord area.

The 123-year-old Phenix is a property and casualty insurer that operates in New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and South Carolina. In 2008, the company posted $26.5 million in direct and assumed written premiums.

If the affiliation is approved, Phenix Mutual will...