The integration of the IRM Broker Group into the HBC platform creates a powerful Austrian hub for commercial and industrial insurance with an international reach.
The IRM Broker Group has integrated its companies into the internationally positioned Hanseatic Broking Center GmbH and, as part of this partnership, has become a shareholder in the HBC Group. With this move, IRM is setting the course for its next phase of development while simultaneously strengthening its position as one of Austria’s leading specialized commercial and industrial brokers. The integration into the HBC platform creates a powerful Austrian hub for commercial and industrial insurance with international reach.
For more than 36 years, IRM has been regarded as a hidden champion in the Austrian market. With a highly specialized product portfolio—including coverage in the areas of commercial general liability, logistics/transportation, industrial and large-scale commercial insurance, and franchising—and long-standing relationships with leading Austrian family-owned businesses, the company enjoys an exceptionally strong market position.
For clients, this partnership means one thing above all else: added strength. By joining the HBC Group, IRM gains access to international placement expertise, expanded specialized know-how, and additional resources for complex and cross-border mandates. At the same time, IRM remains operationally independent and maintains its clear focus on the commercial and industrial sectors in Austria.
Michael Patocka, founder and CEO of IRM, explains: “Over the decades, we have built IRM into a highly specialized partner for commercial and industrial clients. By joining the HBC Group, we are not only securing our long-term growth but also creating new opportunities for our clients—particularly in international programs, complex risks, and larger mandates. At the same time, we remain true to what has made us strong: entrepreneurial, specialized, and close to the market.”
As part of this partnership, Michael Patocka will, in addition to his role as Managing Director of the IRM Group, also serve as CEO of the HBC Group’s Austrian holding company. In this role, he will be responsible for the further development of the Austrian platform, the expansion of market and supplier relationships, and the strategic positioning of the group in Austria.
Christian Wimmer will also remain on board as Head of Industrial Clients. With his experience in international corporations, franchise structures, and private equity environments, as well as his access to leading family-owned businesses, he will significantly expand the group’s network and strategic impact.
Christian Wimmer emphasizes: “Over many years, IRM has established itself as a specialist with an excellent reputation. The partnership with HBC opens up new strategic opportunities for us—particularly with regard to larger industrial and family-owned companies, as well as international growth opportunities. At the same time, our entrepreneurial DNA remains fully intact.”
“By joining the HBC Group, IRM is strategically strengthening its growth potential and operational capabilities—particularly to the benefit of its commercial and industrial clients through expanded international reach and additional resources, while offering clear prospects for employees and the next generation of the company founder’s family,” said Fabian Tröppner (MarshBerry), the M&A advisor to Mr. Patocka and Mr. Wimmer.
We are delighted to welcome our colleagues from IRM to our group. IRM brings with it an exceptionally strong team, deep expertise, and an impressive track record of entrepreneurial success.
Gert Schlossmacher, CEO HBC Group
“It is precisely these kinds of partners who enrich our group—both personally and professionally. Together, we want to further develop this expertise and unlock new growth opportunities for our clients and our organization,” adds Gert Schlossmacher.
This partnership lays the foundation for further growth in Austria. The goal is to further expand our strong market position in the commercial and industrial sectors, scale up exclusive specialized solutions, and create additional capacity to handle larger projects. For our clients, this means greater expertise, greater stability, and even more effective support—both nationally and internationally.