Connor Lynch and Brendan Lynch
Commercial And Personal Insurance
It’s all in the family at Plastridge Insurance. The company recently celebrated its 106th year in business. Connor Lynch, CEO and brother Brendan Lynch, president, took over the family business from their father and CEO Tom Lynch in 2019. He bought the company in 1974 from his father-in-law who had run it since 1949.
With the family legacy in their hands, they keep some traditions, like a culture of honesty and integrity. “We inherited these values from our father and grandfather. Our employees and clients trust us to do the right thing even when it’s hard,” says Connor.
But they are also forging their own path in a world dramatically different than 1919 when the company was founded.
“This company has been around through world wars, trials and tribulations and major hurricanes. It’s impressive that Plastridge navigated through all of it,” says Connor.
That longevity isn’t taken for granted. “We adapt to change. Dad always talked about Darwinism. Those that adapt survive,” says Brendan.
The company used to be a major agricultural insurer but in the 1970s as farmers began selling their land, their father pivoted to growing areas like condo and homeowner associations. More recently the expansion included adult living and childcare facilities.
They weren’t at the helm long when COVID hit. “We were well positioned because we had protocols in place as part of our preparedness for hurricanes. Within a day everyone was up and running working from home,” says Brendan.
Succession occurred slowly over 10-15 years and they admit it wasn’t always smooth. “We navigated it the best we could and are grateful it worked out as well as it has,” says Connor.
Looking over the last five years, the future looks bright. Staff growth is up 10% and revenues two and half to three times what they were.
Many of the 97 employees have been there 25+ years, one more than 50. “Some watched us grow up and now we are leading the business, that’s an interesting dynamic,” says Connor.
Such connections create the family vibe and they show their appreciation with generous benefits like a profit-sharing plan they fund that employees don’t have to contribute to.
If there’s a secret to sustainability, says Brendan, “Employees and clients come first.”
Plastridge Insurance, 820 N.E. 6th Ave., Delray Beach, 561-276-5221, plastridge.com
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