MarketStance, a resource for demographic data and analytical services for the U.S. insurance industry, and GeoLogix Solutions, a market data and analysis firm specializing in insurance industry solutions, announced the merger of the two companies.

With the merger, Jim Hearn, CEO of GeoLogix Solutions, is returning to MarketStance to assume the position of chief marketing officer, the position he held during his last tenure, and will be responsible for strategic business development, marketing, sales, client services, and communications.

"During my absence, MarketStance implemented transformative advancements in the capabilities of their production and new product development teams," says Hearn. "The new products, the enhanced production capabilities, and the user interfaces for all of MarketStance's products are simply revitalizing."

"I'm very excited about what this new development means for MarketStance and our clients," says Fritz Yohn, MarketStance CEO. "Jim brings a deep understanding of the issues insurers, agents and brokers face, as well as a practical approach to designing solutions to help them address those issues. That translates into actionable tools and insights that can be effectively and quickly applied by clients. And, Jim's needs analysis discovery process combined with a solutions-focused product and sales approach, as well as his insistence on high-touch, responsive client services, will enhance what MarketStance can deliver to clients. It's a real win-win—for both our clients and our firms."

The decision to join forces rather than compete was mutually agreed to after a few exploratory discussions. Coupling the solutions approach that GeoLogix used to meet the needs of agents, brokers and insurance companies with the production resources, delivery platforms, and data resources of MarketStance will ensure that clients and prospective clients see increased value from any investment in MarketStance products.

The merger is effective immediately.