Since 1945, Sims Insurance Agency has provided for the insurance needs of residents and businesses in the Williamsport community. Williamsport native Jeffrey B. Sims, President, said the agency covers all lines of insurance, including commercial, property, life, health and homeowners insurance.
"We're an independent agency," Sims said. "I took over in 1982."
The business was founded by Jeffrey's father, William R. Sims and was located at 45 Washington Blvd. until 2003, when it moved to 1036 Washington Blvd. Sims said the business's current location provides better access and parking for customers.
The agency's biggest change came in 2003, when it became part of the Keystone Insurers Group, a network of more than 200 agencies throughout the state. Joining the group has allowed Sims Insurance Agency to maintain its independence while pulling from a network of resources, Sims said. While the agency has been able to expand its business through the Keystone Insurers Group, its methods and character have not changed.
"We pride ourselves on personalized business," Sims said.
The agency's three insurance agents and four customer service representatives work one-on-one with customers to meet their specific needs, and Williamsport customers still appreciate that personalized touch.
"A lot of people still want the local service. They like to see the agent," Sims said, adding that many customers still make personal visits to the office to pay their bills. "People like the personal contact."
Sims Insurance Agency has been a member of the Williamsport-Lycoming Chamber of Commerce for more than 50 years, and Sims said the Williamsport/Lycoming Chamber of Commerce has been a great resource for networking and being part of the community. Sims believes Williamsport has a bright future and looks forward to the economic effects of the gas industry in the area. The Marcellus Shale industry "has been a big plus to the agency and to the community," he said.
