Owens Insurance Agency Celebrates 70 Years in Business

Greer, South Carolina – As 2022 comes to a close, Owens Insurance Agency, an independent insurance agency serving the construction industry in the Upstate of South Carolina and beyond, is wrapping up a year-long anniversary celebration marking 70 years in business. Owens is now under third-generation ownership. Owens Insurance first opened its doors in downtown Greer in 1952, when gasoline was 28 cents per gallon, a new car cost $1,700, and the most popular baby names were James and Linda.

Owens Insurance Agency was originally founded by Don Owens as a personal lines agency serving the citizens of Greer. As Owens Insurance grew in size and reputation, Don’s son Riley joined the agency. Riley added business insurance, spurring another period of growth for Owens Insurance Agency.

Chris Crist, together with his brother-in-law and business partner, Shane Lynn, purchased Owens Insurance Agency from Riley Owens a decade ago. Still an integral part of the Greer community, today Owens Insurance serves a clientele that is 70 percent commercial and 30 percent personal. On the commercial side, construction represents the largest industry sector.  

“Don Owens set a high standard as a trusted local business, and we are determined to carry on that legacy. While we have grown in size and strength over the past 10 years, Owens Insurance Agency still believes in quality customer service, giving back to the community and helping our neighbors,” said Chris Crist, co-owner, Owens Insurance Agency.

Looking ahead to their next decade of growth, the entire team at Owens Insurance is committed to maintaining the local hometown feel while expanding both product offering and geographic footprint across the Carolinas.

“We are all very proud of Owens Insurance’s longevity in the community – it’s been a joyful year of celebration,” added Shane Lynn.  “Our common goal is to provide families and businesses the best service in the insurance industry.”

Last year, Owens Insurance Agency acquired Travelers Rest-based Stokes-Farnham Agency, another well-respected insurance agency with deep roots in the Upstate.

To learn more about Owens Insurance Agency, visit www.trustowens.com.