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Ryan Specialty Group, LLC
R-T Specialty, LLC, the wholesale brokerage unit of Ryan Specialty Group, LLC, today announced that it has acquired McAuley Woods & Associates. Headquartered in Palm Beach, Florida, McAuley Woods is a boutique wholesale insurance brokerage company that specializes in various product lines, including property, casualty, trade name restoration, mold, professional liability, workers compensation, construction, healthcare, transportation, catastrophe, hurricane, hospitality, and products liability insurance.
Bob McAuley, Loti Woods, co-Presidents and co-Chief Operating Officers, McAuley Woods & Associates, say of the acquisition, "Working closely with our select retail producers to develop unique and responsive insurance solutions to their clients' needs is a long-standing hallmark of our mission. By joining forces with RT Specialty, we will not only expand the network of other retailers who can access our programs, but also enhance the wide array of insurance markets available to them through the entire RT Specialty team. Pat Ryan, Tim Turner and their team offer an amazing track record and wealth of experience that is second to none in the wholesale space. We are extremely excited to be a part of the platform they've built."
"I have long admired McAuley Woods' commitment to its retail distribution network, as well as its flexible approaches in addressing their clients' objectives, both of which are core components of our mission", said Tim Turner, President and CEO of RT Specialty. He added "Its strong presence throughout the Southeastern part of the United States will significantly strengthen our presence in that key region, and we look forward to expanding our combined market relationships in developing new facilities and programs for our retail producers."
The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA)
SIAA Celebrates 15 Years of Growth & Success
Hampton, NH - The Strategic Insurance Agency Alliance (SIAA) hosted its 30th Semi-Annual Business Meeting 2010 on October 6th-8th at the Marriott Long Wharf Hotel in Boston, MA.
On Thursday evening, SIAA held its 15th anniversary celebration reception at the Boston Long Wharf Hotel with over 400 attendees, of which 122 were Senior Staff of major Insurance Companies - including 14 CEOs. The centerpiece was a production illustrating the evolution of SIAA since 1995. Guest speakers were Greg Toczydlowski, President of Personal Insurance for Travelers, Clyde Fitch Senior VP State Auto, and Roger Jean former EVP of Liberty Mutual and CEO Liberty Mutual Regional Agency Market Companies
According to Chairman & CEO Jim Masiello, "This gathering of insurance professionals included some of the largest retail insurance agencies in the country as well as some of the largest insurance company carriers and their executives. It's quite an experience to be part of the partnership we have fostered with this group of insurance professionals."
"Our semi-annual meetings are designed to ensure personal, ongoing, productive interaction between our member agencies and our strategic partner companies, but this event was truly something special."
"Our Core Values have been consistent since our launch in 1995...strong relationships, loyalty and commitment to our Strategic Partners. Our record setting new business premium, projected at over $300MM for 2010 despite the current economic climate, demonstrates that we have created something special here. Our record new member agency appointments of 450 projected for 2010 is further proof that we have converted obstacles to opportunities."
SIAA is a national alliance with billions in combined profitable premium. SIAA utilizes its clout through traditional and alternative market channels for the purpose of providing insurance consumers with competitive choices in addition to providing significant profit and equity appreciation opportunities for SIAA Member Agencies. For more information on SIAA, visit www.siaa.net.
Beacon Hill Associates
Beacon Hill Associates Celebrates its 20th Anniversary
Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. is pleased to announce that September 24, 2010 was its 20th anniversary of being in business. For the past twenty years, Beacon Hill has been a leader in the environmental insurance marketplace, serving as a resource on the latest coverages and environmental insurance news for agents around the country.
The company strives to provide value to agents' accounts by using its experience in environmental insurance to make sound recommendations, obtaining options for agents to present to their clients, and working with reputable carriers who can help to access the best coverage for insureds.
Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. is a wholesale insurance broker and program administrator, specializing in the placement of environmental insurance and other specialty insurance coverages for agents nationwide. Although the company concentrates primarily on environmental business, it also works with agencies on other technically challenging specialty coverages. The organization has two divisions: the wholesale brokerage department, tasked with pursuing appropriate coverage for agents from several top insurance carriers; and the PartnerOne EnvironmentalŽ underwriting division, specializing in assessing risks and offering an array of environmental insurance products.
PartnerOne Environmental
PartnerOne Environmental Aligns with Berkley Environmental
to Launch Small Business Program
PartnerOne Environmental, Beacon Hill Associates' underwriting division, announced on August 25, 2010 that the company has established a partnership with Berkley Environmental, a Divisional of Berkley Specialty Underwriting Managers, servicing small to middle market environmental customers and their agents.
"We are very excited about the opportunity to work with the Berkley Companies in our PartnerOne Environmental Underwriting Division. The combination of 'A+' rated companies and very experienced environmental underwriters make them the perfect partners for us," said Bill Pritchard, President of Beacon Hill Associates, Inc.
The products offered by PartnerOne Environmental and Berkley include: Combined Commercial General Liability, Contractors Pollution Liability and/or E&O; Monoline Contractors Pollution Liability, with and without Mold; Contractors Pollution Liability/E&O; Follow Form Excess; and, Companion Auto and Workers Compensation. Target classes include all environmental contractors, consultants, and service providers. Non-environmental contractors are eligible for Monoline Contractors Pollution Liability.
"PartnerOne Environmental is a great organization with a long track record of success in underwriting and servicing environmental risks. Their experience and commitment to excellence lines up well with our vision at Berkley Environmental," said Kenneth J. Berger, President of Berkley Environmental, a Division of Berkley Specialty Underwriting Managers.
PartnerOne Environmental is Beacon Hill Associates, Inc.'s underwriting division, a fully integrated source for environmental insurance products. This division provides coverage for a variety of small- to middle-market contractors, consultants, and property owners and managers. All products are quoted, bound, and issued in-house, enabling Beacon Hill Associates to provide fast turnaround times and excellent service. PartnerOne Environmental coverages are offered by carriers rated "A" or better. www.b-h-a.com
Berkley Specialty Underwriting Managers is an underwriting management company providing excess and surplus lines general liability coverage to the wholesale market and a complete portfolio of commercial property casualty insurance products to the entertainment, sports and environmental industries. Its environmental division offers an array of coverages for virtually all classes traditionally known to have environmental liability exposures on both an admitted and non-admitted basis. Berkley Specialty Underwriting Managers underwrites on behalf of Nautilus Insurance Company and Great Divide Insurance Company, member companies of W. R. Berkley Corporation, both of which have an A.M. Best Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Excellent) and a Financial Size Category of X (adjusted policyholders' surplus of $500 million to $750 million). www.berkleysum.com/environmental.htm
If you would like more information on environmental insurance products, please contact Beacon Hill Associates, Inc. at 1-800-596-2156 or info@b-h-a.com.
Target Markets
New Program Markets and Capacity for the TMPAA
The Target Markets Program Administrators Association announced today that four additional Program Carriers have joined the group. Admiral Insurance Company, General Star Management Company, State National Companies and Torus Insurance have all gained membership in the TMPAA. Each carrier is expected to participate in the Association's Tenth Annual Summit next month in Scottsdale, AZ.
"It is truly exciting to have achieved an active membership above 315 program agencies and companies during our first decade," states Bill Kronenberg, President of the TMPAA. "Even with the tough economy in recent years, the association continues to grow steadily. The addition of these four markets helps ensure our continued growth, and provides more program business opportunities for our members."
"Access to program carrier decision makers at our annual meetings is a core benefit of TMPAA Membership," states Ray Scotto, TMPAA Executive Director. "The October meeting also includes a 'Carrier Meet and Greet' event. The Meet and Greet allows our program specialists to get a snapshot of the possible partnerships available with all of our 57 carrier members, including these 4 new markets. More detailed discussions can follow. The Meet and Greet process has been compared to 'speed dating' which has proven to be very effective for our members."
The Tenth Annual TMPAA Summit is scheduled for October 18-20 in Scottsdale, AZ. Keynote presentation will be provided by Rudy Giuliani and a state of the industry address by Kevin Kelley from Ironshore Inc.
Program specialists / MGA's interested in learning more about the TMPAA, can visit the Association Website at www.targetmarkets.com or call 877-347-5700.
For additional information, contact Ray Scotto - Executive Director (877) 347 - 5700. E-mail address: ray.scotto@targetmkts.com
MarketScout
Gulf Coast oil spill cleanup delayed due to contractor insurance requirements
DALLAS, TX - Many contractors stand ready to help save the Gulf of Mexico, but rigid insurance requirements are thwarting their efforts. Contractors are required to purchase specific liability, pollution and federally mandated workers' compensation coverages designed for employees working on, around or near waterways. To aid contractors with the requirements, MarketScout has developed OSCAR (Oil Spill Cleanup and Remediation) to provide a comprehensive insurance solution for contractors working to clean the British Petroleum oil spill. Four leading energy insurance companies are participating in OSCAR. MarketScout is the manager and founder of OSCAR.
According to Richard Kerr, MarketScout's Chief Executive Officer, "Many contractors strive to help the BP cleanup; but, federal insurance statutes require complex insurance policies not available from most insurers. Oil spill cleanup contractors must show proof of insurance with policies designed to provide pollution, third party liability and federally mandated workers' compensation coverages. These insurance requirements slow down the process of getting contractors for these jobs. The more quickly oil is cleaned the more quickly the Gulf Coast economy will recover and less likely our beautiful wetlands and beaches will be soiled. Contractors now have a one stop solution for adhering to the federally-mandated insurance provisions."
For access to OSCAR, contractors should contact their licensed insurance agent, or visit www.marketscout.com/oscar.
About MarketScout
MarketScout is a Dallas, Texas-based insurance exchange with specialty expertise in energy, environmental and remediation industries. MarketScout represents dozens of insurance companies specializing in protecting on, and offshore energy and environmental contractors. OSCAR is a division of MarketScout. To learn more about MarketScout, please visit www.marketscout.com.
Media Contact: Vilma Scott, (972) 934-4224, vscott@marketscout.com
Wells Fargo Special Risks
This is a SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT from Wells Fargo Special Risks - THE 2010 HURRICANE SEASON IS HERE!
The Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and lasts until Nov. 30. The most active weeks are typically in late August and early September.
Heightened awareness and preparation are the keys to weathering the windstorm season. For additional information, visit www.hurricanes.gov/prepare.
Floods are the nation's No. 1 natural disaster and conservative estimates show that only one-third of residents living in high risk areas (SFHA) purchase flood insurance. Flood insurance can help a homeowner or business owner recover from nature's fury and help prevent financial ruin so it's a good idea for your insured's to consider such insurance before the storms begin.
The WFSR Flood Team can assist with flood risk analysis and flood insurance placement. To better prepare your clients for the storm season please click on the title to review our Guide to Hurricane and Flood Preparation.
We hope you find the enclosed useful in managing your business and insurance needs.
For inquiries, contact:patrick.small@wellsfargo.com
312.423.2500 Voice / 312.423.2512 Fax
www.wfsrflood.com
News
A Rising Need for Flood Insurance Is in the Forecast
The Institutes
Donna J. Popow, JD, CPCU, AIC
Colorado State University's hurricane forecasters predict an active 2010 hurricane season with 15 named storms, eight hurricanes and four major hurricanes. This prediction is in contrast to an average season of 10 named storms, six hurricanes and three major hurricanes. more >>
I.I.I. Offers Lessons Learned From Hurricanes To Help Coastal Residents Prepare For 2010 Season
Insurance Information Institute
"Those who take the time to prepare for a hurricane stand the best chance of surviving the storm and getting back to their normal lives in a timely manner," stated Ms. Salvatore, who is the I.I.I.'s national consumer spokesperson. more >>
PCI Encourages Homeowners to Consider Flood Insurance
Propert Casualty Insurers of America
As a lead up to the June 1st start of hurricane season, the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) is reminding Louisiana property owners that they can purchase flood insurance from many insurers as a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
National Interstate Insurance Company
National Interstate Named Forbes 100 Most Trustworthy Small-Cap Company
Richfield, OH, April 22, 2010 - National Interstate Corporation today announced that it has been chosen as the most trusted small-cap company on the Forbes 2010 Most Trustworthy Companies list. The Forbes list recognizes companies that consistently demonstrated transparent and conservative accounting practices and solid corporate governance and management.
To create the list, over 8,000 companies traded on the U.S. exchanges were evaluated, receiving an accounting and governance risk score. National Interstate was named the top small-cap company, and was also one of only three companies to receive a maximum score of 100.
"We are extremely pleased to be recognized by Forbes as one of the most trustworthy companies in the country," said Dave Michelson, President and Chief Executive Officer of National Interstate. "Integrity has always been one of our core values, and one we commit to in all aspects of our business. We not only take pride in this ranking, but also believe it is important to our current and prospective customers. This designation confirms the highly ethical business practices we have demonstrated since our company was founded."
To view the April 5, 2010 article, please visit www.forbes.com
About National Interstate
National Interstate Corporation (Nasdaq: NATL), is a specialty property and casualty insurance holding company with a niche orientation and focus on the transportation industry. We differentiate ourselves by offering insurance products and services designed to meet the unique needs of targeted insurance buyers. Our products include insurance for transportation companies, alternative risk transfer, or captive insurance programs for commercial risks, specialty personal lines consisting of insurance products focused primarily on recreational vehicle owners and small commercial vehicle accounts, and transportation and general commercial insurance in Hawaii and Alaska. We offer our insurance products through multiple distribution channels including independent agents and brokers, affiliated agencies and agent Internet initiatives. Our insurance subsidiaries are rated "A" (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company. Founded in 1989, we are headquartered in Richfield, Ohio with operations in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.
National Interstate Insurance Company, 3250 Interstate Drive, Richfield, OH 4428, www.NATL.com, 800-929-1500
National Interstate
National Interstate Reports Another Year of Success in its
Alternative Risk Transfer Programs
Richfield, Ohio - National Interstate Insurance Company, a leader in captive insurance for the transportation industry, reports significant expansion in its Alternative Risk Transfer (ART) component. In 2009, the company added 114 companies to its group captive programs, bringing that total to 384 companies at year end. During the year the company also introduced seven new ART programs including: two for fuel distribution and transport, a specialized liability program for shortline and regional railroads, and four large account rental captive programs for clients with $1 million or more in annual insurance premiums. National Interstate's 27 specialized ART programs represent over $200 million in premium in 2009.
"We are extremely proud of the continued progress we have made in our ART component," said Dave Michelson, President. "Our success in this component proves that many consumers are ready for an innovative long-term insurance solution that offers greater control, as well as a cost-effective method of sharing risk and reward. We have an extensive list of ART prospects, and remain confident that this year will bring us even more opportunities to launch creative new programs."
"Despite the current economic environment and soft insurance market conditions, customer retention rates in our ART programs remain solid at over 95%," said Terry Phillips, Senior Vice President. "Companies that join an alternative risk program typically stay in the program allowing us, and the producer, to gain a long-term customer. We attribute our high customer retention rates to the fact that ART programs foster a partnership philosophy. Members not only have a voice in the financial, loss control, and underwriting decisions of the group, they also have the opportunity to network and interact with other best-in-class operators in their industry."
National Interstate's 27 unique ART programs represent over half of the company's gross written premiums. The company is rated "A" (Excellent) VIII by A.M. Best Company, and has a 20-year history of strong growth and financial stability.
About National Interstate
National Interstate Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of National Interstate Corporation (Nasdaq: NATL), is a specialty property and casualty insurance holding company with a niche orientation and focus on the transportation industry. We differentiate ourselves by offering insurance products and services designed to meet the unique needs of targeted insurance buyers. Our products include insurance for transportation companies, alternative risk transfer, or captive insurance programs for commercial risks, specialty personal lines consisting of insurance products focused primarily on recreational vehicle owners and small commercial vehicle accounts, and transportation and general commercial insurance in Hawaii and Alaska. We offer our insurance products through multiple distribution channels including independent agents and brokers, affiliated agencies and agent Internet initiatives. Our insurance subsidiaries are rated "A" (Excellent) by A.M. Best Company. Founded in 1989, we are headquartered in Richfield, Ohio with operations in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, and St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.
To learn more about National Interstate's ART insurance programs, contact Dan Keenan, at 800-929-1500 x1413, or email dan.keenan@natl.com.
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