Feb 03, 2025 — Gallagher Bassett, a subsidiary of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE: AJG), has acquired W K Webster & Co Ltd. (WKW), a leading global marine and transit claims management firm. Subsidiaries of WKW — including ITAL, ISA, Seawise, and Pandi Claims — are also included in the transaction.
The acquisition expands Gallagher Bassett's robust claims and risk management solutions, adding marine claims capabilities to the growing list of specialty offerings the company provides globally. WKW, established in 1861, is renowned for its expertise and serves a global clientele from key locations including London, Singapore, New York, and Rotterdam.
Mike Hessling, CEO of Gallagher Bassett North America, stated,
"In North America, we have unparalleled expertise in workers' compensation, general, auto, and specialty liability and risk control solutions. Now, with the addition of W K Webster's marine and transit claims experience, we can partner with our clients even more effectively to help mitigate and overcome the impact of risk. I am excited to work with our team to bring the best of our collective capabilities to all of our clients."
WKW CEO Anthony Smith will report to Manan Sagar, CEO of Gallagher Bassett Europe, Middle East and Asia, with WKW's global workforce connected to all operating regions of Gallagher Bassett. Mr. Sagar stated,
"We are thrilled to integrate W K Webster's deep expertise into Gallagher Bassett's global operations. This acquisition is a significant milestone for all regions of our company, allowing us to offer an unmatched range of claims and risk management solutions. I am excited to partner with Mike on bringing W K Webster's services to clients in North America."
Anthony Smith will continue to lead WKW as CEO following the transaction and commented on WKW and Gallagher Bassett's bright future as partners:
"This acquisition marks a major milestone in the history of W K Webster, and we are eager to leverage our decades of expertise in marine and transit claims to benefit W K Webster and Gallagher Bassett's clients worldwide. Together, we will continue to deliver exceptional service and innovative solutions."
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