Key Takeaways:
- Hub International Limited (Hub) has acquired the retail insurance brokerage business of Western Growers Insurance Services (WGIS), enhancing its presence in the agribusiness sector.
- The acquisition strengthens Hub’s position in California and Arizona, major agricultural markets in the U.S.
- WGIS clients gain access to a broader array of insurance solutions through Hub’s expanded scale and expertise.
- Key WGIS leadership, including Jeff Gullickson and other senior directors, will join Hub Central & Northern California, driving the Agribusiness practice in the region.
Hub International Strengthens Agribusiness Insurance Services
Hub International Limited, a top global insurance brokerage and financial services firm, has announced its acquisition of the retail insurance brokerage business of Western Growers Insurance Services (WGIS). This move bolsters Hub’s position in the agribusiness sector by expanding its resources and services in California and Arizona—two of the U.S.’s largest agricultural markets. The acquisition is designed to improve WGIS’s long-term growth trajectory through enhanced scale and capabilities.
“We are excited to welcome the WGIS team to Hub,” said Darren Caesar, CEO of Hub Central & Northern California (Hub CNC). “California is one of the largest agricultural markets in the country, and WGIS’ depth of knowledge and experience will bolster our offerings to clients in this key industry.”
Enhanced Client Offerings and Regional Expertise
WGIS, with 10 offices spread across California and Arizona, specializes in risk mitigation and management solutions tailored to the agribusiness and farm sectors. These offerings align seamlessly with Hub’s existing Specialty practices, providing an enriched suite of services in insurance products and employee benefits. Following the acquisition, WGIS clients will have access to Hub’s broad array of insurance solutions, benefiting from expanded regional expertise in agriculture and food.
Dave Puglia, President and CEO of Western Growers, highlighted the synergy between WGIS’s agribusiness focus and Hub’s established position: “Not only does Hub offer expanded scale and capabilities for WGIS, but Hub also has a deep understanding of the agriculture industry. This transaction allows WGIS to focus on its core services while also providing industry-leading services and capabilities to our members and clients, both in employee benefits and commercial lines.”
Key Leadership Transitions and Agribusiness Practice Expansion
As part of the transition, WGIS leaders, including Jeff Gullickson, Jodi Martin, Natalie Berend, and Ken Cooper, will join Hub CNC. Gullickson will head Hub’s Agribusiness practice in the region while retaining his role as President of WGIS. This continuity in leadership is expected to bring stability and reinforce the specialized service model WGIS clients have come to trust.
