Westfield Specialty Expands into Company Market with Luxembourg Subsidiary
In a significant move aimed at broadening its operational footprint, Westfield Specialty International has announced its plans to transition from being solely a Lloyd's vehicle into the wider company market. This strategic shift is set to unfold in the coming months and is contingent upon receiving the necessary regulatory approvals.
The brand's ambition includes the establishment of a new subsidiary in Luxembourg, which is expected to commence underwriting operations from April. Westfield Specialty’s commitment to sustainable growth is evident as Jack Kuhn, President, expresses the intent to leverage this new platform to underwrite risks on company paper, thereby enhancing its existing capabilities within Syndicate 1200 at Lloyd's.
The Luxembourg operation will be guided by a newly appointed CEO whose selection is anticipated in the near future. This expansion is part of Westfield Specialty's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the European markets, which Kuhn refers to as a critical element in the company's long-term vision. As a mutual-owned specialty insurer, Westfield is well-positioned to adopt a multi-year approach to growth, paving the way for significant investment in its specialty underwriting capacity.
Furthermore, the company's parent organization, Ohio Farmers Insurance Company, bolsters Westfield Specialty's offerings with solid financial backing. The company boasts an 'A-' financial strength and long-term issuer credit rating from SP and an 'A' financial strength rating from AM Best.
Westfield Specialty has quickly carved out a niche for itself since its inception in 2021, and it is poised to reach annual gross written premium (GWP) of approximately $2 billion globally by 2025. The firm underwrites diverse insurance products across the U.S., U.K., and Dubai, consistently aiming to broaden its scope with new lines of specialty insurance.
Founded in 1848, the parent company, Westfield, stands as a pillar in the property and casualty insurance landscape. With more than $4 billion in revenues and assets exceeding $11 billion, Westfield delivers a robust array of coverage options through a network of independent agents and brokers. The integration of expertise from both Westfield and the Lloyd's Syndicate 1200 positions Westfield Specialty to provide innovative risk management solutions while reinforcing its commitment to customer growth and protection.
As Westfield Specialty sets the stage to embrace its new operations, the implications for its clients and the broader insurance landscape are significant. The introduction of a Luxembourg subsidiary is not just a reaffirmation of Westfield’s commitment to innovation and adaptability—it represents a forward-thinking approach to meet evolving market demands and foster resilience within the insurance sector. By continuously building its capacity and expanding its market reach, Westfield Specialty aims to provide unparalleled support in navigating risks and enhancing clients' prospects for success in an increasingly complex environment.