Columbia Insurance Group to transfer PL business to Safeco

Safeco, a Liberty Mutual company, has entered into a book transfer agreement with Columbia Insurance Group, a Central and Midwest regional carrier. Under the agreement, Columbia will transfer its entire personal lines auto and umbrella lines business in eight states to Safeco, effective for renewals beginning January 1, 2025.

The deal enables both companies to focus on their respective areas of expertise while ensuring seamless service for customers. Safeco will expand its agency footprint and customer base in Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and South Dakota, while Columbia will focus exclusively on commercial solutions going forward.

The transfer will be aided by a majority of Columbia agents currently having Safeco appointments. Those without appointments will be given the opportunity to apply.

“We pride ourselves on empowering the success of agents and the independent agency channel. This agreement is a valuable opportunity to grow business across the region and we welcome Columbia agents and customers to Safeco.” – Luke Bills, President of Independent Agent Distribution, US Retail Markets, Liberty Mutual Insurance.

“The decision to focus exclusively on commercial lines and, therefore, exit personal lines was difficult. In addition to providing our agents with significant notice, we are also pleased to partner with Safeco toward making the transition as smooth as possible. Columbia remains committed to enabling a smooth transition even as we enhance our focus on providing industry leading service for our agents and commercial policyholders.” – Keith Maciejewski, Chief Underwriting Officer, Columbia Insurance Group.