EMC to Potentially Transition Personal Lines to Safeco

EMC Insurance announced they have entered into an agreement with Safeco to provide EMC-licensed agents an opportunity to transition their EMC personal lines policies to Safeco beginning in the first quarter of 2019.

This agreement is a result of Des Moines-based EMC making a strategic decision to dedicate more time and resources to its commercial, reinsurance and life businesses across 43 states, which accounts for more than 90% of the company’s current premiums. The agreement with Safeco will also allow EMC to provide a smooth transition for personal lines policyholders, and the independent agents in 23 states they currently utilize to sell and service personal lines policies.

“The personal lines marketplace is highly competitive and has evolved significantly since we first entered it back in the 1950s . This is a decision we made with careful, strategic consideration given our long history in the business. We are focused on maximizing profit and growth potential and believe that can best be accomplished by further strengthening and expanding our commercial lines.” – President and CEO of EMC Insurance Companies, Bruce G. Kelley.

Safeco is no stranger to this type of arrangement. The company has developed similar agreements with other insurers (Donegal Mutual, QBE North America).