Bron: amweb.nl
The Optio Group Acquires Intermediary Company Den Hartigh
The Optio Group has acquired intermediary company Den Hartigh, as part of the British underwriting agency’s ambitious European growth strategy. While the transaction was initially announced earlier this year, it has now received approval from regulatory authorities.
Family-owned Den Hartigh achieved a turnover of €3.1 million in 2022, earning a spot in the top 100 intermediary companies. Jan den Hartigh will continue to lead the operations in the Netherlands and Belgium.
He initiated the transaction, explaining: « I was looking for a partner that aligned with our plans to add more links to the chain. We aim to grow through acquisitions in the Benelux. »
With Optio entering the Dutch market, it introduces a new player specializing in niche insurance, much like Den Hartigh. « We focus on transport, garage insurance, and lease insurance. Linked to this, we also insure high-net-worth individuals, » Jan den Hartigh added.
Optio Pursues European Expansion
Founded in 2019, the British Optio Group emphasizes leveraging technological tools to underwrite primarily business risks. This year, after previous acquisitions in the UK, the group has intensified its acquisition efforts. In addition to Den Hartigh, Optio also acquired the Luxembourg-based Circles Group, which specializes in insuring film productions and events.
Moreover, Optio has taken a stake in Italian Lloyd’s coverholder Heca, focusing on professional liability insurance. To support its European expansion, the group has strengthened its top management, including the appointment of Marc van der Veer as Managing Director Europe. Van der Veer previously served as Managing Director at Hiscox Europe and CEO of international delegated authority activities at Ardonagh.
Further Acquisitions on the Horizon. It is likely that we will see more acquisition announcements from Den Hartigh in the near future. « That is, if there’s still anything left on the market, » Jan den Hartigh joked.
The focus will not only be on underwriting agencies but also on other intermediary firms and teams specializing in business insurance. « It could also work the other way around: if a company aligns well with the activities of the Circles Group, they would be the first candidate, » he added.