Columbia Insurance will transfer personal auto cards, umbrellas to Safeco

Safeco Insurance, a Liberty Mutual insurance company based in Boston, said it has entered into a book transfer agreement with Columbia Insurance Group, a regional carrier in the Central and Midwest.

Under the agreement, Columbia Mutual will transfer its entire personal auto and umbrella lines business in eight states to Safeco, effective for renewals beginning Jan. 1, 2025. Safeco will expand its agency footprint and customer base in Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa , Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and South Dakota.

Personal auto accounted for about 11% of Columbia Insurance Group’s direct premiums written in 2023, according to AM Best, which gave the insurer a financial strength rating of A- (Excellent).

Safeco said most Columbia agents currently have appointments with Safeco, and those who don’t will have the opportunity to apply.

“This agreement is a valuable opportunity to grow business throughout the region and we welcome Columbia agents and customers to Safeco,” said Luke Bills, president of independent agent distribution, US Retail Markets, Liberty Mutual Insurance.

Columbia’s Keith Maciejewski, director of underwriting, said it was a difficult decision to leave the personal lines. He said the Columbia, Missouri-based carrier, founded in 1889, will focus exclusively on commercial solutions going forward. According to its website, Columbia serves industries such as auto repair shops, contractors, restaurants, professional services, retailers and warehouses.

“Columbia remains committed to enabling a seamless transition even as we intensify our focus on providing industry-leading service to our agents and commercial policyholders,” said Maciejewski.

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