Howden announces acquisition of broker

Howden has expanded its position in the UK health market with the acquisition of Help Me Compare Group (HMCGL) and its subsidiaries.

Health broker HMCGL employs 132 people at its Cardiff Bay head office and manages premiums totalling approximately £60m.

Howden said the acquisition enhances its presence in the consumer insurance sector and “reflects the broader strategy to expand its employee benefits’ capability to meet growing client demand”.

Mike Dalby, managing director of UK consumer life and health at Howden, said: “This acquisition comes at a crucial time.

“Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen a 46% surge in interest from individuals seeking private medical insurance to speed up their access to diagnosis and treatment. By bringing HMCGL into our fold, we are perfectly positioned to meet this growing demand.”

’Ambition’

This acquisition follows that of AGEO Group, a French employee benefits provider that increased Howden’s employee benefits global team to over 2,500 employees in 38 countries.

Glenn Thomas, chief executive and global practice leader at Howden employee benefits, said that “HMCGL are a well-respected group with strong expertise, an outstanding reputation and a great team that we have known for a long time”.

“This acquisition reflects our ambition to grow the UK consumer health insurance market under Mike’s leadership,” he said.

Rob Saunders, chief executive at HMCGL, added: “After 15 years of independence, growth and development, becoming part of Howden is a significant step in our growth journey – both for our people and our clients.

“Howden was the only company we wanted to join and together we will provide enhanced solutions for our clients.”