The acquisitions are integral to Howden’s ongoing strategy that focuses on investment in expertise and partnerships with culturally aligned firms to broaden its geographical footprint, ultimately benefiting its clients.
In Luxembourg, Howden Belgium has entered a crucial market in Europe by acquiring a portfolio of business from Financial Lines specialist United. This move marks the initiation of a substantial growth journey, including the establishment of a branch in Luxembourg City. Collaborating with Jacques Emsix, the branch representative and former owner of the portfolio, Howden aims to develop a robust retail business in the country.
Simultaneously, the acquisition of WDR, specializing in Property & Casualty (P&C) as well as Employee Benefits, expands Howden’s reach in Belgium. WDR serves corporates, public sector entities, and SME clients, with offices spanning Drogenbos, Aalst, and Antwerp. This acquisition enhances Howden’s presence in the broader Brussels area, complementing existing offices in Zaventem and Uccle. Additionally, it facilitates the growth of Howden’s business in the Antwerp region, including the strategic Port of Antwerp, where the company already serves a diverse range of clients.
Both acquisitions align seamlessly with Howden’s growth strategy in Europe, reinforcing local expertise and establishing strong footholds in new markets. The company emphasizes that these developments represent a significant milestone for Howden Belgium, which obtained its broking license to operate in the country in June 2020. The expansion into Luxembourg and the strengthened position in Belgium underscore Howden’s commitment to providing comprehensive insurance solutions across diverse European markets.
Herman Kerremans, CEO, Howden Belgium, said: “These two acquisitions reinforce our commitment to Belgium and the wider region, and reflect our strategy to invest in talent and to deepen our expertise for the benefit of our clients. With strong strategic and cultural alignment, WDR and United are the ideal partners for Howden as we cement our position as the natural home for independent insurance brokers looking to give clients access to the expertise and specialisms of an international network within their local market.”
Marie-Anne Van Kerckhoven, Arnaut Ingels and Walter Huybrechts, Managing Directors, WDR Insurance Group, commented: “Even though WDR is already a well-known broker in our selected markets, we’ve been on the lookout for a partner with international reach for years. Howden is the perfect fit for our expanding business – sufficiently large to offer advanced solutions in a complex global market yet still wholly dedicated to delivering the very best service for our clients. Joining Howden feels like finding a permanent home and we are excited to be part of a business that values people and independence. Our well-established, trusted team remains committed to delivering the professional service and support our clients have come to expect.”
Jacques Emsix, Former Portfolio Owner, United Brokers Luxembourg, added: “Over the past two decades, we’ve established a robust business portfolio in Luxembourg, and joining forces with Howden is the perfect opportunity to further grow our presence in the market. Our alignment with their entrepreneurial spirit and client-centric approach is a key factor, and we’re eager to leverage Howden’s extensive network to enhance our ability to meet our clients’ needs more effectively.”
Author: Joanna England
