Markel Ventures

Markel Ventures, a subsidiary of Markel Corporation, is a private equity arm that invests in mature companies across various sectors, excluding the specialty insurance sector. It focuses on buyouts, industry consolidation, growth capital, and acquisitions, with a global investment scope. Markel Ventures typically invests in companies with EBITDA ranging from $25 million to $100 million, and enterprise values between $100 million and $1 billion. The firm prefers majority control, aiming for at least an 80% stake in its portfolio companies. It uses permanent capital for financing, minimizing debt, and seeks long-term investments with no planned exit. Markel Ventures was established in 2005 and is headquartered in Glen Allen, Virginia.

33 past transactions

The Meco Group

Acquisition in 2025
The Meco Group specializes in marine insurance products and maritime consultancy services, catering to the global shipping and logistics sector. The company focuses on delivering financial security through a range of offerings, including transmarine insurance, charterers protection, strikes insurance, and marine trade disruption insurance. In addition to insurance coverage, The Meco Group provides underwriting, claims handling, loss prevention, and trading certificates, assisting clients in effectively resolving disputes related to maritime trade and transport.

Certa Insurance Partners

Corporate Round in 2023
Certa Insurance Partners, based in London, is an underwriting agency that specializes in providing tax insurance solutions.

Hagerty

Post in 2023
Hagerty is a family-owned insurance agency that specializes in providing insurance services for classic cars and trucks, as well as boats. With a focus on niche markets, Hagerty is dedicated to offering tailored insurance solutions that meet the unique needs of classic vehicle enthusiasts. The company emphasizes continuous improvement and strives to deliver exceptional customer service, reflecting its deep passion for automotive culture and heritage. Through its specialized offerings, Hagerty aims to support clients in protecting their valuable assets while fostering a community of classic car and boat lovers.

Cowbell

Series B in 2022
Cowbell Cyber, Inc. is an innovative provider of cyber insurance specifically designed for small and mid-sized businesses (SMEs). Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Pleasanton, California, with additional offices in Omaha, Nebraska; Atlanta, Georgia; and Plano, Texas, Cowbell delivers standalone cyber coverage that addresses the distinct needs of each organization. Utilizing an artificial intelligence-powered platform, the company quantifies insurable risk and enables continuous risk assessment and underwriting. Cowbell's approach includes a closed-loop risk management solution encompassing risk prevention, mitigation, and incident preparedness services. By leveraging both inside-out and outside-in data alongside advanced machine-learning models, Cowbell's offerings continuously evolve to adapt to current and emerging cyber threats, allowing businesses across various industries, such as healthcare, technology, construction, finance, retail, and agriculture, to manage their risk exposure effectively.

Metromont

Acquisition in 2021
Metromont is a leading precast concrete manufacturer located in Greenville, South Carolina, serving the southeastern and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States. The company specializes in producing precast concrete materials essential for the construction of various structures, including data centers, warehouses, multi-family residential buildings, and parking decks. In addition to manufacturing, Metromont offers a comprehensive range of services, including design and engineering, hauling, erection, and field services, which support general contractors and construction companies in meeting their construction requirements.

Cowbell

Series A in 2021
Cowbell Cyber, Inc. is an innovative provider of cyber insurance specifically designed for small and mid-sized businesses (SMEs). Founded in 2019 and headquartered in Pleasanton, California, with additional offices in Omaha, Nebraska; Atlanta, Georgia; and Plano, Texas, Cowbell delivers standalone cyber coverage that addresses the distinct needs of each organization. Utilizing an artificial intelligence-powered platform, the company quantifies insurable risk and enables continuous risk assessment and underwriting. Cowbell's approach includes a closed-loop risk management solution encompassing risk prevention, mitigation, and incident preparedness services. By leveraging both inside-out and outside-in data alongside advanced machine-learning models, Cowbell's offerings continuously evolve to adapt to current and emerging cyber threats, allowing businesses across various industries, such as healthcare, technology, construction, finance, retail, and agriculture, to manage their risk exposure effectively.

Nephila Capital

Acquisition in 2018
Nephila Capital Limited, founded in 1997 and based in Hamilton, Bermuda, is an investment manager that specializes in reinsurance risk. The company focuses on managing a variety of investment products, including insurance-linked securities, catastrophe bonds, insurance swaps, and weather derivatives. Nephila sources, analyzes, prices, underwrites, executes, and values reinsurance risk, catering to institutional investors seeking tailored investment opportunities. With a strong emphasis on climate risk management and catastrophe reinsurance, the firm employs proprietary systems and analytical platforms, leveraging its expertise to provide comprehensive investment and reinsurance risk management services.

Costa Farms

Acquisition in 2017
Costa Farms is a third-generation, family-owned business established in 1961 by Jose Costa. The company specializes in the production of ornamental plants, including tropical landscape plants, perennial plants, and container gardens, which are designed to enhance home and garden aesthetics. With operations spanning over 4,000 acres globally, Costa Farms employs nearly 5,000 individuals. The company is dedicated to helping customers cultivate a variety of flowering plants, enabling them to beautify their living spaces.

State National Companies

Acquisition in 2017
State National Companies operates as a subsidiary of Markel Corporation and specializes in property and casualty insurance within two distinct niche markets in the United States. The company offers collateral protection insurance, which covers personal automobiles and other vehicles used as collateral for loans provided by credit unions, banks, and specialty finance companies. Additionally, through its Program Services segment, State National leverages its strong financial rating and extensive licensing to facilitate access to the U.S. property and casualty insurance market, generating revenue through ceding fees. This dual focus allows the company to meet the specific insurance needs of its clients while capitalizing on market opportunities.

Next Insurance

Series A in 2017
Next Insurance Inc. is an online insurance agency that specializes in providing various insurance products and services tailored for small businesses. Founded in 2015 and based in Palo Alto, California, the company offers business, general liability, professional liability, commercial auto, and workers’ compensation insurance. By leveraging technology, Next Insurance eliminates the need for agents and reduces costs, enabling it to offer competitive pricing. The company's services cater to a diverse range of sectors, including construction, fitness, cleaning, beauty, therapy, entertainment, and education. Additionally, Next Insurance prioritizes timely claims processing, often investigating claims within 48 hours to ensure transparency and efficiency for its clients.

Allsport Insurance Marketing

Acquisition in 2017
Allsport Insurance Marketing Ltd is a managing general agent based in Burnaby, Canada, specializing in insurance solutions for sports, leisure, and recreation activities. Founded in 1987, the company offers a range of insurance products, including sport liability, sport accident, travel medical, and coverage for special events and user groups. Additionally, Allsport provides risk management services, such as loss control programs and waivers, aimed at enhancing safety and minimizing risks for sports associations and community celebrations. As a subsidiary of Markel Canada Limited, Allsport Insurance Marketing Ltd demonstrates a strong commitment to serving its clients in the Canadian market.

SureTec Financial

Acquisition in 2017
SureTec Financial is one of the largest privately owned surety companies in the United States, headquartered in Houston, Texas. The company specializes in providing casualty insurance, underwriting contract bonds, and commercial surety services. Its primary subsidiary, SureTec Insurance Company, holds an A (Excellent) rating from A.M. Best, reflecting its strong financial stability. SureTec collaborates with professional surety producers and independent agents to deliver a range of commercial bonds, including license and permit bonds, judicial and court bonds, and state professional license bonds. With a presence in all 50 states and additional offices in cities such as Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, San Diego, and Orange County, California, SureTec is well-equipped to support clients in conducting their business securely.

CapTech

Acquisition in 2015
CapTech Ventures, Inc. is an information technology management consulting firm based in Richmond, Virginia, founded in 1997. The company specializes in technology, customer experience, data and analytics, and transformation services. It serves a diverse range of sectors including banking and financial services, energy and utilities, retail and consumer goods, healthcare and life sciences, travel and hospitality, and government. CapTech has experienced significant growth since its inception, expanding from initial revenues of $380,000 to millions over the years, all while remaining privately held. The firm operates multiple offices across the United States, including locations in Atlanta, Baltimore, Charlotte, Chicago, Columbus, Denver, Orlando, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. CapTech's success is attributed to its strong partnerships with clients and a commitment to delivering exceptional service.

Vanderpol

Acquisition in 2014
Vanderpol Baking Systems is a Dutch company that specializes in the design and manufacture of high-quality baking equipment, particularly for waffle production. The company aims to establish itself as a globally recognized and flexible organization, offering advanced waffle production lines at competitive prices. With a focus on achieving the perfect waffle, Vanderpol combines expertly engineered waffle ovens with advanced food technology. The company leverages its extensive knowledge and experience, rooted in the traditional waffle-making heritage of the Netherlands and Belgium, to ensure that its clients' production processes run smoothly from start to finish. Vanderpol is committed to going the extra mile to meet the needs of bakers around the world.

Den Boer Baking Systems

Acquisition in 2014
Den Boer Baking Systems is a designer and manufacturer of high-quality baking equipment, specializing in tunnel ovens and other baking solutions such as waffle and handling equipment. With a legacy of over 100 years in oven-building, the company aims to be recognized globally for its professionalism and flexibility. Den Boer Baking Systems offers a wide range of heating options tailored to the needs of bakers, while also emphasizing exceptional service as a key aspect of its value proposition. The company is available 24/7 to provide practical advice, training, and on-site support, ensuring that clients receive comprehensive assistance in their baking operations.

Cottrell

Acquisition in 2014
Cottrell, Inc. is a manufacturer specializing in over-the-road automobile transport and car hauler equipment, established in 1975 and headquartered in Gainesville, Georgia. The company designs and produces a range of products including high sideframe trailers, low sideframe trailers, hi mount trailers, enclosed transporters, and various aftermarket parts and accessories. Cottrell's offerings cater to both domestic and international markets, with exports to countries such as Mexico, Canada, and Australia. The company operates through a network of dealers across several states in the U.S. and has service centers in both the United States and Canada, ensuring comprehensive support for its clients. Cottrell is recognized for its commitment to high-quality products and exceptional customer service, which have contributed to its long-standing presence in the industry.

Abbey Protection

Acquisition in 2014
Abbey Protection Plc is a provider of legal and tax professional services and insurance, primarily catering to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the UK. The company specializes in supplying and underwriting insurance products that protect clients from legal expenses and other professional fees arising from legal actions and investigations by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Abbey Protection aims to support businesses by mitigating the financial risks associated with legal challenges, ensuring that clients can navigate complex legal environments with greater confidence.

Eagle Construction

Acquisition in 2013
Eagle Construction is a homebuilder in central Virginia.

Alterra Capital Holdings

Acquisition in 2012
Alterra Capital Holdings is a Bermuda-based company specializing in providing reinsurance across various sectors, including life, annuity, disability, and property and casualty insurance markets. The firm distinguishes itself by offering structured reinsurance products and targeting superior risk-adjusted returns through a diversified investment portfolio. Alterra Capital manages its reinsurance liability exposure by integrating underwriting and investment strategies, which aids in assessing overall risk and optimizing investment allocations. This integrated approach is designed to achieve a higher return on equity compared to competitors within the industry. Additionally, the company provides a wide range of insurance products, including aviation, excess liability, professional liability, and workers' compensation, further enhancing its portfolio in the insurance and reinsurance landscape.

Reading Bakery Systems

Acquisition in 2012
Reading Bakery Systems, Inc. is a prominent manufacturer of industrial systems tailored for the production of a wide variety of bakery products, including biscuits, crackers, pretzels, and snack foods. Established in 1947 and headquartered in Robesonia, Pennsylvania, the company provides an extensive range of equipment encompassing mixing, dough handling, forming, baking, and drying technologies. Their offerings include high production processing lines under the Thomas L. Green brand, continuous mixing solutions through Exact Mixing, and advanced measurement systems like the SCORPION® 2 Data Logging Measurement System. Reading Bakery Systems also supports its clients with parts, upgrades, and used equipment while actively engaging in research and development at its Science & Innovation Center. The company serves a global clientele in the baked snacks, sweet goods, and pet treat industries, among others, and has manufacturing facilities in both Robesonia and Indianapolis, Indiana.

Havco

Acquisition in 2012
Havco Wood Products LLC is a manufacturer specializing in oak hardwood and composite wood flooring tailored for the truck trailer and intermodal container industries. Established in 1978, the company is headquartered in Scott City, Missouri, with additional facilities in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and Vonore, Tennessee. Havco offers a range of products, including laminated oak floors and fusion floors, as well as water-based treatments that enhance durability and resistance to decay. The company focuses on providing sustainable and high-quality flooring solutions that meet the needs of its clients while maintaining competitive pricing.

Thompson Insurance Enterprises

Acquisition in 2011
Thompson Insurance Enterprises is a privately held program administrator that specializes in underwriting multi-line, industry-focused insurance programs. The company operates in the United States and offers a range of loss control services, including professional liability assessments, liability exposure assessments, fire protection surveys, and emergency evacuation evaluations. Additionally, it conducts accident investigation evaluations, fleet safety assessments, and property loss assessments. Thompson Insurance Enterprises is also involved in providing financing services to support its comprehensive insurance offerings, ensuring that clients receive tailored solutions to manage their specific risks effectively.

Weldship

Acquisition in 2011
Weldship is a manufacturer and supplier of storage and transportation equipment, primarily serving the industrial and specialty gas industries. The company specializes in producing high-pressure tube trailers, tankers, and ISO-certified containers, along with industrial gas ground storage tubes. Weldship's products are designed to ensure the careful handling and delivery of industrial gases and chemicals, catering to the specific needs of its clients in the sector. By focusing on quality and compliance with international standards, Weldship plays a crucial role in the logistics and supply chain of gases and chemicals.

PartnerMD

Acquisition in 2011
PartnerMD, LLC is a concierge medical practice based in Richmond, Virginia, with additional offices in McLean and Midlothian. Founded in 2002, the company specializes in providing primary care and executive health services to individual and corporate clients. PartnerMD offers a membership model that ensures a lower doctor-patient ratio, fostering stronger relationships and allowing for more personalized care. The services include executive physicals, corporate wellness programs, personal health goals monitoring, direct communication with physicians, and access to in-office nutritionists and exercise physiologists. By prioritizing patient engagement and tailored health management, PartnerMD aims to support clients in achieving their health-related goals under professional medical supervision.

Solbern

Acquisition in 2010
Solbern, LLC is a manufacturer and supplier of industrial food processing equipment, serving the food industry for over 50 years. Based in Fairfield, New Jersey, the company specializes in a diverse range of products, including liquid fillers, solid fillers, briners, and dough folders, as well as equipment tailored for the pickle industry such as pickle packers and spear cutters. Solbern's filling equipment is designed for various container sizes, from retail packages to larger cans, ensuring accuracy and durability in operations. Notably, the company has developed equipment capable of filling non-carbonated liquids into aluminum cans at speeds reaching 1,400 cans per minute. Additionally, Solbern has expanded its offerings to include automated solutions for preparing wrapped food products like burritos and egg rolls. With a commitment to innovation, the company continuously seeks to develop new applications and products, providing clients with equipment that enhances product quality and operational efficiency in the competitive food processing sector. Solbern markets its products through a dedicated sales team in the United States and a network of international sales agents.

Markel|Eagle Partners

Acquisition in 2010
Markel|Eagle Partners LLC is a prominent real estate asset manager based in Henrico, Virginia, specializing in distressed investments across various asset classes, including land, residential, office, retail, and industrial properties. With a collective 130 years of experience, the firm adopts a proactive investment approach that emphasizes capital application, operational expertise, and risk mitigation rather than the traditional "buy low, hold and hope" strategy. Markel|Eagle Partners focuses on enhancing existing developments and properties to create long-term value, leveraging its commitment to professional execution and strategic planning. The firm's initial fund is actively involved in real estate ventures within the Mid-Atlantic region, including significant projects like West Broad Village, a large-scale commercial and residential community.

Ellicott Dredges

Acquisition in 2009
Ellicott Dredges, LLC is a prominent designer and manufacturer of portable dredging equipment, catering to a diverse clientele that includes governments, contractors, miners, and marine operators. The company specializes in cutter suction dredges, which are utilized for various applications such as environmental remediation, sand and gravel mining, dredging of ports and harbors, and coastal restoration projects. By focusing on the effective removal of solid materials from underwater environments, Ellicott Dredges ensures that its equipment meets the specific needs of its customers across different sectors. The company's commitment to quality and innovation positions it as a leader in the dredging industry.

Panel Specialists

Acquisition in 2009
Panel Specialists, Inc. is a manufacturer based in Temple, Texas, specializing in a diverse range of interior building products. The company designs and produces various wall panel systems, including high pressure laminates, wood veneers, metal laminates, and custom laminates, catering to markets such as education, healthcare, and marine industries. Their offerings include marine panels for decorators and architects, medical casework and decorative wall coverings for hospitals, and residential life furniture for colleges and universities. In addition to their core products, Panel Specialists provides contract manufacturing services, encompassing processes such as lamination, cutting, edge profiling, drilling, assembly, and packaging. The company's extensive 340,000 square foot facility supports its commitment to delivering customized solutions that meet the unique needs of its clients in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces.

ParkLand Ventures

Acquisition in 2008
ParkLand Ventures, Inc. is a company that specializes in acquiring and operating manufactured housing communities across the United States. Founded in 2008 and headquartered in Glen Allen, Virginia, it manages properties in several states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Michigan, New York, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. The company not only operates these communities but also markets and finances homes for its residents. ParkLand Ventures is dedicated to providing exceptional housing values through attractive manufactured homes at various price points, while actively investing in the improvement of its communities. The company aims to create environments where residents recognize the compelling value of choosing a ParkLand community.

AMF Bakery Systems

Acquisition in 2005
AMF Bakery Systems Inc. is a leading manufacturer of automated bakery equipment, providing comprehensive solutions for the baking industry. The company specializes in a wide range of products, including dough systems, make-up systems, proofing and baking systems, cooling systems, and packaging solutions. Its offerings encompass dough distribution, fermentation rooms, mixers, dividers, proofers, ovens, and various handling systems for both products and pans. Additionally, AMF Bakery Systems provides automation products for loading and palletizing, as well as project management services to support bakery operations. Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, the company has established a global presence with facilities and offices across North America, Central and South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia/New Zealand. AMF Bakery Systems is recognized for its innovative technologies and commitment to quality, making it a trusted partner for bakeries worldwide.

Terra Nova Holdings

Acquisition in 1999
Terra Nova Holdings Ltd provides insurance underwriting services for specialty property, casualty, marine, and aviation insurance.
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