Markel Ventures, Inc. is the private equity division of Markel Corporation, focused on acquiring and managing a diverse range of companies outside the insurance sector. Established in 2005 and headquartered in Glen Allen, Virginia, Markel Ventures specializes in mature buyouts, industry consolidation, and growth capital investments on a global scale. The firm typically targets companies with EBITDA ranging from $25 million to $100 million, and seeks to acquire majority stakes, generally aiming for an 80 percent ownership. Markel Ventures employs a long-term investment strategy, utilizing permanent capital without debt financing, which provides its portfolio companies with operational flexibility. The firm manages a family of independent businesses across various sectors, including manufacturing, consumer products, business services, financial services, and healthcare, with the overarching goal to 'buy, build, and hold' its investments, without plans for future exits.
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 is an underwriting agency that provides 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 a provider of cyber insurance tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Founded in 2019 and based in Pleasanton, California, with additional offices in Omaha, Atlanta, and Plano, the company offers a platform that leverages artificial intelligence for continuous risk assessment and underwriting. Cowbell delivers standalone cyber coverage that adapts to the evolving threats facing businesses today. Its services include a comprehensive risk management approach that encompasses risk prevention, mitigation, incident preparedness, and response. By utilizing advanced machine-learning models and both inside-out and outside-in data, Cowbell helps organizations understand their insurable risks, gain insights into risk exposure, and enhance their overall insurability. The company serves various industries, including healthcare, technology, construction, finance, retail, and agriculture.
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 a provider of cyber insurance tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Founded in 2019 and based in Pleasanton, California, with additional offices in Omaha, Atlanta, and Plano, the company offers a platform that leverages artificial intelligence for continuous risk assessment and underwriting. Cowbell delivers standalone cyber coverage that adapts to the evolving threats facing businesses today. Its services include a comprehensive risk management approach that encompasses risk prevention, mitigation, incident preparedness, and response. By utilizing advanced machine-learning models and both inside-out and outside-in data, Cowbell helps organizations understand their insurable risks, gain insights into risk exposure, and enhance their overall insurability. The company serves various industries, including healthcare, technology, construction, finance, retail, and agriculture.
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 operates as a producer of ornamental plants. Founded in 1961 by Jose Costa, Costa Farms is a third-generation, family-owned business that stretches over 4,000 acres globally and employs nearly 5,000 people.
State National Companies
Acquisition in 2017
State National Companies specialty provider of property and casualty insurance operating in two niche markets across the United States. In its Lender Services segment, the company specializes in providing collateral protection insurance, which insures personal automobiles and other vehicles held as collateral for loans made by credit unions, banks and specialty finance companies. In its Program Services segment, the Company leverages its “A” (Excellent) A.M. Best rating, expansive licenses and reputation to provide access to the U.S. property and casualty insurance market in exchange for ceding fees.
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 was formed as the result of a friendship between the company's founders, Sandy Williamson and Slaughter Fitz-Hugh, that began while both were employed at Andersen Consulting in Washington, D.C. Eventually, each would leave the company to pursue other opportunities, but they stayed in touch. In March of 1997, the two found themselves back in their shared hometown—Richmond, Virginia—and this close proximity led to the creation of CapTech Ventures, Inc., an exceptional business partnership. The company has been successful from the very beginning, growing from $380,000 in revenue the first year to millions today. Always a privately held company, CapTech has thrived without the support of outside investors funding. Through partnership with clients and by providing exceptional service, CapTech has continued to grow and build on its successes. Now a full service information technology consultancy and the largest private IT-focused company headquartered in the region, CapTech performs services for a diverse and growing client base.
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 is a provider of laminated oak and composite wood flooring to the truck trailer and intermodal container industry.
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 is the world's leading manufacturer of high speed bakery equipment. They provide complete automated bakery solutions including dough mixing, dividing, make-up, proofing, baking, cooling, packaging, basket/case loading, and product distribution. Customers around the world rely on their expertise in the high speed bread, bun and soft roll baking market. They have diligently worked to produce solutions that represent industry leading quality, innovation and value. Headquartered in Richmond, Virginia, USA, AMF has developed a worldwide presence with offices and manufacturing facilities in the USA, Canada, Central/South America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Australia/New Zealand. Through this global infrastructure of equipment supply, engineering expertise, and parts and service support, they develop and maintain automated bakery plants at a level that is unmatched in their market. They believe that success comes from an expert understanding of the complete bread, bun and soft roll baking process. Their commitment to complete solution excellence, backed by innovative technologies, is what makes us unique. It is what makes us AMF.
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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