Avid Insurance has partnered with Starr, a global insurance and investment group, to enhance its liability offerings in three specialized sectors: groundworks, motorsport, and leisure. The agreement expands Avid’s capacity within its commercial liability portfolio, targeting brokers who serve clients in complex industries.
Key Details of the Partnership
The partnership allows Starr to provide underwriting capacity for employers’ liability (EL) and public liability (PL) coverage across the three target areas. Avid, operating from offices in London, Leeds, and Hornchurch, specializes in commercial lines insurance. Their product portfolio includes established offerings in motorsport and leisure, aligning with the sectors covered in the new agreement.
Sector-Specific Coverage
The groundworks sector will be led by Dean Surridge, director of construction underwriting at Avid subsidiary IIGL, covering contractors in services such as drainage and civil engineering. Motorsport and leisure products will be overseen by Mike Patchett, Avid’s head of specialty. The motorsport coverage supports organizations involved in club, team, event, and venue operations for both two- and four-wheeled formats.
Industry Reaction and Future Prospects
John Inwood, underwriting director at Avid, stated that the firm has had a strong start to the year and that the new agreement adds depth to its specialist offering. “Each of these three sectors requires dedicated expertise, and we’re proud to be offering brokers targeted products and specialist underwriting,” Inwood said. Carl Jago, head of casualty at Starr Underwriting Agents, expressed confidence in Avid’s underwriting expertise and track record.
The partnership reflects Avid’s strategy to grow its presence in niche liability markets. Avid has expanded its specialist capacity since acquiring Incorporated Insurance Group Limited (IIGL) in 2021, enhancing its ability to underwrite construction liability risks. The company currently writes over £40 million in gross written premium across personal and commercial lines.
