OneDigital Expands Kansas City Presence Through Strategic Acquisition
OneDigital, a comprehensive insurance brokerage, financial services, and HR consulting firm, has acquired Watko Benefit Group, an employee benefits firm based in Overland Park, Kansas. This strategic move marks OneDigital’s continued expansion in the Kansas City metro area, following a series of similar acquisitions.
The acquisition of Watko Benefit Group, founded in 2003 by Principal Greg Watkins, brings significant expertise in employee benefits services to OneDigital. Watko provides a range of services including group insurance, voluntary benefits, and executive benefits to businesses of various sizes, from 10 to over 3,000 employees. The six-person Watko team brings more than 50 years of combined experience in healthcare plan design, benefits administration, and executive compensation strategies.
Todd Belden, regional president for OneDigital’s Central region, welcomed the Watko team, stating that their reputation and experience complement OneDigital’s existing business in Kansas and the Central region. The combined capabilities are expected to enhance services and provide greater value to clients. Greg Watkins, principal of Watko Benefit Group, expressed satisfaction with the partnership, highlighting the shared commitment to customer service and client-focused solutions. The acquisition is set to bring additional services to Watko’s clients, including pharmacy consulting, HR consulting, wealth management, retirement plan services, and Medicare guidance.
This acquisition follows OneDigital’s recent purchases of Leslie S. Ray Insurance Agency in the Greater Boston Area and Fortune Insurance in Tacoma, WA, marking their 11th acquisition in the property and casualty space over the past year. The move demonstrates OneDigital’s aggressive growth strategy in the insurance and benefits sector.
