Global insurance broker Howden is advancing its M&A strategy for long-term growth with the acquisition of Barnett Waddingham, creating one of the UK’s largest pensions and employee benefits consultancies.
Following the acquisition, the combined business will provide employee benefits and pensions advisory services to an extended client base, ranging from multinational corporations to SMEs across the private and public sectors, while also offering health, life, and specialist pension products to individuals.
David Howden, CEO of Howden, said: “In our journey to build a global broker we recognise the need to create a world-class employee benefits business for our clients. As we always do, we have waited for the right partner to expand our capabilities, with experts who are entrepreneurial and culturally aligned, and with whom we can do more together. Barnett Waddingham’s people have this in abundance.”
The move is part of Howden’s ongoing M&A strategy, which David described as a core element of its “long-term, sustainable strategy.”
Kate Pennell, CMO of Howden, told Financial Promoter that last year’s rollout of a new visual identity—along with clear communication of the firm’s values and purpose—was designed to help acquired businesses integrate into the Howden group more smoothly and efficiently.
Beyond easing cultural transitions post-acquisition, this approach also supports acquired firms in leveraging their new status to strengthen client relationships.