GA Consolidation Heats Up: What Amwins’ Acquisition of Nelligan Means for Ancillary Benefits

The Big Picture

The group benefits space is shifting, and the latest move from Amwins signals something bigger: General Agencies (GAs) are consolidating.

With Amwins acquiring Nelligan—two major players in the GA space—this deal isn’t just about expansion. It’s about GAs doubling down on ancillary benefits and positioning themselves for future growth.

Benefeature’s data reveals an interesting backdrop to this acquisition:

• Amwins’ group benefits growth has plateaued over the past year, while

• Nelligan has been gaining momentum, expanding its market share and deepening carrier relationships.

This acquisition suggests that large GAs may be looking to acquire growth rather than building it organically, and Benefeature is uniquely positioned to track these shifts.

Why This Move Matters

With $850M in in-force premium, 400+ broker relationships, and 80+ carrier partnerships, Nelligan’s deep ancillary expertise makes this acquisition more than just a business transaction—it’s a glimpse into where the market is headed.

Here’s what we see happening:

• The GA Market is Consolidating – Large general agencies are acquiring specialized firms to expand their offerings, creating a more competitive landscape.

• Ancillary Benefits Are Becoming a Core Focus – GAs aren’t just distributing benefits—they’re shaping how employers structure total compensation.

• Brokers and Carriers Must Adapt – As GAs strengthen their capabilities, those who understand how to package and position these evolving solutions will have a serious edge.

This isn’t an isolated trend. HUB International’s recent acquisition of Flexible Benefits Plans, Inc., and Amwins’ previous purchase of Kilpatrick Companies both point to a growing movement: larger firms are expanding their benefits capabilities, and ancillary benefits are a major focus.

Market Impact: What to Expect

This deal raises key questions for the industry:

• Will more GAs invest in ancillary lines to stay competitive?

• How will carriers adjust their distribution strategies in response to this shift?

• What opportunities will this create for brokers looking to offer more value to their clients?

One thing is clear: the role of the GA is evolving, and the firms that act now will shape the future of group benefits.

What This Means for Your Business

Brokers and carriers aren’t just selling insurance—they’re helping businesses provide security, stability, and peace of mind to their employees. But to do that effectively, you need to stay ahead of market shifts.

That’s where Benefeature comes in.

✅ We’re the only platform tracking GA performance, growth trends, and industry shifts in real time. Whether it’s spotting a plateau like Amwins’ or tracking a rising GA like Nelligan, we help you stay ahead of the market.

💡 Find Your Competitive Edge – With GAs consolidating and ancillary benefits on the rise, staying informed is key.

– The Benefeature Team

Source - https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/amwins-and-nelligan-join-forces-to-expand-ancillary-benefit-offerings-302416240.html