Optio Group has agreed to acquire London-based Gardian Marine Limited for an undisclosed sum, subject to regulatory approval, extending consolidation activity within the specialty MGA market while adding builders’ risks and related lines to its platform.
Gardian Marine focuses on marine builders’ risks insurance, ship repairers liability, voyage and towage coverage, alongside ancillary products supported by Lloyd’s and A-rated insurer capacity. Its underwriting has been structured to address specific gaps in the marine specialty segment.
With the addition, Optio’s marine portfolio now includes hull, cargo, war and shipbuilding risks.
Deepak Soni, CEO of Optio Group, said the business would “further strengthen our specialty capabilities and expand our London market presence,” adding that Gardian Marine had developed into “a respected and disciplined business” supported by the founders’ expertise and networks.
Gardian Marine is led by co-founders Guy Tyler and Edward Morgan, who previously held director roles at WTW. Tyler oversaw International Hull & Machinery, while Morgan led Special Risks.
They bring a combined 28 years of experience in builders’ risks insurance for shipyards and vessel owners, focusing on risk management requirements linked to vessel construction and repair. Tyler said he and Morgan have long placed value on specialist service, noting that access to Optio’s scale and resources will allow them to extend that approach while maintaining the service model clients rely on.
He said, “Ed and I have always understood the value of dedicated and expert service,” adding that the business intends to continue working with its capacity providers while delivering solutions for an ever-evolving risk landscape.
The transaction follows a series of acquisitions by Optio across Europe over the past 12 months, including full ownership of Italian MGA Heca S.r.l and the purchase of AGS Forsikring AS in Norway. Other deals during the period have included Den Hartigh, Circles Group, S Insurance and Custodian Management, reflecting continued activity across specialty lines and geographies.
Optio’s recent transactions have focused on MGAs with defined underwriting niches or regional capabilities. The addition of Gardian Marine introduces a London-based marine specialist into a portfolio that already includes marine hull expertise through S Insurance.
The acquisition is also consistent with Optio’s recent activity combining acquisitions and product development across specialty lines. Last year, the company introduced political violence and terrorism binders with limits of $150 million, supported by Lloyd’s of London. The launch took place during a period of increased activity in that segment, with other market participants, including AEGIS London, also adding capacity.
Optio has also entered into agreements with insurer partners such as AmFirst Insurance Co. to support underwriting capacity in selected lines.
Morgan said long-term relationships remain central to insurance outcomes and that joining Optio would support a closer understanding of clients and their risk profiles. He said this would allow the business to offer “the most appropriate and effective terms and conditions to suit their distinct needs,” adding that both firms share similar priorities in client service and underwriting.
Soni said the founders’ experience and networks have contributed to the development of the business and that their integration into Optio is consistent with its recent acquisition activity. He said, “We are delighted that they have agreed to develop the next stage of the business within Optio,” adding that the group looks forward to their contribution within the platform.
Morgan added that the businesses share a common approach, stating, “With shared values and a mutual commitment to excellence, we look forward to what Optio and Gardian Marine can achieve together.”
The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval.
