Relation Insurance Services has acquired the assets of Seattle-based Chinook Insurance Group, adding niche marine and specialty capabilities and expanding its presence in the Pacific Northwest.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
Chinook Insurance operates exclusively in the commercial space and brings particular strength in insurance solutions for subsea and aquaculture clients. These accounts typically involve specialized vessels, equipment, and contract structures that are often placed into the E&S market through specialist intermediaries.
“We’re excited to join a growing team like Relation,” said Christopher Trainer, chief executive officer of Chinook Insurance. “Being backed by Relation’s resources, capabilities, and nationwide carrier relationships will enable us to greatly enhance our service and offerings to our clients.”
The acquisition comes against a backdrop of ongoing broker consolidation and a structural shift toward specialty and delegated authority business in the US. Conning estimates that US MGA premium grew 16% in 2024 to about $114 billion, far outpacing the broader P&C market, with fronting carriers and Lloyd’s platforms supplying paper while MGAs and wholesalers design niche programs and distribution strategies.
At the same time, roughly a third of US commercial business is now placed in the E&S channel, highlighting a sustained move toward specialized intermediaries for nonstandard risks. Within that environment, bolt-on deals that add sector-specific expertise or new market access have become a core growth tactic for many mid-sized and national brokers.
Marine and aquaculture risks are a natural fit for that strategy. Subsea contractors, offshore service providers, and aquaculture operators often require bespoke hull, liability, and contingency programs that sit outside standard appetites, particularly as carriers reassess aggregation, geopolitical exposures, and climate‑related risk. Brokers with established relationships at Lloyd’s and in specialist marine markets can play a key role in assembling and maintaining that capacity.
“We’re excited to add Chinook and their proven capabilities to Relation,” said Tim Hall, chief executive officer of Relation. “We look forward to Christopher’s continued success and are eager to work alongside him in strengthening the solutions we bring to our clients every day.”
Trainer is expected to remain in a leadership role within Relation following the transaction, helping integrate Chinook’s subsea, aquaculture, and specialty liability expertise into Relation’s wider commercial offering.
Earlier this year, Relation Insurance purchased the assets of Thorn Creek Insurance, a property and casualty insurer based in Illinois. The deal strengthen Relation Insurance's capabilities in its farm and livestock accounts. Last year, Relation also acquired the assets of Joseph M. Wiedemann & Sons, an Illinois-based insurer.
The financial terms of both deals were undisclosed.
