Transactions

Sedgwick Acquires Nationwide Appraisals

Sedgwick, a leading global provider of technology-enabled risk, benefits and integrated business solutions, acquired Nationwide Appraisals, a premier auto damage appraiser and inspection provider for the insurance industry.

Nationwide Appraisals’ field inspection services leverage best-in-class technology and a coast-to-coast network of professionals to optimize the appraiser dispatch process, automate appraisal workflow and standardize reporting, allowing for seamless integration with key partners in the auto claim process. Their system directs claims to the appropriate pathways for resolution, including appraisals, photo estimations, repairs, car rentals/replacements and more.

“The addition of Nationwide Appraisals, along with their talented team and robust technology, brings tremendous value to Sedgwick; it enhances our larger suite of services and broadens our solutions in the personal claims space,” said Jim Ryan, president of casualty at Sedgwick. “Automotive claims have historically been completed by third-party vendors, but by joining forces with Nationwide Appraisals, Sedgwick will now be able to process them quickly and effectively for our clients.”

Adding Nationwide Appraisals to Sedgwick’s comprehensive auto suite further enhances the company’s fully in-house digital claims process. The combined end-to-end solution provides first and third-party claims handling, intake, appraisal, repair, vehicle replacement, salvage, quality control, liability assessment and other aspects of motor vehicle accident aftermath - all within one seamless network.

“At Nationwide Appraisals, we’ve always believed in serving clients through flexible claim management technologies that simplify the appraisal process,” said Chris Bakes, founder and CEO of Nationwide Appraisals, who joins Sedgwick as a managing director. “Our integration with Sedgwick seems organic as we share the common goal of providing better solutions for customers and growing together. We are excited to combine our resources and expertise for the benefit of our clients.”

Chris Bakes also had this to say about Waller Helms Advisors: “The Waller Helms team went above and beyond to help us at Nationwide achieve a successful outcome. From the beginning of the process to the transaction closing, the team took a detail-oriented approach and was focused on doing whatever they could to help minimize distractions to the Nationwide management team so we could focus on running the business. Their guidance in navigating the COVID environment proved to be critical as we pushed forward to closing a transaction with our new partner in Sedgwick.”