World Insurance Associates Acquires Still Creek Insurance | Significant Industry Move

World Insurance Associates LLC has completed the acquisition of Still Creek Insurance, a Rockville, Maryland-based agency, effective March 1, 2026. The terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, marking another step in the company's strategic expansion through acquiring independent agencies.

Still Creek Insurance, guided by partners Steven Bender, Kevin Rowe, and David Wexler, specializes in auto, home, business, and life insurance products. This acquisition underscores World Insurance Associates’ strategy of growth by leveraging private equity investments to fuel its expansion.

Established in 2011 by Rich Eknoian and headquartered in Iselin, New Jersey, World Insurance Associates has executed over 250 acquisitions. The firm's growth is bolstered by significant investments from Charlesbank Capital Partners and Goldman Sachs Asset Management, injecting over $1 billion, valuing the company at approximately $3.4 billion in enterprise value.

Despite a general slowdown in the insurance market, World Insurance persisted in increasing its merger and acquisition activity, as noted in OPTIS Partners' annual M&A review. Notably, Still Creek’s expertise in auto and home insurance aligns with Maryland's evolving personal lines market, which has seen fluctuations in premium rates and a significant decrease in fatal crashes.

The U.S. insurance brokerage M&A market experienced a decline in 2025, with only 695 transactions, down from 787 in 2024. However, significant deals increased, including Arthur J. Gallagher's $2.9 billion acquisition of AssuredPartners. Such transactions highlight the ongoing interest in strategic growth amidst a slower market.

Analysts note that succession planning plays a pivotal role in driving acquisitions, with many smaller agencies seeking financial resources and expanded networks through larger entities like World. Still Creek's decision to join World aligns with these trends, reflecting the broader industry focus on sustainability and growth.

Legal counsel for the transaction was provided by Giordano, Halleran & Ciesla for World Insurance Associates and by APEX Business Consulting LLC for Still Creek Insurance. No additional advisors were disclosed in the deal.