Press release – Sedgwick https://www.sedgwick.com Taking care of people is at the heart of everything we do. Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:35:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.sedgwick.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/cropped-25-345_02-14_SEDG_theCurrent_Rebrand_Profile_Icon-32x32.png Press release – Sedgwick https://www.sedgwick.com 32 32 Sedgwick optimizes claim workflows with AI application Sidekick and Microsoft integration https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-optimizes-claim-workflows-with-ai-application-sidekick-and-microsoft-integration/ Tue, 29 Apr 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=20625 Integration of generative and agentic AI capabilities and decades of claims experience signifies future of the industry

MEMPHIS, Tenn., April 29, 2025 — Sedgwick, the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, has launched a new evolution of its proprietary tool through an ongoing technology collaboration with Microsoft, using Azure OpenAI Service and Azure AI Document Intelligence. The tool, known as Sidekick Agent, is set to continue transforming the claims administration process by integrating generative AI, agentic AI orchestration and data science into Sedgwick’s global claims management systems.

“Enhancing and evolving Sidekick Agent to support clients and the needs of their customers and policyholders around the globe reinforces our position as the claim industry leader in leveraging AI,” said Mike Arbour, CEO at Sedgwick. “The foundational pillars of our technology strategy — unparalleled AI advancements, more than 50 years of real-world expertise and the industry’s richest data set — ensure our colleagues have the innovative tools needed to provide thoughtful, results-oriented solutions and address real-world challenges.” 

While the claims process has evolved incrementally over time, examiners’ workflows have remained largely unchanged. Sedgwick is driving a transformative shift forward with the introduction of Sidekick Agent, a new suite of agentic AI insights and capabilities providing real-time guidance to claims professionals at the desk level. Sidekick Agent promotes understanding of data science models, analytics around claim durations and reserves, and guidance into key next steps of the claim life cycle. It introduces efficiencies that streamline decision-making and lead to optimal claimant experiences, cost-effectiveness and claim outcomes.

“Thanks to our collaboration with Microsoft in developing Sidekick Agent, our colleagues can now devote their time to material and higher-level tasks that make a meaningful difference in the claims process,” said Leah Cooper, Global Chief Digital Officer at Sedgwick. “This latest advancement in GenAI provides real-time insights, mirrors the expertise of our stellar claims professionals, and further cements our position as the world’s premier claims administration partner.”    

Sidekick Agent has been integrated into the workflows and user interfaces of Sedgwick’s proprietary systems — giving examiners rapid claim insights, understanding of the day’s top priorities and forecasts of anticipated trajectories. This integration of Microsoft’s generative AI services, on the back of Sedgwick’s previous integration of Sidekick with ChatGPT technology, positions Agent as a key resource for claims professionals in responding to client requests and needs at a time when speed and efficiency are top priorities.

“Our collaboration with Sedgwick on Sidekick Agent showcases how generative AI can integrate with industry expertise to create smarter, more efficient tools for professionals,” said Bill Borden, Corporate Vice President, Worldwide Financial Services at Microsoft. “Combining Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, Azure AI Document Intelligence, and Sedgwick’s knowledge base streamlines processes and sets a new precedent for AI-driven advancements in claims and risk management.”  

A key aspect of Sidekick Agent, powered by agentic AI, is enhanced quality assurance, which is vital for ensuring consistency and compliance in the claims process. Further, as the insurance and risk management industry grapples with talent shortages, knowledge gaps and the retirement of seasoned experts, Sidekick is positioned to attract and support the next generation of claims professionals with real-time, AI-driven guidance that will prepare them for long-term success. 

Sidekick integrates with the Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service to support and enhance Sedgwick’s established claim management tools, as well as redefine claims processing by delivering unmatched efficiency and insights to claims professionals, claimants and clients. 

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is the world’s leading risk and claims administration partner, helping clients thrive by navigating the unexpected. The company’s expertise, combined with the most advanced AI-enabled technology available, sets the standard for solutions in claims administration, loss adjusting, benefits administration and product recall. With over 33,000 colleagues and 10,000 clients across 80 countries, Sedgwick provides unmatched perspective, caring that counts, and solutions for the rapidly changing and complex risk landscape. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Sedgwick’s fraud strategy saved £37m for clients in 2024 https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwicks-fraud-strategy-saved-37m-for-clients-in-2024/ Tue, 15 Apr 2025 09:24:00 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=20250 London, 15 April 2025 – Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions, has reported that initiatives linked to the company’s claims fraud strategy have resulted in a significant saving of £37m in 2024.

“Protecting our clients and their honest customers from the cost of insurance fraud is a non-negotiable element of handling claims,” said Ian Carman, Director, Head of Forensic & Investigation Services for Sedgwick in the UK. “We place emphasis and focus on understanding the ever-evolving insurance fraud landscape and, in particular, the threats posed by fraudsters using technology to facilitate their economically damaging activity.”

Carman added: “I’m incredibly pleased that our unrelenting effort to identify and challenge dishonest claims has once again resulted in significant savings for our insurer clients in the UK. We continue to achieve these exceptional results by blending industry collaboration with highly skilled and ever-alert colleagues, supplemented by an ecosystem of sophisticated counter-fraud technologies.”

Sedgwick reported a rise in fraudulent activity involving increasingly intricate methods, including cross-border false claims supported by realistic-looking forged documents. These included fabricated bank statements, flight boarding passes, credible-looking holograms and foil strips – and even death certificates. The rise in availability of generative AI tools has made it easier for would-be fraudsters to produce convincing fake documentation, Sedgwick warned, highlighting the evolving nature of insurance fraud risk across all product lines and geographies.

Sedgwick also noted an increase in demand from multinational corporations, MGAs and captives looking to strengthen their fraud detection capabilities.“Insurance fraud is a daily crime with serious financial impact,” said Steve Crystal, Head of Fraud and Investigation Services, International. “This isn’t a victimless issue – as well as genuine customers, it strikes at the heart of global markets. Today, no one country dominates counter-fraud demand. We’re seeing appetite from all corners of the world, which is why our focus is on delivering ethical, proportionate investigations everywhere to help clients manage evolving risk, and to protect their customers from increased premiums attributable to fraud loss.”

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Stewart Kirkpatrick joins Sedgwick as Executive General Adjuster in Alberta https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/stewart-kirkpatrick-joins-sedgwick-as-executive-general-adjuster-in-alberta/ Fri, 04 Apr 2025 17:30:00 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=18360

TORONTO, April 4, 2025 — Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting, and technology-enabled business solutions, today announced the addition of Stewart Kirkpatrick as Executive General Adjuster in the major complex loss division within its Canadian operations. Kirkpatrick brings over 25 years of global experience as an adjuster.

Kirkpatrick previously worked at Sedgwick, and has held commercial adjuster roles at McLarens Group, Crawford & Company, and more.

His experience reaches internationally and taps service lines including commercial property, general and contractor’s liability, cash-in-transit, and appraisal services across industries like construction, energy, finance, agriculture and media. Kirkpatrick has navigated CAT deployments in New Zealand, Australia, the Caribbean, and Mexico, and has led claims efforts involving equipment failures, sabotage, fraud, and environmental incidents in Panama, Colombia, Trinidad & Tobago, among others.

“I look forward to continuing to drive results and client satisfaction on a wide variety of claims for Sedgwick’s talented team in Canada,” said Kirkpatrick. “My history in international markets solving intricate problems has provided me with skills I look forward to leveraging in my new role.”

“With his expertise in managing complex claims across diverse industries and extensive international background, Stewart brings unmatched insight and a proven track record in risk analysis and resolution,” said Lee Powell, Sedgwick VP of major and complex loss in Canada. “Stewart will strengthen our commitment to excellence and innovative solutions for our clients.”

Holding a Master of Arts in Modern Languages from the prestigious University of St. Andrews, Scotland, Kirkpatrick also brings multilingual abilities in French, Spanish, German and Italian to complement his professional expertise as an executive general adjuster. 


About Sedgwick
Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Australian recall actions increase 14% in second half of 2024 https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/australian-recall-actions-increase-14-in-second-half-of-2024/ Thu, 13 Mar 2025 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=17525 Sedgwick brand protection releases latest Australian Recall Index report

SYDNEY, 14March 2025 – Australian recall actions increased 14% from the first half (H1) of 2024 to the second half (H2), according to the latest Sedgwick brand protection Australian Recall Index report. There were 686 recall actions in H2 2024 across five key industries, compared to 602 recalls in H1. For the whole year, there were 1,288 recalls in 2024, an increase of 7.1% over the 1,203 events recorded in 2023. 

Sedgwick’s biannual Australian report analyses product safety and recall data from the Australian automotive, consumer products, food and drink, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. It also includes data on defect corrections, defect alerts, and hazard alerts for the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors. This edition of the report not only includes H2 data but also provides a comprehensive year-in-review analysis of 2024 recall activity, offering insight into emerging risks shaping the product safety landscape.

Recall activity increased across all five sectors analysed in the report. The automotive sector experienced the biggest increase, with recalls rising 33.6% from H1 to H2 2024. The consumer product sector followed with a 14.9% increase, while recalls in the medical device sector grew 8.7%. Meanwhile, the pharmaceutical and food industries experienced more modest growth, with recalls rising 4.3% and 2.6% respectively.

In addition to the latest recall data and analysis, Sedgwick’s Recall Index report provides insights into current regulatory activity and perspectives on what stakeholders across Australian industries should be following. Throughout 2024, sustainability was a top priority for regulators with several agencies launching initiatives to help companies reduce their impact on the environment and increase compliance with relevant legislation. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission and Australian Securities and Investments Commission both took legal action against companies for making misleading greenwashing claims.

Regulators of the food sector focused on transparency and fair transactions, including conducting a review of the Food and Grocery Code to make changes that would ensure farmers and consumers are treated fairly by grocers. There were also big changes for the medical device and pharmaceutical sectors as the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) worked to implement a series of medical device reforms, such as new classifications for software-based medical device regulations. The TGA also rolled out its updated Uniform Recall Procedure for Therapeutic Goods, which emphasises the need to quickly disseminate information regarding defective products to the public.

“While Australian businesses contend with an increasing number of product recalls, they must also adapt to an evolving regulatory landscape,” said Chris Harvey, Senior Vice President of Brand Protection for Sedgwick. “In some cases, regulators are working to align Australian rules with those of other jurisdictions, while in other instances they are tailoring rules to meet specific market needs. These regulatory changes present both opportunities and risks for businesses. Strengthening existing risk management strategies with the support of expert partners and a focus on proactive planning can be pivotal in helping businesses protect their reputation and their operations.”

To download the H2 2024 Australian Recall Index report, click here.

The Sedgwick brand protection Australian Recall Index is published twice a year. It is the only report that aggregates and tracks Australian recall data to help industry stakeholders navigate the regulatory environment, product recalls, and other in-market challenges. For more information, visit https://www.sedgwick.com/brandprotection.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com

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Sedgwick launches Gen AI feature to expedite claims https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-launches-gen-ai-feature-to-expedite-claims/ Thu, 27 Feb 2025 15:14:55 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=17354 MEMPHIS, Tenn., Feb. 27, 2025 – Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting, and technology-enabled business solutions launches an innovative solution, an AI-generated claims summary feature in viaOne. The viaOne portal is Sedgwick’s digital hub that provides clients with real-time access to their data and visibility into every aspect of their claims. 

This new feature allows examiners and claims professionals to quickly view a summary of the past 12 months of information for a particular claim at the click of a button.This solution transforms the claims process as it efficiently provides key insights, reserve suggestions, next best actions, interactive settlements, quality assurance, predictive modeling, carrier requirements, and more. 

By leveraging Sedgwick’s proprietary GenAI technology, new efficiencies are created for examiners when taking over claims or conducting claims reviews, streamlining the process and saving time. This recent advancement in Sedgwick’s technology evolution journey further positions the company as the leading claims administrator in revolutionizing claims management.

“The creation of this claims summary feature is a testament to Sedgwick’s commitment to simplifying claims and transforming the industry. We remain hyper focused on utilizing the latest technology innovations to introduce new enhancements into the claims processes,” saidLeah Cooper, Global Chief Digital Officer. “By integrating data science, GenAI, and Sedgwick’s deep industry knowledge, we continue to develop solutions that elevate our client’s experience and raise the bar for the claims industry as a whole.” 

This innovation builds upon the success of the company’s Sidekick+ technology, an industry-first award-winning application launched in 2023 that integrates Microsoft/OpenAI’s ChatGPT technology with Sedgwick’s established claims management tools. 

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Sedgwick acquires legal spend management business from Bottomline https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-acquires-legal-spend-management-business-from-bottomline/ Thu, 20 Feb 2025 15:23:04 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=17357 MEMPHIS, Tenn., Feb. 20, 2025 – Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions and Bottomline, a global leader in business payments and cash management, have signed an agreement whereby Sedgwick will acquire Bottomline’s industry-leading legal spend management (LSM) division. The LSM business services the property and casualty (P&C) insurance industry, providing carriers, third party administrators (TPAs), self-insured entities and corporate legal departments with cloud-based software applications and complementary legal bill review solutions.

Sedgwick will leverage Bottomline’s modern and highly scalable LSM technology infrastructure, including its Legal-X and Legal eXchange web platforms, in helping clients control the cost of litigation. Pending the closing of the transaction, which is subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals, Sedgwick plans to operate the LSM business as a separate division.

“Bottomline’s LSM business is a strong fit for Sedgwick, and bringing these solutions in-house will enable us to better assist clients in making data driven decisions regarding their litigation management,” said Jim Ryan, Chief Operating Officer at Sedgwick. “This transaction sets a new standard of excellence for Sedgwick, positioning us as the unmatched claims partner for organizations worldwide. By integrating industry-leading LSM expertise in third party legal bill review into our existing capabilities, we will elevate the value we bring in meeting the evolving needs of our clients and their customers.”

The addition of end-to-end legal bill review solutions to Sedgwick’s menu of services will especially benefit the company’s casualty clients, who will enjoy streamlined e-billing, case management, reporting, analytics and vendor management services. 

“The combination of Sedgwick’s industry-leading property and casualty claims management services with LSM’s end-to-end legal bill review solutions will be game-changing for customers,” said Craig Saks, Bottomline CEO. “This transaction allows Bottomline to redouble our focus on business payments and cash management, while providing a great home for our LSM colleagues and customers. We are excited to watch them usher in a new chapter of growth for LSM.”

Sedgwick anticipates transitioning approximately 300 LSM colleagues to ensure clients receive the highest quality service from the experts they know and trust.

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC and BofA Securities served as financial advisors and Simpson, Thatcher & Bartlett LLP served as legal counsel to Sedgwick in connection with this transaction. Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. served as financial advisor and Kirkland & Ellis LLP served as legal counsel to Bottomline.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

About Bottomline

Bottomline helps businesses transform the way they pay and get paid. A global leader in business payments and cash management, Bottomline’s secure, comprehensive solutions modernize payments for businesses and financial institutions globally. With over 35 years of experience, moving more than $16 trillion in payments annually, Bottomline is committed to driving impactful results for customers by reimagining business payments and delivering solutions that add to the bottom line. Bottomline is a portfolio company of Thoma Bravo, one of the largest software private equity firms in the world, with more than $166 billion in assets under management. For more information, visit bottomline.com.

Bottomline and the Bottomline logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Bottomline Technologies, Inc.

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European product recalls reached unprecedented high in 2024 https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/european-product-recalls-reached-unprecedented-high-in-2024/ Tue, 18 Feb 2025 15:17:40 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=17355 Sedgwick brand protection releases year-in-review analysis of 2024 European recall data

LONDON, 18 February 2025 – There were 14,484 European product recalls across five key industries in 2024, according to Sedgwick brand protection’s 2025 European State of the Nation Recall Index report. This represents the sixth consecutive year of recall growth and the highest annual total on record.

Notably, each quarter in 2024 saw an unprecedented 3,500 recalls, with Q4 alone setting a new single-quarter record of 3,903 events. This consistent rise reflects the intensifying regulatory scrutiny and shifting safety expectations that manufacturers must proactively manage in today’s evolving landscape.

Sedgwick’s quarterly Recall Index report analyses recall data across the UK and EU automotive, consumer product, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. This special edition not only includes fourth quarter events but also provides a comprehensive year-in-review analysis of 2024 recall activity and emerging product safety trends. 

In 2024, recall volumes surged in several sectors, with food and beverage (+12.2%), medical devices (+11.1%), and consumer products (+32.9%) all surpassing their 2023 figures and setting new annual records. The food and beverage sector crossed a significant threshold, recording over 5,000 recalls for the first time, while the consumer products industry reached its highest annual total in 11 years with 4,376 events. In contrast, the automotive sector saw an 8.0% year-over-year decline and the pharmaceutical industry reported one fewer recall compared to 2023, reflecting relative stability amidst broader fluctuations.

Beyond the recall data and analysis, this report also provides essential insights into the regulatory developments that influenced 2024 and forecasts what stakeholders should anticipate in 2025. In 2024, regulators advanced rules to promote fair competition and trade, greener practices, and consumer protection. This included several cross-sector regulations that were proposed or went into effect, as well as major shifts in specific industries, such as the EU’s General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) and the UK’s Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act (DMCC Act). 

Like many other jurisdictions, both the UK and EU are taking steps to regulate the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The EU’s AI Act took effect in August, establishing a risk-based framework for regulating AI. In contrast, the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is advocating for a more flexible approach, allowing individual industries to shape rules tailored to their specific needs. As regulators continue to refine their strategies, businesses should anticipate further developments in AI regulations throughout 2025.

“While recall activity is impossible to predict with certainty, current trends indicate overall recall numbers will continue to increase in 2025,” said Chris Occleshaw, International Product Recall Consultant at Sedgwick. “Businesses face an increasingly complex risk landscape shaped by overlapping regulatory obligations and diverging approaches across regions like the EU, UK, and U.S. businesses need to be diligent about reviewing their risks and regularly update their plans for responding to product recalls and in-market challenges.”

To download the latest European Recall Index report, click here.

The Sedgwick brand protection Recall Index is published every quarter. It is the only report that aggregates and tracks recall data across the EU and UK to help industry stakeholders navigate the regulatory environment, product recalls, and other in-market challenges. For more information, visit www.sedgwick.com/brandprotection.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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U.S. product recalls reach second-highest level in six years during 2024 https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/u-s-product-recalls-reach-second-highest-level-in-six-years-during-2024/ Thu, 13 Feb 2025 19:47:37 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=17267 Sedgwick brand protection releases year-in-review analysis of 2024 recall data

MEMPHIS, Tenn., Feb. 13, 2025 – The number of U.S. product recalls remained high during 2024 with more than 3,200 events recorded for the second consecutive year. According to Sedgwick brand protection’s 2025 U.S. State of the Nation Recall Index report, the 3,232 recalls across five key industries represent the second-highest annual total in the past six years. Notably, 2023 and 2024 are the only consecutive years in the past decade in which U.S. recall events have exceeded 3,200. In contrast, the number of defective products recalled in 2024 fell to its lowest level since 2015, with 680.9 million units. This is a significant drop from the nearly 1.5 billion units that were recalled just two years earlier in 2022.

Sedgwick’s quarterly Index report analyzes recall data from the automotive, consumer product, food and drink, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries. This special edition not only includes Q4 events, but also provides a comprehensive year-in-review analysis of 2024 recall data and product safety trends. Multiple industries reached significant recall milestones in 2024. The consumer products sector experienced its second-highest recall total in the past eight years, while the medical device sector recorded a four-year high for recall events. 

In contrast, the food and drink industry under the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) purview recorded the second lowest annual total in the last decade in 2024, despite setting a six-year high in terms of units impacted. Meanwhile, the pharmaceutical sector hit an 11-year annual low for the number of defective units recalled.

Beyond the recall data and analysis, this report also provides essential insights into the regulatory developments that influenced 2024 and forecasts what stakeholders should anticipate in 2025. Looking back at 2024, litigation emerged as a significant trend, with organizations filing lawsuits against government agencies and regulators pursuing criminal actions against companies and individuals related to recall and product safety issues. 

In addition, the food and drink industry faced several major recalls in 2024, driven by safety risks such as lead-contaminated cinnamon and Listeria contaminationin deli meats. The impacts of these recalls will likely unfold throughout 2025, as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) pushes for greater oversight of ingredients and the USDA reviews its inspection and recall procedures.

Artificial intelligence (AI) was another key focus for regulators across industries during 2024. That trend is expected to continue in 2025 as the U.S. looks to keep pace with technological innovations while balancing user safety. It is uncertain if these enforcement and litigation trends will continue in 2025 under a new administration or how regulatory priorities may shift. 

“It is difficult to say exactly why the number of units recalled continues to fall while the number of product recalls remains high. Manufacturers may be producing smaller batches, overall production could be down, or improvements in traceability might be allowing companies to more accurately identify defective items,” noted Chris Harvey, Senior Vice President of Brand Protection for Sedgwick. “As the new administration develops its agenda, companies may experience some uncertainty with regulatory priorities. In the face of change, it is essential for companies to continue to routinely plan and practice for product recalls and in-market crises.”

To download the latest U.S. Recall Index report, click here.

The Sedgwick brand protection Recall Index is published every quarter. It is the only report that aggregates and tracks recall data across multiple regulatory agencies and industries to help stakeholders navigate the regulatory environment, product recalls, and other in-market challenges. For more information, visit www.sedgwick.com/brandprotection.

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Sedgwick strengthens growth capabilities with strategic sales team reorganization https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-strengthens-growth-capabilities-with-strategic-sales-team-reorganization/ Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:46:12 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=17265 MEMPHIS, Tenn., Feb. 12, 2025 – Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions, announced a strategic reorganization of its U.S. sales team, with a new national and regional structure. The redesign will enhance market engagement and client experience, optimize operations, and better enable Sedgwick to serve its diverse customer base with personalized solutions and respond swiftly to market dynamics. 

In the new structure, Brad Krauss has been elevated to Executive Vice President, Head of Casualty and Specialty Business Development. Krauss has more than 30 years of experience in the insurance and risk management industry. He has been with Sedgwick since 2002, holding ascending roles that have engaged every segment of the organization and most recently leading development in Sedgwick’s emerging markets. 

As part of the reorganization, regional “zone” leaders are now responsible for the architecture and deployment of all casualty solutions in their respective markets. The appointed regional leaders are Mike Betti, Central; Mike Chiaramonte, Northeast; Allison Kelly, South; Tom Pfingstag, Southeast; and Todd Squiers, West. 

“This structure represents a tremendous opportunity for Sedgwick to utilize our team’s extensive market knowledge, relationships and expertise,” stated Scott Rogers, Sedgwick’s Chief Growth Officer. “With Brad’s leadership, the team is well-equipped to meet, align with, and surpass the needs of current markets, partners, and prospective clients in the years ahead.”

According to Rogers, the new growth structure is focused on key market segments and regions, reflecting Sedgwick’s commitment to delivering exceptional performance and strengthening the company’s position as an industry leader, while increasing accessibility and service levels in local markets. In a rapidly evolving landscape, the company’s new structure will promote and drive specific solutions that are enhanced by key expertise for each region of the country. 

“Meeting the needs of our clients by delivering tailored and timely solutions is at the heart of what Sedgwick does best,” Krauss said. “As I take on this new role, I look forward to driving value focused outcomes for our clients, bolstering our organization’s partnership approach, and elevating solutions we offer to new heights.” 

About Sedgwick

Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Sedgwick promotes Kumar Siva to Chief Operating Officer in Canada https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-promotes-kumar-siva-to-chief-operating-officer-in-canada/ Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=17172 TORONTO, February 4, 2025 — Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions has appointed Kumar Siva to the role of Chief Operating Officer in Canada.

Since 2023, Siva held the role of Senior Vice President for third- party administration (TPA) services and desktop solutions at Sedgwick. Prior to joining Sedgwick, he oversaw service delivery to Canadian national insurers as a chief operating officer, along with other senior leadership roles supporting business excellence, vendor management and national independent adjusting operations. He has more than 20 years of experience in the insurance services sector. 

“Since joining Sedgwick, Kumar has demonstrated his strengths in strategic planning and execution, business development and providing our clients with exceptional service,” said Mike Alwyn, Sedgwick CEO for Canada. “In his new role, Kumar will continue to play an integral role in driving operational efficiency, enhancing the customer experience, and further strengthening our position as a leader in the industry.”

“Sedgwick’s success is built on our ability to deliver exceptional claims management and innovative solutions that help our clients solve complex challenges in an ever-changing world,” Siva said. “I look forward to driving operational efficiencies and enhanced customer solutions as the industry continues to evolve, and the needs of our clients shift as they learn to navigate the unexpected.  

For more about Sedgwick in Canada, visit sedgwick.com/ca or call 888-601-6228.

About Sedgwick
Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Sedgwick introduces the first carbon neutral repairs initiative in the UK https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-introduces-the-first-carbon-neutral-repairs-initiative-in-the-uk/ Thu, 16 Jan 2025 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=16846 LONDON, 16 January 2025 – Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions launches a groundbreaking carbon neutral repairs initiative in the UK, setting a new benchmark for sustainability in insurance repairs. This strengthens Sedgwick’s suite of award-winning sustainability solutions for clients.

Sedgwick’s repair solutions division will offset the carbon emissions generated during repair processes for clients whose projects are tracked through the company’s proprietary carbon value calculator. By purchasing high-quality carbon credits, this ensures that emissions are neutralised through projects such as reforestation and the development of eco-friendly energy solutions in underserved regions.

“This marks a pivotal step in our journey. We’ve taken great strides in measuring and understanding our carbon footprint, and now we’re going further by directly investing in solutions to offset it, said Peter Wassell, Technical Director for Sedgwick’s repair solutions.
“This programme not only aligns with our commitment to sustainability but also supports
our clients.”

Precise carbon offsetting made possible

A key strength of the initiative lies in its ability to calculate precise carbon values for repairs. Using its proprietary carbon value calculator, Sedgwick’s repair solutions division determines the carbon footprint of repairs scheduled through its own systems, enabling accurate purchases of carbon credits to offset emissions.

For projects managed through client-specified systems where carbon data may not be readily available, Sedgwick’s repair solutions will use its established methodology to ensure consistency. By calculating a CO2 value per £ of repair cost—based on data from projects processed via its internal systems—Sedgwick’s repair solutions division applies this metric to estimate total emissions for client projects tracked through external systems. This innovative approach ensures that all repairs can be made carbon neutral, regardless of the system used.

Prioritising environmentally responsible practices

The initiative builds on the introduction of Sedgwick’s carbon value calculator and reinforces its commitment to sustainability at a time when insurers and policyholders are increasingly prioritising environmentally responsible practices. Additionally, the move aligns with evolving customer expectations.

First to market

With this programme, Sedgwick’s repair solutions division positions itself as the first carbon-neutral network in its field. “Our leadership in sustainability is a source of pride,” said Peter Farrelly, Sedgwick’s Chief Operating Officer in the UK. “Not only are we offsetting emissions, but we are also driving internal changes, such as prioritising low-carbon materials to reduce overall carbon production.”

A commitment to the future

As the insurance and repair industries face mounting pressure to adopt greener practices, Sedgwick’s initiative paves the way for others to follow. This milestone is not just about addressing today’s challenges but also inspiring long-term change in the way repairs are managed globally.

About Sedgwick
Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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Sedgwick announces new leadership in Japan and Taiwan https://www.sedgwick.com/press-release/sedgwick-announces-new-leadership-in-japan-and-taiwan/ Mon, 06 Jan 2025 02:00:00 +0000 https://www.sedgwick.com/?p=16739 SINGAPORE, 6 January 2025 – Sedgwick, a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions, has announced new leadership in Japan and Taiwan as the company continues its commitment to the region and expands its growth strategy. 
 
In Japan, Shuji Tanaka has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer for operations in the country, and Takeshi Nagao, who currently serves as Managing Director, will remain with Sedgwick and transition to the role of Chairman. In Taiwan, Cameron Lee, who currently serves as Head of Construction and Engineering, was promoted to Chief Executive Officer, and Huoo-Lian Liou (Andy Liou), who currently serves as Managing Director, will transition to the role of Chairman. 
 
“Our new leadership in Japan and Taiwan will lead the development of new initiatives to support our clients in the region. Their stellar work and extensive insurance capabilities will support the continued success of our clients,” said Stephen Kerr, Sedgwick Chief Executive Officer, Asia. “I want to share my appreciation and gratitude for Takeshi-san and Andy for their leadership, and the incredible foundations they’ve laid for continued growth.” 
 
Tanaka-san has nearly four decades of claims experience in Japan and the USA with major Japanese and global insurers. He is an experienced corporate planning manager with extensive expertise working in the information technology and risk management sectors. His background in claims management includes commercial property and casualty insurance claims service in both global and domestic commercial markets. With significant knowledge and proficiency in the global insurance sector in the U.S and Japan, he brings to Sedgwick a wealth of experience in claims managementcustomer central programming, large litigation claims, innovation,
and technology.  
 
“I am pleased to join Sedgwick as we prepare to build on the foundation set by Takeshi-san. I will work by his side to provide transition support and continuity, while exploring new solutions for our clients,” said Tanaka-san. “At Sedgwick, we are fully committed to the long-term growth of our Japanese operation and are here to help our clients navigate the unexpected.”
 
Lee has nearly two decades of experience as a loss adjuster in the Taiwan market, focused on related losses. He has significant expertise in the electrical engineering, electronic equipment, machinery breakdown, and power plant industry sectors, and specializes in EAR and MB claims. His skillset will provide Sedgwick with the ability to enhance capabilities in the region, as well
as globally. 
 
“I look forward to the opportunity to lead operations for Sedgwick’s work in Taiwan and build upon the incredible work accomplished by Liou and the team,” said Lee. “By combining local talent and expertise with global and national experience, Sedgwick is uniquely positioned to provide to our clients unmatched services, talent, and know-how in a rapidly evolving industry.” 
 
About Sedgwick
Sedgwick is a leading global provider of claims management, loss adjusting and technology-enabled business solutions. The company provides a broad range of resources tailored to clients’ specific needs in casualty, property, marine, benefits, brand protection and other lines. At Sedgwick, caring counts; through the dedication and expertise of over 33,000 colleagues across 80 countries, the company takes care of people and organizations by mitigating and reducing risks and losses, promoting health and productivity, protecting brand reputations, and containing costs that can impact performance. Sedgwick’s majority shareholder is The Carlyle Group; Stone Point Capital LLC, Altas Partners, CDPQ, Onex and other management investors are minority shareholders. For more, see sedgwick.com.

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