New underwriting agency SafetyCulture Care has begun operations, with capacity provided by Allianz and aimed at small and medium-sized businesses in Australia and then global markets.

The launch comes after technology firm SafetyCulture recently acquired full ownership of Mitti, an underwriting agency venture it established in 2020 in partnership with QBE Ventures.

A QBE spokesperson says the Mitti partnership “has been great” and told insuranceNEWS.com.au “now is the right time for SafetyCulture to grow Mitti and we wish them continued success”.

SafetyCulture Care MD Frank Costigan says the agency’s main product is a commercial insurance package designed specifically for small to medium-sized businesses, with a blend of business package and industrial special risk (ISR) cover features.

“Business insurance is long overdue for some disruption and what we’re bringing to the table with SafetyCulture Care has the potential to redefine the nature of the relationship that businesses have with their insurer,” Mr Costigan told insuranceNEWS.com.au.

He says SafetyCuture Care’s point of difference is that the underwriting agency provides risk solutions, insurance and technology to help customers run better, safer businesses.

“Being owned by SafetyCulture allows us to work with brokers and in turn, allow them to provide the opportunity for customers to access the SafetyCulture platform – formerly known as iAuditor – and its technology, including checklists, sensors and training,” Mr Costigan said.

SafetyCulture runs a technology platform that helps clients perform checks, train staff, report issues, and automate tasks. Its clients include such companies as DHL, US airline JetBlue and European-based hotelier Accor.

There are plans to launch in other markets, with the US seen as the next opportunity.

Mr Costigan will oversee both the Australian and International operations of SafetyCulture Care and will act as the key contact for both broker and carrier/insurer relationships.

He joined SafetyCulture last year after leaving QBE, where he was Interim MD of the insurer’s Australia Pacific division.

Danial Cummins, who co-founded Mitti, has a new role at the company as GM.