Jeffrey Wade
Sentry Insurance is a mutual insurance company that provides a range of business insurance products, including commercial auto insurance, property insurance, workers' compensation, and liability insurance. Founded in 1904, Sentry has established itself as a trusted provider of insurance solutions for small businesses and specialized industries, including trucking, construction, and manufacturing. With a focus on personalized service, Sentry works closely with its customers to understand their unique needs and offer customized coverage options. In addition to its commercial offerings, Sentry also provides personal insurance and non-insurance products such as annuities and retirement programs. Headquartered in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, Sentry has received numerous accolades for its financial strength and commitment to serving its policyholders.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Year founded | 1904 |
| Headquarters | Stevens Point, Wisconsin |
| Number of employees | Approximately 4,500 |
| Assets | Over $23.9 billion (as of December 31, 2021) |
| Policyholder surplus | Over $8 billion (as of December 31, 2021) |
| Fortune 1000 ranking | 697 (2023); 643 (2024) |
| Commercial insurance specializations | Trucking, construction, real estate, manufacturing, retail trade, wholesale trade, golf courses, horticulture |
| Other insurance products | Personal insurance, life insurance, group health insurance, auto insurance, property/casualty insurance |
| Non-insurance products | Annuities, retirement programs |
| Customer service features | In-house claims team, safety services, online resources |
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What You'll Learn
Sentry Insurance's history and awards
Sentry Insurance is a mutual insurance company that was founded in 1904 by members of the Wisconsin Retail Hardware Association, now the Midwest Hardware Association. The company was established to provide insurance for its members in the hardware industry. Sentry's headquarters for many years was the Hardware Mutual Insurance Companies Building, built in 1922 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 1977, Sentry moved to a new headquarters, and the old building remained in use until 2019.
Sentry offers property and casualty insurance, workers' compensation, life insurance, and other business insurance products. They are known for their commitment to long-term customer relationships and supporting communities. In 2012, Sentry Insurance named Pete McPartland CEO, and the company received a 2013 Stakeholder Team Accomplishment Recognition (STAR) award from Demotech, Inc. for its operating results in 2012. In 2015, the company affiliated with Florists' Mutual Insurance Company, and in 2017, they opened a Southeast regional office in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Sentry has received numerous awards and recognition over the years. They have consistently earned an A+ (superior) rating from AM Best, confirming their financial strength and ability to pay customer claims. In 2024, Sentry was recognised by Forbes Advisor and U.S. News & World Report as one of the best commercial truck insurers. The company was featured for its customer satisfaction, low level of complaints, and commitment to providing customised coverages. In 2025, Forbes recognised Sentry as one of America's Best Employers for New Grads, highlighting their support for early career talent.
Sentry Insurance has a strong presence in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, with approximately 4,500 employees located there. The company also owns the SentryWorld golf course, which opened in 1982 and is regarded as a "destination golf course". Sentry has grown significantly since its inception, expanding beyond Wisconsin and the hardware industry while retaining its core values as a mutual company.
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![The Sentry [New Printing 2]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81nEN2s2RDL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
Industries and businesses Sentry serves
Sentry Insurance is a mutual insurance company that specializes in business insurance. It offers property and casualty insurance, workers' compensation, life insurance, and other business insurance products, as well as non-insurance offerings like annuities and retirement programs. Sentry is one of the largest mutual insurance companies in the nation, with assets of over $23.9 billion as of December 31, 2021.
Sentry Insurance serves a diverse range of industries and businesses, including:
Trucking and Transportation
Sentry Insurance is recognized as a top insurer for the trucking industry. They offer customizable coverage options, flexible deductible choices, and specialized safety programs for businesses ranging from owner-operators to large fleets. The company insures more than 7,000 trucking customers and 48,000 units, earning accolades from Forbes Advisor and U.S. News & World Report for customer satisfaction and low complaint rates.
Hardware Industry
Sentry Insurance was founded in 1904 by the Wisconsin Retail Hardware Association (now the Midwest Hardware Association) to provide insurance for its members in the hardware industry. While the company has since diversified, it maintains a strong presence in this sector.
Small Businesses
Sentry Insurance understands the importance of a personal touch in small businesses and offers tailored insurance solutions to meet their unique needs. They assist small businesses in managing claims, minimizing risks, and developing a proactive safety culture.
Service Industries
Sentry Insurance provides insurance programs for various service industries, including communications, financial services, healthcare, and educational institutions. They work closely with businesses to understand their specific risks and requirements, offering flexible coverage options to protect their operations and employees.
Multinational Corporations
In addition to small businesses, Sentry Insurance also caters to large and multinational corporations. They get to know each business and help select the right insurance coverages and services to match their complex needs.
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Types of insurance Sentry offers
Sentry Insurance is a mutual insurance company that specializes in business insurance. The company offers a range of insurance products and services to protect businesses and their employees. Here are some of the types of insurance that Sentry offers:
Property and Casualty Insurance
Sentry provides property and casualty insurance to protect businesses from financial losses due to damage to their property or legal liability. This type of insurance covers risks such as fire, theft, or accidents that may occur on the business premises. Sentry's property and casualty companies have consistently received an A+ rating from A.M. Best, indicating their financial strength and stability.
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Sentry offers workers' compensation insurance to help businesses protect their employees. This type of insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation services for employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses. Sentry works closely with businesses to determine the best outcome for workers' compensation claims, ensuring a fair and efficient claims process.
Commercial Truck Insurance
Sentry is recognized as a top insurer for commercial trucks and fleets. They offer customizable insurance coverages and flexible deductible options for businesses in the trucking industry. Sentry's truck insurance is highly regarded for its customer satisfaction and low complaint rates, as recognized by Forbes and U.S. News & World Report.
Life Insurance
Sentry provides life insurance options for businesses and individuals. This type of insurance offers financial protection to loved ones or beneficiaries in the event of the insured's death. Sentry's life insurance products can be tailored to meet the specific needs of business owners, employees, or individuals seeking financial security for their families.
Business Owner's Insurance
Sentry offers comprehensive business owner's insurance to protect small businesses, large companies, and sole proprietors. This insurance covers various risks, including property damage, liability claims, and business interruptions. Sentry works closely with business owners to understand their unique needs and provide innovative solutions to minimize risks and ensure business continuity.
Sentry Insurance is committed to providing personalized insurance solutions and fostering long-term relationships with its customers. The company has a strong presence in the business insurance sector and is recognized for its financial strength and ability to handle claims efficiently.
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Sentry's subsidiaries
Sentry Insurance is a mutual insurance company that offers a range of insurance products and services to businesses and individuals. The company has a long history dating back to 1904 when it was founded by members of the Wisconsin Retail Hardware Association to provide insurance to its members in the hardware industry. Over the years, Sentry has expanded its offerings and reach, and today, it is one of the largest mutual insurance groups in the United States.
Sentry Insurance has several subsidiaries and brands that offer specialised insurance products and services. Here is an overview of some of Sentry's key subsidiaries:
- Dairyland: Dairyland is a well-known brand within the Sentry Insurance group. It specialises in providing non-standard auto insurance, motorcycle insurance, and a range of off-road vehicle insurance, including coverage for ATVs, UTVs, and snowmobiles. Dairyland has been in the niche insurance market since 1982 and has established itself as a trusted provider.
- Hortica: Hortica is a brand dedicated solely to the horticultural industry. With over 135 years of experience, Hortica has deep expertise in understanding the unique needs and risks associated with horticultural businesses and provides tailored insurance solutions.
- SentryWorld: While SentryWorld is known for its award-winning golf course in Wisconsin, it also encompasses a luxury boutique hotel, fine dining options, and facilities for weddings, banquets, and other events. SentryWorld enhances the Sentry brand by offering a unique experience to its customers and guests.
- The General: Acquired by Sentry Insurance in 2024, The General is a leading provider of nonstandard auto insurance in the United States. With over 60 years of experience, The General has established itself as a trusted and reliable brand in its market.
- Point Insurance: Point Insurance was established as an independent agency by Sentry Insurance in 2012. It serves policyholders in central Wisconsin and offers products from both Sentry and other insurance companies. Point Insurance allows Sentry to reach a broader customer base and provide a diverse range of insurance solutions.
- Specialty Business Unit: Led by industry veteran Heather Schenker, the Specialty business unit focuses on providing tailored insurance coverages and terms to customers with unique risks. This unit operates through two specific underwriting companies: Point Excess and Surplus Insurance Company, and Point Specialty Insurance Company, allowing for flexible and quick responses to market changes.
These subsidiaries and brands enable Sentry Insurance to cater to a diverse range of customers, from individuals with specific insurance needs to large businesses requiring specialised coverage. By offering customised insurance solutions, Sentry has established itself as a trusted and reliable insurance provider in the United States.
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Customer service and support
Sentry Insurance is a mutual insurance company that specializes in business insurance. The company offers a range of insurance products, including property and casualty insurance, workers' compensation, life insurance, and other business insurance options. In addition, they provide non-insurance products such as annuities and retirement programs. Sentry Insurance was founded in 1904 to provide insurance for members of the Wisconsin Retail Hardware Association, now known as the Midwest Hardware Association.
Sentry Insurance is committed to providing excellent customer service and support to its policyholders. The company has a dedicated team of claims professionals who work closely with customers to manage claims and develop proactive safety cultures to minimize risks.
Sentry's claims professionals have a detailed understanding of each policy, enabling them to provide tailored solutions to their customers. The company offers flexible deductible options and customizable insurance coverages to meet the unique needs of businesses of all sizes.
In addition to their expertise in claims handling, Sentry Insurance also provides support to its customers by helping them find the right coverage for their specific needs. They take the time to get to know their customers and their businesses, offering innovative solutions that make sense for each individual situation.
Sentry Insurance also demonstrates its commitment to customer service through its long-term relationships with its policyholders. The company has earned a reputation for maintaining these relationships and supporting its communities. This is evidenced by their consecutive A+ (superior) ratings from AM Best, confirming their financial strength and ability to pay customer claims.
Furthermore, Sentry Insurance offers support to its customers through its online resources and customer service team. Their website provides answers to frequently asked questions and information on how to start a claim. Customers can also contact Sentry's customer service team during business hours to receive assistance with their policies or claims.
Sentry Insurance's customer service and support extend beyond their policyholders. The company and its employees actively support a variety of nonprofits and educational institutions through donations, fundraising, and volunteerism. This includes raising funds for local nonprofits, such as a United Way campaign in Portage County, and donating food and household items to local food pantries.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Sentry Insurance is a commercial insurer. The company specializes in business insurance and offers a comprehensive suite of business insurance products.
Sentry Insurance offers coverage for a wide range of businesses, including commercial construction, commercial real estate, manufacturing, retail trade, service, wholesale trade, and even golf courses. They also provide specialized insurance programs for specific industries, such as trucking, and very large companies with complex risks.
Sentry Insurance offers a variety of industry-leading business insurance products, including commercial auto insurance, motor carrier insurance, dealership auto coverage, business owner's insurance, commercial property insurance, business liability insurance, workers' compensation insurance, and more. They also provide safety services and risk management solutions to help businesses identify and mitigate risks.
Sentry Insurance takes a personalized approach to commercial insurance. They work closely with their customers to understand their unique needs and offer innovative and customized insurance solutions. The company is known for its long-term customer relationships and commitment to supporting its policyholders and their businesses.
