Assurant, Inc. (NYSE: AIZ) is taking a decisive step to expand its Asia-Pacific footprint and advance sustainable post-purchase solutions with the acquisition of RL Circular Operations, formerly TIC Reverse Logistics. The move reinforces Assurant’s position as a leader in reverse logistics, device lifecycle management, and circular economy solutions across priority APAC markets, particularly Australia and New Zealand.
As consumer expectations evolve toward seamless returns, responsible asset recovery, and sustainability-driven retail practices, Assurant is investing in capabilities that redefine the post-purchase experience while delivering measurable environmental and commercial value.
Strengthening Post-Purchase and Reverse Logistics Across APAC
RL Circular Operations is widely recognised as a leading provider of post-purchase workflow and reverse logistics services for retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers in Australia and New Zealand. By bringing this expertise in-house, Assurant significantly enhances its ability to deliver end-to-end post-purchase services—from returns management to asset recovery—while reducing dependence on third-party logistics providers.
This acquisition aligns closely with Assurant’s strategy to integrate AI-based technologies into retail and device lifecycle management programs. These technologies are designed to reduce waste, improve operational efficiency, and increase asset monetisation, all while supporting sustainability goals across the retail value chain.
Driving Circular Economy and Sustainable Retail Innovation
At the core of the acquisition is a shared commitment to advancing the circular economy. Effective reverse logistics and asset recovery play a critical role in extending product lifecycles, reducing landfill waste, and maximising the residual value of returned or refurbished devices.
According to Biju Nair, EVP and President, Global Connected Living at Assurant, growing consumer demand for frictionless returns and sustainable solutions is reshaping the retail landscape. By adding RL Circular Operations to its portfolio, Assurant aims to deliver best-in-class post-sales experiences while setting new benchmarks for sustainability, operational excellence, and customer trust across APAC.
Expanding Capabilities in Priority APAC Markets
Australia and New Zealand represent two of Assurant’s most strategic growth markets in the Asia-Pacific region. The acquisition strengthens Assurant’s competitive position in the retail channel while expanding its extended warranty, mobile value chain, and connected device protection services.
Hemaka Perera, APAC President at Assurant, noted that the integration of RL Circular Operations will enable the company to scale innovation more rapidly and deliver greater value to clients and partners. The expanded capabilities support retailers and manufacturers looking to improve returns management, enhance customer experience, and meet increasingly stringent sustainability expectations.
A Proven Platform for Scalable Growth
Founded in 1989, TIC Group operates across three core business lines: post-purchase customer experience, centralised return centers, and asset recovery. With offices in Melbourne, Auckland, Mumbai, and Gurgaon, the organisation brings deep regional expertise and operational scale.
For RL Circular Operations, joining Assurant opens the door to broader innovation. Managing Director Sanjay Sehgal highlighted that Assurant’s global reach, along with its investments in AI and robotics, will help elevate service offerings and unlock new opportunities for retailers and manufacturers navigating complex post-purchase and sustainability challenges.
Redefining the Future of Post-Purchase Experiences
This acquisition underscores Assurant’s long-term vision to lead the transformation of post-purchase ecosystems—where efficiency, sustainability, and customer-centric design converge. By combining global protection expertise with regional reverse logistics leadership, Assurant is well-positioned to help partners optimise device value, improve customer loyalty, and accelerate progress toward sustainable retail operations.
About Assurant
Assurant, Inc. (NYSE: AIZ) is a premier global protection company that partners with the world’s leading brands to safeguard and service connected devices, homes, and automobiles. As a Fortune 500 company operating in 21 countries, Assurant leverages data-driven technology solutions to provide exceptional customer experience.
