Global insurance broker Willis Group Holdings announced that it has been named as the lead broker for the World Expo 2010 in Shanghai. “It is the first time this event will be held in China and is also the first time a developing country will play host to the estimated 200 participating nations and international organizations with 70 million visitors expected,” said the announcement.
Willis explained: “The World Expo, which has been running for over 150 years is recognized as the leading global forum for economic, cultural and scientific discussions. With an estimated 55 percent of the world’s population expected to live in cities by the year 2010, the theme of the Expo, ‘Better City, Better Life’, will explore the full potential of urban life in the 21st century. Work has already commenced on the 5.28 square kilometer Expo site that straddles the famous Huangpu River that runs through the center of modern Shanghai.
“The Bureau of Shanghai World Expo Coordination, who is responsible for organizing the event, invited the three global brokers along with 19 local brokers to tender for the Insurance and Risk Management services. Willis’ winning approach was based on strong teamwork between Willis Pudong (a successful joint venture between Willis and a leading Chinese insurance broker), Willis Japan, Willis’ Global Markets Risk Management team and Willis’ Regional Construction team.”
Willis made its successful presentation to the CPS Shanghai Financial Work Committee, China Insurance Regulatory Commission, Shanghai Bureau and Bureau of Expo 2010. The firm highlighted its “vast global resources,” and said that “after careful evaluation, Willis was chosen as the lead broker for World Expo 2010 Shanghai, with local support from Asian Insurance Brokers of Shanghai.”
Roger Wilkinson, Managing Director of Willis in Asia commented: “We are delighted to be involved with such a prestigious event and the Risk Management and Insurance arrangements are already well underway. Awarding us with such high-profile business is an acknowledgement of the respect and trust that Willis has gained in the local Chinese business community and indeed globally.”
Mitchell Ma, CEO of Willis Pudong added: “Willis Pudong gained invaluable experience through our involvement with the 2005 World Expo in Aichi, Japan. We are confident that this coupled with our in-depth knowledge and understanding of the Chinese market will contribute to the success of World Expo 2010 Shanghai.”
Sarah Turvill, Chairman of Willis International noted: “We are very proud to be associated with the premier event for the world economy, science and technology. Willis is privileged to be involved in World Expo 2010 as it will no doubt contribute greatly to China’s reform and future development.”
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