Agribusiness Appetite Grain Operations and Seed Merchants
We’re kicking things off with grain operations and seed merchants. These businesses play a critical role in the ag supply chain and, with strong controls and housekeeping practices in place, can represent stable, well-performing accounts.
Grain Operations
We are focused on writing grain operations involved in storage and merchandising, with some opportunity for farm supply exposures.
Ideal Account Profile
- Premium range: $50,000-$250,000+
- Most competitive range: $75,000-$150,000
- Construction: Non-combustible or better
- Wind rings on bins in CAT-prone areas
Operational Practices
We are especially interested in accounts that demonstrate:
Facility Management
- Formal housekeeping plans
- Formal dust collection systems
Product and Quality Controls
- Grain weighed and tested upon arrival
- Batch samples retained
- Moisture testing (manual or temperature monitoring cables)
- Rejection procedures for out-of-spec grain
Safety and Loss Prevention Features
- Explosion vents
- Motion sensors
- Belt alignment monitors
- Magnets throughout grain legs
For additional underwriting insight, refer to our Grain Storage and Feed Manufacturing Supplemental Applications on Agents Web Passport (AWP).
Seed Merchants
Seed merchants represent a diverse segment, and we’re open to a wide range of operations, including:
- Seed relabeling and repackaging for retail sale
- Processing, cleaning, and conditioning operations
- Wholesale and retail seed distributors
- Farm-based seed sellers
Ideal Account Profile
- Premium range: $2,000-$250,000+
- Most competitive range: $10,000-$100,000
- Construction: Non-combustible
- Explosion-proof electrical systems
- Favorable protection class
- Auto: Local or intermediate radius vehicle operations
Operational Practices
Seed operations vary widely, but the strongest accounts have disciplined risk management practices:
Facility Management
- Formal housekeeping plans
- Formal dust collection systems
- Safe chemical storage and handling
Product and Quality Controls
- Traceability protocols
- Mock recall procedures
Where We’re Not the Right Fit
While we see strong opportunity in grain operations and seed merchants, there are certain characteristics that may fall outside our appetite. These situations are typically evaluated on a case-by-case basis, as individual circumstances, controls, and regional considerations can vary.
In some instances, accounts may not have all the preferred controls in place today, but with the support of our risk control team , there may be opportunities to help strengthen those practices over time.
The following characteristics are typically outside our appetite or require additional underwriting review:
- Older site design with a frame mill present
- Rural locations beyond preferred guidelines (generally greater than 5 miles), particularly without a reliable on-site water source
- Manufacturing of feed or supplements intended for human consumption
- Unlicensed medicated mills
- Lack of batch sample retention
You Can Count on Westfield
Westfield brings deep experience in both farm and commercial agribusiness, with a clear understanding of grain and seed operations. This allows us to offer competitive, tailored solutions backed by consistent underwriting and practical risk insight for real-world exposures.
We see the whole picture — your customers, their operations, and the relationships you’ve built. With Westfield, you’re gaining a carrier who listens, keeps it simple, and delivers on the promise of protection for covered risks, just as we have for nearly 200 years.
Let’s Talk Opportunities
If you’re working with accounts that fit this appetite, connect with your underwriter to start the conversation. Together, we can identify the right solution and help you win — and retain — these accounts.