10-KPeriod: FY2012

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2012

Filed February 8, 2013For Securities:AJG

Summary

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (AJG) reported strong performance in its 2012 fiscal year, driven by growth in its brokerage and risk management segments. The company's total revenues increased to $2.52 billion, with the brokerage segment accounting for 73% of this revenue. AJG continued its strategic acquisition approach, completing 58 acquisitions in 2012, which contributed significantly to its revenue growth. The company also highlighted progress in its clean energy investments, which are expected to contribute positively to earnings in the coming years. Despite economic headwinds, AJG demonstrated expense discipline and workforce management, leading to improved profitability and adjusted EBITDAC margins. The company's international operations also expanded, now representing 20% of total revenues. Looking ahead, AJG anticipates continued growth through a combination of organic expansion and further acquisitions. The firm's strategic focus on niche/practice groups and middle-market accounts, coupled with its integrated service offerings, positions it well for future success. Management expressed confidence in the company's ability to navigate the uncertain economic environment and generate value for shareholders.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1Total revenues grew to $2.52 billion, a 18% increase from the previous year, driven by strong performance in both the brokerage and risk management segments.
  • 2The brokerage segment remains the core revenue driver, representing 73% of total revenues, with organic growth in commissions and fees of 4.4%.
  • 3AJG executed a robust acquisition strategy, completing 58 acquisitions in 2012, contributing significantly to revenue growth and expanding its market presence.
  • 4The risk management segment saw revenue growth of 4%, with a notable 3.7% organic growth in fees.
  • 5Clean energy investments are showing promise, with projected positive contributions to earnings in 2013, aiming to fund future acquisition strategies.
  • 6The company maintained a strong focus on operational efficiency, achieving improved adjusted EBITDAC margins across its segments.
  • 7International operations continue to expand, contributing 20% of total revenues, with strong performance noted in the UK, Australia, Bermuda, and Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

AJG's primary revenue sources in 2012 were commissions and fees from its brokerage operations (accounting for 73% of total revenue) and fees from its risk management operations (accounting for 22% of total revenue). The corporate segment contributed the remaining 5%, primarily from clean energy and other investments.

AJG continued its aggressive acquisition strategy in 2012, completing 58 acquisitions that contributed $231.3 million in annualized revenues. These acquisitions were a key driver of the company's overall revenue growth.

AJG made significant progress in its clean energy investments during 2012, with many plants ramping up production. The company projects these investments to contribute positively to net earnings in 2013, potentially more than doubling their 2012 contribution, and these earnings are intended to fund further mergers and acquisition strategies.

AJG demonstrated expense discipline by undertaking workforce reductions in the fourth quarter of 2012, impacting approximately 400 positions. These actions were aimed at improving productivity through technology utilization and are expected to yield significant annual savings.