Assurant has acquired RL Circular Operations and related subsidiaries, the reverse logistics division of Australia- and New Zealand-based TIC Group, as it pushes deeper into post-purchase services and circular economy solutions across Asia-Pacific. The deal, announced January 18, 2026, adds a major regional operator—formerly known as TIC Reverse Logistics—to Assurant’s Connected Living platform, strengthening returns management, device lifecycle services, and asset recovery capabilities for retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers.
Assurant said the acquisition is aimed at meeting rising consumer expectations for faster, more seamless returns while helping enterprise clients reduce waste and monetize returned or used products. Biju Nair, Assurant’s EVP and President of Global Connected Living, said the company is investing in integrated post-sales capabilities that increase efficiency, reduce reliance on third-party logistics partners, and support sustainability-focused retail and device lifecycle programs. He said RL Circular Operations’ regional presence and operational expertise will help Assurant set higher standards for sustainability and operational excellence in the post-purchase ecosystem.
Assurant APAC President Hemaka Perera said the transaction strengthens the company’s competitive position in the retail channel in Australia and New Zealand—markets Assurant described as APAC priorities—while expanding its extended warranty and mobile value chain capabilities. Assurant also highlighted its use of AI-based technologies to support retail workflows and device lifecycle management programs, positioning the combined platform as a more end-to-end offering for clients across the region.
TIC Group, founded in 1989, operates across post-purchase customer experience, centralized return centers, and asset recovery, with offices in Melbourne, Auckland, Mumbai, and Gurgaon. Assurant said bringing RL Circular Operations into its portfolio expands its ability to deliver end-to-end device lifecycle management, optimizing device value for clients and improving sustainability outcomes.
KEY QUOTES:
“As consumer expectations for seamless returns and sustainable product lifecycle solutions grow, Assurant is investing in integrated capabilities that reduce waste, improve efficiency, increase monetization, and build customer trust… The addition of RL Circular Operations aligns with our strategy to lead post-sales services across APAC… Together, we’ll deliver best-in-class experiences for the consumers, higher asset monetisation for the retailers, and set new standards for sustainability and operational excellence in the post-purchase ecosystem.”
Biju Nair, EVP and President, Global Connected Living, Assurant
“Welcoming RL Circular Operations to Assurant strengthens our ability to scale innovation and deliver even greater value to our clients and partners across the region. This acquisition also enhances our competitive position in the retail channel across Australia and New Zealand… and expands our extended warranty and mobile value chain capabilities.”
Hemaka Perera, APAC President, Assurant
“We are confident this partnership will unlock new opportunities for our team and our customers. Assurant’s global capabilities and investments in AI and robotics, combined with RL’s expertise, will help elevate our services and drive innovation across Australia and New Zealand, helping retailers and manufacturers meet evolving consumer demands and sustainability goals.”
Sanjay Sehgal, Managing Director, RL Circular Operations
