Avla Insurance has officially entered the United States market, positioning itself as a strategic player in the surety industry with a specialized focus on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The company licensed to issue surety bonds this month has established its headquarters in Houston, Texas, marking a significant milestone in its regional expansion strategy.
Founded in Chile in 2009, the company began its regional expansion into Peru, followed by Brazil and Mexico, and is now strategically positioning itself in the United States. This expansion enables Avla to provide comprehensive support to Latin American customers with US-based requirements while simultaneously targeting the underserved US SME segment.
Andres Alamos, CEO of Avla United States and former CEO of Avla Peru, emphasized the company’s mission: delivering tailor-made solutions using a unique underwriting model. With 15 years of industry experience and a proven track record of market leadership, Alamos brings extensive expertise to the U.S. market.
Complementing the leadership team, Steve James joins as Head of Underwriting, bringing extensive industry credentials. His background includes over 30 years in the US surety industry, with significant experience in the Gulf Region, Texas, and Florida markets. Previously holding senior roles at UFG Insurance and FCCI, James brings deep regional knowledge and underwriting authority.
James articulated the company’s approach, stating they offer swift and efficient evaluation and underwriting services specifically designed for US contractors and businesses. The focus remains on supporting small and medium-sized contractors’ operational growth through strategic bond solutions.
Avla’s initial US product offerings will concentrate on two primary bond categories:
- Bid Bonds
- Performance Bonds
- Payment Bonds
2. Commercial Bonds
Andres Alamos reinforced this vision for expansion, highlighting the company’s successful performance in Mexico and Brazil as a foundation for their US market entry. The strategic goal remains consistent: empowering entrepreneurs and SMEs through specialized financial solutions.
By leveraging its Latin American experience and assembling a strong local team, Avla Insurance aims to differentiate itself in the competitive US surety market through personalized, efficient, and targeted service offerings.
