Great-West CEO mulls bringing firm’s three units under one brand

Winnipeg-based Great-West Life Assurance Co. of Canada (GWL) is marking its 125th anniversary.

The insurance company, now a subsidiary of Great-West Lifeco Inc., was founded in Winnipeg on Aug. 28, 1891, according to an announcement released Monday. The firm and its subsidiaries, London, Ont.-based London Life Insurance Co. and Toronto-based Canada Life Assurance Co., now serve the financial needs of more than 12 million clients across Canada.

GWL is marking the occasion by noting some company highlights in the release:

> The firm employs more than 12,000 people and has more than 27,000 distribution associates in Canada.

> It has provided more than $800 million in annuity payments to help Canadians fund their retirement.

> GWL has supported more than 900 community projects across Canada, with contributions totalling $12.1 million, to address issues such as literacy and essential skills training, health and wellness, and needs such as food and housing.

“Over these many decades, individuals, families, businesses and organizations have been able to count on us to deliver on the promises we make,” says Paul Mahon, president and CEO of Great-West Lifeco and GWL, in a statement. “One constant through those years is the dedication, skill and energy of our employees and distribution associates and their commitment to helping our customers achieve financial security and well-being.”

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