Reverse logistics is the process of moving products from customers back to a company for returns, repairs, recycling, or disposal — like the reverse of a delivery route when a returned package comes back to the warehouse. It matters to investors because efficient reverse logistics can cut costs, recover value from returned goods, reduce waste and regulatory risk, and protect brand reputation, all of which affect profitability and long-term cash flow.
circular economytechnical
A circular economy is a way of designing and using products so that materials are reused, repaired, or recycled rather than discarded as waste. It mimics natural systems where resources are continually reused, reducing environmental impact and conserving resources. For investors, it represents an opportunity to support sustainable businesses that focus on efficiency and long-term resource management.
extended warrantyfinancial
An extended warranty is an optional promise to repair, replace or cover certain costs for a product beyond the manufacturer's original guarantee, similar to buying insurance that kicks in after the basic protection ends. For investors, it matters because selling these contracts can create steady additional revenue, affect profit margins, and bring future obligations or repair costs that companies must reserve for — all of which influence cash flow and valuation.
AI-based technologiestechnical
Computer systems that use large amounts of data and adaptive programs to perform tasks that normally require human judgment, such as recognizing patterns, making predictions, or automating decisions. For investors, these technologies can change how companies cut costs, grow revenue or compete—like adding a very fast, ever-improving assistant—while also creating new risks from regulation, data quality, and implementation challenges that can affect profits and valuation.
device lifecycle managementtechnical
Device lifecycle management is the coordinated process of planning, building, launching, maintaining, updating and eventually retiring physical devices—including their software, parts, regulatory paperwork and customer support. It matters to investors because strong lifecycle management lowers costs and legal risk, extends revenue through upgrades and services, and keeps products competitive and safe—like tending a fleet so each vehicle runs longer, earns more and avoids costly breakdowns or fines.
asset recoverytechnical
Asset recovery is the process of locating, reclaiming and monetizing assets that a company or creditor can no longer use or that were lost, frozen, seized or written off—examples include repossessing equipment, collecting unpaid receivables, selling idle property, or recovering funds from bankrupt parties. It matters to investors because successful recovery turns hidden or stranded value into cash or reduced losses, much like finding and selling forgotten valuables in an attic to improve a household’s finances and overall return on investment.
centralised return centerstechnical
Centralised return centers are dedicated facilities where a company collects, inspects, repairs, repackages and restocks returned products instead of handling those tasks at many separate stores or warehouses. Like a single repair shop replacing dozens of neighborhood garages, they can cut processing costs, speed up resale or disposal, and make inventory and cash flow more predictable—factors that affect profitability and forecasts investors care about.
Formerly TIC Reverse Logistics, this strategic move strengthens Assurant’s post-purchase capabilities and advances circular economy solutions across Asia-Pacific markets
MELBOURNE, Australia--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
Assurant, Inc. (NYSE: AIZ), a premier global protection company that safeguards and services connected devices, homes, and automobiles in partnership with the world’s leading brands, today announced its acquisition of RL Circular Operations and related subsidiaries, a reverse logistics division of TIC Group widely recognised as the leading post-purchase workflow and reverse logistics service provider for retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers in Australia and New Zealand. This strategic move reinforces Assurant’s commitment to shaping the future of post-purchase experiences and leverage AI-based technologies that drive sustainable practices in retail and device lifecycle management programs in the region.
“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,” said Biju Nair, EVP and President, Global Connected Living at Assurant. “The addition of RL Circular Operations aligns with our strategy to lead post-sales services across APAC, and their strong regional presence and operational expertise make them an ideal partner. 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.”
Hemaka Perera, APAC President at Assurant, added, “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 – two priority APAC markets – and expands our extended warranty and mobile value chain capabilities.”
Founded in 1989, TIC Group operates across three core business lines: post-purchase customer experience, centralised return centers, and asset recovery, with offices in Melbourne, Auckland, Mumbai, and Gurgaon. Assurant’s acquisition of RL Circular Operations, formerly TIC Reverse Logistics, expands Assurant’s ability to deliver end-to-end device lifecycle management, optimizing the value of devices for clients and enhancing sustainability, while also reducing reliance on third-party logistics partners.
“We are confident this partnership will unlock new opportunities for our team and our customers,” said Sanjay Sehgal, Managing Director, RL Circular Operations. “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.”
About Assurant
Assurant, Inc. (NYSE: AIZ) is a premier global protection company that partners with the world’s leading brands to safeguard and service connected devices, homes, and automobiles. As a Fortune 500 company operating in 21 countries, Assurant leverages data-driven technology solutions to provide exceptional customer experience.
