State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company
| Company type | Mutual insurance company |
|---|---|
| Industry | Insurance |
| Founded | September 16, 1921 in Columbus, Ohio, United States |
| Founder | Robert "Bob" Pein |
| Headquarters | Columbus , United States |
Area served | United States |
Key people | Kim Garland (President) |
| Products | Casualty insurance, property insurance |
Number of employees | 3 |
| Parent | Liberty Mutual (since 2022) |
State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company, commonly referred to as State Auto Mutual or simply State Auto,, is a U.S.-based insurance provider headquartered in Columbus, Ohio. Established in 1921, it holds the distinction of being Columbus's first casualty insurance company. In 2022, Liberty Mutual completed the acquisition of State Auto for an estimated $1 billion.
History
On September 16, 1921, Robert "Bob" Pein founded State Automobile Mutual Insurance Company with an initial capital of $30,000 borrowed and a team of three employees operating from 257 East Broad Street. Pein sought to disrupt the prevailing east-coast monopoly on automobile insurance, which he criticized for its excessive pricing and dependence on contractors instead of dedicated claims adjusters. The company moved to its present location at 518 East Broad Street in 1929.
Christmas Corner
Shortly after establishing its headquarters, Pein launched an elaborate Christmas display during the Great Depression as a gesture to uplift the Columbus community, calling it a "Christmas Card to the community." By 1962, a life-sized nativity scene was incorporated along with performances by local choirs. This tradition continued annually and adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic by integrating digital technology through a 3D camera initially developed for insurance inspections. In August 2023, the nativity scene was gifted to the Museum of Catholic Art and History and is scheduled for public exhibition on the grounds of St. Joseph Cathedral, located a few blocks west along Broad Street.
Present
Since its inception in 1921, State Auto has grown beyond casualty insurance to include property coverage as well. The company’s shares are listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol STFC. After being acquired by Liberty Mutual in 2022, Kim Garland was named president, ensuring continuity in strategic leadership.