Markel Ventures, Inc. ("Markel") announced today the acquisition of a majority interest in Cottrell, Inc. and affiliated entities ("Cottrell").  Headquartered in Gainesville, Georgia, Cottrell is a global leader in the design, manufacture and delivery of over-the-road automobile transport equipment. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Danny Zink, Cottrell's President and CEO, stated, "We wanted to find a partner that understood the way we do business and that would support us as we continue down the path we started on over 35 years ago. Markel is clearly that partner."

Thomas S. Gayner, President of Markel Ventures, added, "For 35 years Cottrell has found success by staying close to its customers and by responding rapidly to their needs.  Our approach allows Cottrell to continue doing exactly that as a permanent member of the Markel Ventures group of companies."