US information technology giant Automated Data Processing is seeking to buy Audatex estimating systems from its insurance industry parent company Swiss Re. ADP's $4 billion computer services empire has four divisions, from payroll provision to dealer systems and insurance claims solutions.

The latter is the fastest-growing division, providing estimates for six million claims annually for 250 insurance companies and 7,000 bodyshops. Although ADP operates a similar service to Audatex in the USA, there is no overlap with Audatex's predominantly European operations. ADP said it had no plans to make organisational changes or cut jobs. Swiss Re said the proposed disposal was in line with its strategy of focusing on reinsurance business.