Markerstudy Group https://www.markerstudy.com Fri, 25 July 2025 00:00:00 Fri, 25 July 2025 00:00:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2025/july/25/important-safety-notice-citroën-stop-drive-order We would like to make you aware of a critical safety issue that may affect your vehicle. Stellantis UK has announced a ‘stop drive’ order that requires urgent attention from affected owners. Please read the information below carefully to understand what vehicles are impacted and what steps you need to take. What’s happened? Stellantis UK has issued a ‘stop drive’ order for the following vehicles: Citroën C3 second-generation models made between 2009 and 2016. Citroën DS 3 models made between 2009 and 2016. DS Automobiles DS 3 models made between 2016 and 2019. What does ‘stop drive’ mean? Anyone who owns one of these vehicles must stop driving it as soon as it is safe to do so. What should you do? Do not drive the vehicle - If your vehicle is listed above, you must stop driving it immediately. Check with the manufacturer -If you are unsure whether this order affects you, you should check the manufacturer’s website or contact them directly. Citroen: https://www.citroen.co.uk/maintain/safety-recall-check.html DS Automobiles: https://www.dsautomobiles.co.uk/owners/my-ds/recall-campaigns/recall-campaigns.html Discuss next steps - If your vehicle is affected, you must speak to the manufacturer to find out how to get the vehicle to them safely for inspection or repair. Follow manufacturer advice - This is for your own safety and the safety of other road users. How does this affect your policy? Vehicles must be roadworthy and safe to drive. A condition of your policy is that vehicles must be roadworthy and safe to drive. If your vehicle is affected by this stop drive notice, it’s considered not safe to drive. It should not be driven until the vehicle has been repaired. You are still covered for fire and theft. If the vehicle is damaged whilst parked or involved in a theft or fire, this is still covered under the policy conditions. Your safety and other road users. If you choose to drive your unsafe vehicle and an incident occurs, our Claims Team will assess the claim on a case-by-case basis. We urge you to consider your own safety and also the safety of other road users. Please note, driving a vehicle that is in a dangerous condition could lead to a fine of up to £2,500 or even a driving ban. If you have any questions, please contact the insurance provider you purchased your policy from. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2025/july/25/important-safety-notice-citroën-stop-drive-order https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2025/july/25/important-safety-notice-citroën-stop-drive-order Fri, 25 July 2025 00:00:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/july/29/markerstudy-group-to-acquire-hughes-insurance Markerstudy Group has announced plans to acquire Hughes Insurance, subject to regulatory approvals and customary conditions. With the brokers’ strong presence in Northern Ireland, the move is a sign of Markerstudy’s commitment to the region. Established nearly 50 years ago, Hughes Insurance looks over 85,000 customers across the motor, home, van, travel and commercial insurance sector and is set to join the Markerstudy Distribution division. Kevin Spencer, Markerstudy Group Chief Executive, comments: “Markerstudy and Hughes Insurance have traded together for many years and worked closely on numerous initiatives. We’re committed to the Northern Ireland market and are looking forward to welcoming their team and supporting their aspirations to deliver growth and innovation to enhance their customer offering.” Comment from Bernie McHugh Sonner, Hughes Insurance Acting CEO “Joining the Markerstudy Group marks a new and exciting chapter for Hughes Insurance and our valued customers. This acquisition will not only strengthen our capabilities but also enhance our ability to provide innovative, competitive and comprehensive insurance solutions. I look forward to the future with confidence and enthusiasm, knowing that this collaboration will drive growth and innovation for Hughes Insurance.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/july/29/markerstudy-group-to-acquire-hughes-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/july/29/markerstudy-group-to-acquire-hughes-insurance Mon, 29 July 2024 15:26:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/june/03/markerstudy-and-atlanta-merger-approved Markerstudy Group (“Markerstudy”) has announced that the merger between Markerstudy and Atlanta, the personal lines broking business of The Ardonagh Group was approved by the FCA (Friday 31 May), following the CMA’s clearance on 26 March 2024, six months after the proposed merger was announced in September 2023. On completion, the combined business, known as Markerstudy,   will provide multiple insurance products to millions of consumers, including home and motor insurance, and will employ around 7,000 people across the UK. It will transact over £3 billion in annual Gross Written Premium (GWP) and is backed by Pollen Street Capital. Kevin Spencer, Chief Executive of Markerstudy, comments: “This is a momentous milestone in Markerstudy’s history and one that I’m truly proud of. The opportunities ahead are exciting as we soon welcome over 2,000 colleagues from Atlanta. Our focus for the coming months will be on integration, alongside harnessing the skills, capabilities and experience of our combined Groups to enhance our customer proposition, whilst delivering good customer outcomes and creating significant growth potential.”  A party related to Ardonagh will retain a substantial minority equity stake in the combined business. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/june/03/markerstudy-and-atlanta-merger-approved https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/june/03/markerstudy-and-atlanta-merger-approved Mon, 03 June 2024 10:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/april/15/markerstudy-collaborates-with-suppliers-via-new-sustainable-supply-chain-charter Group seeking to improve sustainability outcomes and share best practice Markerstudy has invited its suppliers to sign its new Sustainable Supply Chain Charter to demonstrate their commitment to the Group’s sustainability objectives. The charter represents the first part of Markerstudy’s Sustainable Supply Chain Programme, which seeks to align the organisation with its supply chain in a spirit of cooperation and support.  Markerstudy will benchmark suppliers via third-party assessments or audits and then collaborate with them to improve performance and share best practice. Commenting on the significance of the charter, Lizzie Smith-Foreman, Markerstudy’s director of group marketing, communications and sustainability, said: “Sustainability is a journey, and it’s clear that we’ll only achieve our business goals if we invite our value chain along with us. We intend to work closely with all of our supply chain partners to help us achieve our sustainability goals and create shared value. “If suppliers can offer us solutions that are more sustainable than our current options, we look forward to working with them to bring those ideas to market. Equally, we’d like to engage with any suppliers needing assistance and support them in overcoming those challenges.” The charter requires Markerstudy’s suppliers to make commitments in three separate areas, which each feature three subdivisions: Our Planet (Climate Protection, Biodiversity and Responsible Consumption), Our People (Social Inclusion & Wellbeing, Empowered Communities and Development & Opportunities) and Our Responsibility (Ethical Business Practice, Transparent Reporting and Supply Chain Management). Markerstudy’s sustainability performance was recently recognised at the 2024 National Insurance Awards , where it took home the ESG Award. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/april/15/markerstudy-collaborates-with-suppliers-via-new-sustainable-supply-chain-charter https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2024/april/15/markerstudy-collaborates-with-suppliers-via-new-sustainable-supply-chain-charter Mon, 15 April 2024 16:43:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-welcome-three-new-neds-to-the-group Markerstudy announce the appointment of John Castagno, Ellie Barlow and Steve Maddock as Non-Executive Directors (NED). They are joining at a pivotal and exciting time in the group’s growth which has included the recent announcement of the proposed merger with Atlanta, Ardonagh’s personal lines broking business. John is an experienced NED with a demonstrated history of working in the insurance, technology, and services industry. He has enjoyed an illustrious career in the insurance industry spanning over 45 years which has included key leadership positions at several notable companies such as Legal & General, The Equity Group, Hastings Direct, British Gas and latterly Post Office Insurance. Ellie’s experience lies in the Retail Financial Services market where she is an accomplished NED. Ellie’s formative career was in retail banking and she has an extensive background in senior executive roles for global insurers and price comparison brands such as Compare The Market, Money Supermarket and Zurich Insurance.   Steve has an impressive 30 year insurance career which has included roles at Capita, RSA and Direct Line Group, where he was the Chief Operating Officer for twelve years, as well as a seven year spell as Chair of the Motor Insurers Bureau. Steve’s NED experience lies in the technology, digital transformation, cyber security sectors, Operations and Claims. Kevin Spencer, Chief Executive at Markerstudy Group , comments: “I’d like to extend a warm welcome to John, Ellie and Steve. Their combined breadth of knowledge and experience will be an asset to our group and our boards, and will support our objectives going forward.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-welcome-three-new-neds-to-the-group https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-welcome-three-new-neds-to-the-group Thu, 21 December 2023 11:09:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-appoints-director-of-group-sales-business-development Joe Barnard fills newly created position to drive Group’s growth Markerstudy Group has appointed Joe Barnard as Director of Group Sales & Business Development in a newly created role. Joe, formerly division head of Lloyd’s and London market at Clegg Gifford, is tasked with establishing synergies between Group brands and conducting strategic planning. He will be developing current relationships with brokers, key clients and partners, as well as ensuring new opportunities are maximised to drive new income. Commenting on the appointment, Chief Executive Kevin Spencer said: “I would like to congratulate Joe on his new role. Within a diverse Group, it’s critical we maximise the potential of the combined organisation. Working with our partners to cultivate mutually beneficial relationships is a key area for us, alongside ensuring the new products we bring to market continue to fulfil customer needs.” “I’m really excited by the opportunity to help shape the Group’s sales strategy and drive its development,” said Joe. “My initial focus will be to increase the coordination between our brands and bring an holistic offer to market.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-appoints-director-of-group-sales-business-development https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-appoints-director-of-group-sales-business-development Thu, 21 December 2023 10:50:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-colleague-sets-off-on-fifth-charitable-mission-to-ukraine “ You only live once. I want to make a difference, I guess,” says dad of three John Green, Legacy Portfolio Claims Manager at Clegg Gifford, part of Markerstudy Group, will be setting off on his fifth charitable expedition to Ukraine in early November to deliver food and clothing supplies to refugees affected by the ongoing conflict. John will depart with seven friends and colleagues: John Gibson of Kennedys, Gary Mason of Progress Vehicle Management, Tony Allen of Insenture Underwriting, Ben Robertson of Robertson & Co, Patrick McCarthy of Horwich Farrelly, Adrian Gilbert of SX3 and Nick Hilton of Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited. Together they will deliver four ambulances and much needed clothing, food and supplies to Saint Nicholas Children’s Hospital in Lviv. The first ambulance has been funded by donations from Clegg Gifford, Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited and Kennedys, and Clegg Gifford has provided insurance cover for all four vehicles. UK non-profit organisation Casus Pax, which provides aid to the areas worst affected by the Ukrainian conflict, will fill one of the ambulances with £20,000 of medical supplies. John will deliver that vehicle to Casus Pax in Lviv, who will take it to the front line. “In the past two years we’ve driven more than 10,000 miles and distributed over £100,000 of supplies in the process, but I still wanted to do more,” explained John. “The support we’ve received once again has been overwhelming and really drives us to complete the mission. “I’ve got three kids, so they panic every time I go away. But they do understand the bigger picture. My wife’s not overly happy about it, although she's very supportive. But you only live once. I want to make a difference, I guess.” As if he wasn’t busy enough, the contacts John has made through his efforts to help the people of Ukraine have secured him £45,000 in funding from Robertson & Co. This money will be used to add playgrounds to three schools in Africa, via Tony Allen’s  African Revival  charity, after it was noted that playgrounds tend to encourage higher attendance levels. To support John’s next trip to Ukraine, please visit the following URL: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/john-green-615 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-colleague-sets-off-on-fifth-charitable-mission-to-ukraine https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/21/markerstudy-colleague-sets-off-on-fifth-charitable-mission-to-ukraine Thu, 21 December 2023 10:16:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/19/mgaa-bolsters-board-with-senior-markerstudy-appointment The Director of Group Marketing, Communications and Sustainability for the Markerstudy Group, Lizzie Smith-Foreman, has been elected to join the board of the Managing General Agents’ Association (MGAA). Lizzie has over 20 years’ marketing experience within the insurance industry and prior to joining the Markerstudy Group, which includes the UK’s largest MGA, Markerstudy Insurance Services, in 2010, she was Marketing Brand Manager at mutual insurer Groupama. In 2021, in addition to her role as Director of Group Marketing and Communications, Lizzie took on responsibility for sustainability across the entire Markerstudy Group. Lizzie brings valuable expertise to the MGAA’s board. In particular she has broad experience in  helping organisations across the insurance market achieve commercial growth through targeted marketing and awareness-raising campaigns to key stakeholders. She joins existing board members Charles Manchester, MGAA Chairman, Mike Keating, CEO, Jonathan Skinner of Jensten Group, Jeff Turner of Miramar Underwriting, David Coupe at DYC Insurelaw Consultants, Keith Stern of Lloyd’s, Marco Del Carlo from XS Assure, Lyndsey Thompson of IIGL, Chris Harman of Resolution Underwriting, Sharon Brown from Nutshell Consultancy and Jade Wilcox of HDI Global Specialty SE.   Mike Keating, CEO, MGAA commented on the appointment: “Lizzie has significant experience in marketing across the insurance industry, helping a range of organisations reach the audiences that matter most to them. “Working alongside the largest MGA in the UK at Markerstudy, Lizzie’s understanding of the communications challenges facing the MGA landscape will be invaluable as we continue to grow our membership and develop and shape our offering for existing and future members.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/19/mgaa-bolsters-board-with-senior-markerstudy-appointment https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/december/19/mgaa-bolsters-board-with-senior-markerstudy-appointment Tue, 19 December 2023 14:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/september/15/ardonagh-and-markerstudy-to-create-a-major-personal-lines-player-with-over-£3-billion-in-annual-premiums Markerstudy and Ardonagh’s personal lines broking business Atlanta will merge to create a major new platform transacting over £3 billion annual GWP across multiple insurance products in the competitive UK insurance market The enlarged group will combine complementary capabilities across underwriting and distribution to offer an enhanced proposition for the benefit of millions of customers The transaction values Atlanta at £1.2 billion The Ardonagh Group (“Ardonagh”) and Markerstudy Group (“Markerstudy”) have agreed a merger between Markerstudy and Atlanta Group (“Atlanta”), Ardonagh’s personal lines broking business, to create a major new player in the UK insurance market. The combined business will provide a wide range of insurance products to millions of consumers, including home and motor insurance, and will employ around 7,300 people across the UK. It will transact over £3 billion in annual Gross Written Premium (GWP). The transaction, which is subject to customary conditions (including regulatory approvals), values Atlanta at £1.2 billion and will be funded by a new investment led by Pollen Street Capital and Bain Capital Special Situations.  Ardonagh and its related parties will receive a combination of cash and a substantial minority equity stake in the combined business, in addition to two seats on the board of directors of the combined business. Key Atlanta executives including Ian Donaldson, Craig Ball and Emma Rawlinson will join the Markerstudy management team as senior executives of the combined group. With more than 2,100 colleagues across 12 locations, Atlanta manages c.£1 billion of GWP on behalf of 2.6 million customers. It distributes a broad suite of products through household insurance brands including Swinton, van specialist Autonet and motorcycle experts Carole Nash. Markerstudy offers omni-channel distribution and a broad product proposition to approximately 6 million customers across motor, pet, home and commercial (particularly SME). The company has upwards of 5,200 colleagues, across 19 sites, and reported GWP of £2 billion in 2022. The combined group will bring together highly complementary capabilities across pricing, underwriting and distribution and as a result will deliver an enhanced proposition for millions of new and existing customers.                                                                                                           Kevin Spencer, Markerstudy Group CEO , said : “As existing business partners, we have worked closely with Atlanta for a long time, and so we know first-hand just how exceptional the business and its people are. There are few deals in the market with the potential to be truly transformational for all parties concerned and a combination with Atlanta has been a long-term ambition of ours.  The strong alignment in our models and shared values and ambitions simply could not be ignored. I’ve never been more excited for the future.” Ian Donaldson, CEO of Ardonagh Retail , comments:  "The coming together of well-known insurance brands and talent from across Atlanta and Markerstudy creates a major new player in the UK insurance industry and is the latest chapter in our phenomenal growth story. With the support and backing of the Ardonagh Group, Atlanta has evolved from the van broker Autonet, into a major multi-product, multi-brand insurance challenger in the UK. This transaction is a huge testament to our people and we look forward to working with Kevin and his team to continue innovating and providing great value to our customers.” David Ross, CEO of The Ardonagh Group , said:  "The Ardonagh strategy has always been to find and empower strong management teams, and to back their ambitions with a clear and relentless focus on equity value creation. This combination with Markerstudy is an important step in the Atlanta journey, and presents compelling opportunities for its customers and people. We are very proud of what the Atlanta team have achieved since joining our Group in 2017 and look forward to continuing to work with Kevin, Ian and our new partners at Pollen Street to create a major new player in the UK insurance market.” Michael England, partner at Pollen Street ,  said : “We are thrilled to support this merger. Under Ian’s leadership Atlanta has expanded through organic growth initiatives and targeted M&A into a high quality distribution platform. Similarly Markerstudy has developed rapidly, growing strongly since we invested in 2021. In combining the two businesses we have an exceptional opportunity to support this major new platform.”   Fenchurch Advisory Partners is acting as exclusive financial adviser to The Ardonagh Group on this transaction. Continuum Advisory Partners is acting as exclusive financial adviser to Markerstudy and Pollen Street Capital on this transaction. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom  (UK) LLP acted as advisers to the founders of Markerstudy on this transaction. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/september/15/ardonagh-and-markerstudy-to-create-a-major-personal-lines-player-with-over-£3-billion-in-annual-premiums https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/september/15/ardonagh-and-markerstudy-to-create-a-major-personal-lines-player-with-over-£3-billion-in-annual-premiums Fri, 15 September 2023 12:42:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/august/07/base-camp-from-amanda-fox What a first half of the year 2023 has been! The highlight for me was attending BIBA.  Being able to meet up in person with the great and the good of the insurance market is always a pleasure. As usual the Markerstudy stand stood out from the crowd and created a great talking point. However, unsur prisingly the main topic of conversation centred around Consumer Duty and how to deliver the best outcomes for customers. And that brings me nicely on to another exciting piece of news, my new job role. As many of you will know, I am passionate about putting customers and brokers at the centre of everything we do. I have been integral in embedding the new Consumer Duty principle within MISL and the wider Group and in June I was given the opportunity to take on the newly created role as the Chief Customer Officer. This reinforces our commitment to the customer, ensuring good customer outcomes are at the heart of all business decisions. In my new role I will oversee three core areas: Customer Outcomes, Product Governance and Broker Management. Please be assured, as well as customers, brokers are still at the heart of our business and a top priority for myself and my team. My focus will be on meeting the needs of our customers and brokers. I look forward to establishing new journeys and ways of working to enhance our offering both to you and your customers. Here’s to a successful H2 and hopefully better weather for those staying at home this Summer. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/august/07/base-camp-from-amanda-fox https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/august/07/base-camp-from-amanda-fox Mon, 07 August 2023 15:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/august/07/birds-eye-view-from-gary-humphreys The date of 31 st  July has been haunting the industry for the past 12 months and as of seven days ago, Consumer Duty is now live. I’m immensely proud of the teams involved in meeting this deadline, but it has been no mean feat, absorbing thousands of hours of resource from across our group.  In preparation for the start of 2023, we rewrote our operating strategy and in doing so we had to make some really tough decisions in order to satisfy the FCA’s requirements.  As an example, we wrote more than 70 products each requiring a product review, fair value assessment and consumer duty overview. Going forwards, this was an impossible task – so products have been reviewed and some have had to be discontinued. Our new criteria sees us working with a smaller number of Strategic Partners who are aligned in their desire for a mutually beneficial partnership for growth, efficiency and performance; these partners all have the common goal of putting the customer first. It’s greatly saddened me that some longstanding accounts have fallen casualty to our new operating model, but we’ve responded to the theoretical questions posed by the FCA, relating to our obligations, ensuring we are ready and able to achieve better outcomes for our 6m+ customers. I am pleased to confirm the purchase of Tradex has now completed and, as a result, we will be starting the process of moving some of our products across to Tradex capacity. You'll receive a communication shortly about the specific products and dates for the changeover. At the beginning of July, we were sponsors and supporters of the MGAA’s annual Conference and Exhibition at Old Billingsgate, London. The new venue hosted just over 1,000 delegates, which is their highest record to date. If you enjoyed the ‘community in action’ bee theme, it was the work of our internal design team.  Bees, and the environment, are on our agenda, too, as you’ll see in the article below! Turning my attention to H2, we’re preparing a supply chain charter and will be launching a value chain pilot in partnership with CRIF Synesgy. Watch this space, as there’ll be lots more for me to share on how we are working towards our sustainability goals. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/august/07/birds-eye-view-from-gary-humphreys https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/august/07/birds-eye-view-from-gary-humphreys Mon, 07 August 2023 15:23:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/july/04/markerstudy-announce-amanda-fox-as-new-chief-customer-officer Markerstudy is pleased to announce the appointment of Amanda Fox as Chief Customer Officer. Reporting to Gary Humphreys, Group Chief Underwriting Officer, the newly created position reinforces Markerstudy’s commitment to the customer and ensuring good customer outcomes are at the heart of all business decisions. Amanda joined Markerstudy in 2020. In her new role she will oversee three core areas: Customer Outcomes, Product Governance and Broker Management, leading her 30 strong team with responsibility for all customer touch points, alongside ensuring products and services being offered are fair value. Amanda Fox comments: “I’m truly excited by the opportunities and challenges that this new role will bring. Focusing on meeting the needs of our customers and broker partners will continue to be the number one priority for us and I look forward to establishing new journeys and ways of working to enhance our offering to both.” Gary Humphreys adds “Amanda is one of my key executive team and has shown passion, resilience and determination throughout her career at Markerstudy and we would like to congratulate her on her promotion. Amanda has worked consistently to improve relationships with partners and we look forward to seeing her translate her considerable skills to enhancing our customer propositions too.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/july/04/markerstudy-announce-amanda-fox-as-new-chief-customer-officer https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/july/04/markerstudy-announce-amanda-fox-as-new-chief-customer-officer Tue, 04 July 2023 08:34:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/june/15/lord-theodore-agnew-joins-markerstudy-holdings-as-non-executive-director Markerstudy announces the NED appointment of Lord Theodore Agnew where he is expected to perform a significant role on the board overseeing claims. In a career spanning 35 years, in both the private and public sector, Lord Agnew holds a number of advisory positions, is a Member of the House of Lord’s Industry and Regulators committee and Trustee of the National Institute of Teaching. At the start of his illustrious career, he founded WNS Services Ltd, a claims management and third party administrator to the insurance sector, which he sold to Warburg Pincus. In 2004 he became CEO of Lloyd’s MGA Jubilee Insurance and affiliated businesses, a start-up venture with syndicates covering motor, life and specialty classes which was acquired by Aon Group in 2010.  Between 2010 and 2017 he took Board and advisory positions in Government including the Lead NED at the Ministry of Justice, Chairman of the Academies board in the Department for Education (DfE) and NED at the DfE.   In 2012, Lord Agnew founded the Inspiration Trust, an academy trust which now includes 16 schools and 10,000 pupils across East Anglia. In 2015 he was Knighted for his services to education. In 2017, his passion to reform the UK’s education system led to him accepting the post of Lord’s minister in the Department of Education. In 2020, he was appointed Minister of State across The Treasury and Cabinet Office. Kevin Spencer, Group Chief Executive of Markerstudy, said: “I warmly welcome Theodore to Markerstudy. We’ve known each other for many years and he is a man of integrity and honour. His experience of business and governance is exemplary. He will be a stimulating addition to our board and his input is much anticipated.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/june/15/lord-theodore-agnew-joins-markerstudy-holdings-as-non-executive-director https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/june/15/lord-theodore-agnew-joins-markerstudy-holdings-as-non-executive-director Thu, 15 June 2023 13:47:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/february/21/gary-humphreys-bird’s-eye-view Some of you may recall the launch of Markerstudy’s Coat of Arms, way back in 2016.    You’ll see it features three dynamic creatures that characterise Markerstudy’s zest for life; an eagle, a fox and a shark. In our new-look e-zine, I’ll be giving you my bird’s eye view of the industry, as I interpret it. Quite by coincidence, we now have a real-life Fox heading up the Broker Management and Product Governance team. Down at ground level, in her new ‘ Base Camp ’ feature, Amanda Fox reinforces our strategy to focus on profitable accounts that deliver good customer outcomes. It takes courage and strength to change tactic, and this is what Markerstudy is doing.  “To improve is to change; to be perfect is to change often”  (Winston Churchill). There’s no secret that we’re identifying strategic partners who are seeking a mutually beneficial partnership for growth, efficiency and performance. And, equally, there’s no truth behind the grinding rumour-mill that we’ve lost capacity. Reviewing our product lines is all part of our Go-Forward strategy, and there’s no story behind switching off those that are no longer profitable. It’s not good news for everyone, admittedly, and I apologise for this, but the breadth of our business means we can offer solutions from other businesses within our organisation – Clegg Gifford for MotorTrade, for example. In another example of recent change, you may have seen the announcement that Peter Thompson is stepping down from the position of Chief Executive Officer at BGL Insurance?  We acquired BGLi last year and Peter has played a pivotal role in integrating it into the broader group. We wish him the very best for the future.   As mentioned by Kevin Spencer, the market is continuing to consolidate and we’re optimistic that Markerstudy will be a major player in the process during the next phase. And, if you were wondering about the shark, we have a continued appetite for acquisitions, where they align to our strategic intent! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/february/21/gary-humphreys-bird’s-eye-view https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/february/21/gary-humphreys-bird’s-eye-view Tue, 21 February 2023 10:40:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/february/10/base-camp-with-amanda-fox It’s been a busy start to the year for us at Markerstudy but one element that drives us all is ensuring we continue to provide the best possible service for our partners and customers. As many of you know, we’ve recently undertaken a thorough review of our product strategy and this year, we will be focusing on profitable accounts that deliver good customer outcomes.  Whilst we no longer provide MotorTrade cover, this was always in our long-term plans to move the book of business across once the purchase of Tradex and Clegg Gifford has completed. We are still waiting on regulatory approval but Toby Clegg and the team will gladly provide expert guidance if you are still looking to place business. The Clegg Gifford team can be contacted on  Sales@cginsurance.com We’ve also continued the charge to stamp out fraud in our industry as we held the second webinar in our series ‘All About Fraud’. Clare Lunn, our head of fraud, and I discussed Ghost Broking and the consequences this activity can have on not just businesses but our customers as well. It was fantastic to see so many people join us and get involved in the conversation, it’s certainly a hot topic, and we’re already looking forward to the next instalment! As we head further into Q1, the team and I are looking forward to getting out and seeing as many of you as possible. You can find out where we’ll be exhibiting, below, and we hope to see you soon!    BIBA We’re delighted to announce that once again we will be sponsoring BIBA 2023 on 10th - 11th May.   The Marketing team is working hard to make sure we stand out from the crowd, so make sure you come and see us at stand E50 .   Our Broker Management Team and underwriters will be attending and if you’d like to arrange a meeting with them please get in touch with them directly or drop us an email . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/february/10/base-camp-with-amanda-fox https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/february/10/base-camp-with-amanda-fox Fri, 10 February 2023 14:09:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/27/ghost-broking-webinar On Wednesday 25 th January, we hosted a Ghost Broking webinar with Clare Lunn, Head of Fraud and Amanda Fox, Head of Broker Management & Product Governance - thank you to everyone who attended. The key topics included: How Ghost Brokers are a threat to our industry How fraudulent policies can be taken out Opportunity, Need and Risk What is the industry doing to address Ghost Broking How you can protect your business from Ghost Broking Ghost Broking webinar – 25.01.2023  from  Markerstudy  on  Vimeo .  Thank you for all the questions submitted, please CLICK HERE to view the answers. Congratulations to Emma Zhang, from  Miller Insurance , the lucky winner of the £200 Virgin Experience voucher. We’d like to hear from you… Please  CLICK HERE  to let us know what topics you would like our future webinars to be on. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/27/ghost-broking-webinar https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/27/ghost-broking-webinar Fri, 27 January 2023 15:47:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/26/markerstudy-appoints-andy-squires-head-of-household-underwriting Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited has announced the appointment of Andy Squires as head of household underwriting, reporting to Will James, head of technical underwriting. With a career in the insurance industry spanning over 30 years, Andy is a highly experienced executive with expertise across underwriting, pricing and distribution. Prior to joining Markerstudy, Andy was underwriting manager for Car Care Plan Insurance and has also held senior roles at RSA, Folgate, Towergate, Fortis/Ageas and Integra Insurance Solutions. Will James comments: “It’s great to be able to bring someone of Andy’s experience and calibre into the team at a time when demand for senior underwriters far outstrips supply in our industry. Our strategy is to nurture and develop our homegrown talent, and senior appointments such as Andy are hugely beneficial to our mentoring programmes.” Andy adds: “I am enjoying working alongside such an enthusiastic and talented underwriting team and also partnering with our pricing colleagues to ensure we continue to deliver market leading products. There is intense competition in the home insurance market, but we have an excellent suite of products and I’m confident that our proposition will benefit the broking community. Will painted a compelling picture of the opportunity at Markerstudy and I’m really looking forward to this next stage of my insurance career.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/26/markerstudy-appoints-andy-squires-head-of-household-underwriting https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/26/markerstudy-appoints-andy-squires-head-of-household-underwriting Thu, 26 January 2023 16:17:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/09/join-our-ghost-broking-lunchtime-webinar The Markerstudy Broker Management team are delighted to invite you to attend our upcoming webinar on  Wednesday 25 th  January at 12:30pm . Amanda Fox , Head of Broker Management & Product Governance will be joined by  Clare Lunn , Head of Fraud, to discuss Ghost Broking. The key topics in this webinar will include: How Ghost Brokers are a threat to our industry How fraudulent policies can be taken out Opportunity, Need and Risk What is the industry doing to address Ghost Broking How you can protect your business from Ghost Broking CLICK HERE TO REGISTER   ANY QUESTIONS? To ensure we cover everything you’d like to know about this topic please submit your questions in advance by clicking  HERE . REGISTER  and attend our webinar and you’ll be entered into a free prize draw to win  £200 Virgin Experience voucher ! We look forward to seeing you there. Have your say on our webinars.  CLICK HERE  to let us know what you’d like our future webinar topics to cover. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/09/join-our-ghost-broking-lunchtime-webinar https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2023/january/09/join-our-ghost-broking-lunchtime-webinar Mon, 09 January 2023 15:03:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/23/markerstudy,-talks-all-things-fraud-webinar On Thursday 22 nd September, we hosted a ‘Markerstudy, talks all things Fraud’ webinar and were thrilled with the number of attendees – thank you to everyone who attended.   The key topics covered in the webinar included: Current and emerging fraud threats Fraud innovation  What are we doing to help fraud prevention and detection?   Please  CLICK HERE  to view the video.   Congratulations to Graeme Mulvoy, from  HF , the lucky winner of the £250 Virgin Experience voucher.   We’d like to hear from you… Please  CLICK HERE  to let us know what topics you would like our future webinars to be on. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/23/markerstudy,-talks-all-things-fraud-webinar https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/23/markerstudy,-talks-all-things-fraud-webinar Fri, 23 September 2022 10:41:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/july/04/claims-apprentice-2022 We are so pleased to announce that Jordan Lewis is representing Markerstudy in the Claims Apprentice 2022 competition run by  Insurance Post . Jordan, a Claims Handler, is one of six finalists taking on a variety of team-based and individual tasks in London, judged by head sponsor  Kennedys ,  Christopher Dunn  where only one Apprentice will be declared the winner! Jordon has already completed three days of challenges and commented: “Firstly, I could not turn down the opportunity to expand my own knowledge and to get my name out into the insurance world. I mean, it’s not every day you get accepted onto something as fun and exciting as this. I love the experience so far, and would highly recommend the Claims Apprentice to anyone wanting to do something life-changing. It will really open your eyes to the adventure that the insurance industry can take you on. Finally, all I know is that I will represent my team leader Kelly Sandiford, my team and Markerstudy to the best of my ability.”  We wish Jordon the best of luck in the final!   Watch Episode 4 The final six claims apprentices are set for their biggest challenge yet for their third task. The two teams must devise a ‘sustainable claims’ solution which relates to an insurance company’s wider environmental, social and governance agenda. They will then film a short video to promote their solution but which team will pass the screen test with flying colours Watch Episode 3 Episode 3 of The Claims Apprentice - the shopping task! Can  Markerstudy Insurance 's  Jordan Lewis  and team make it back with all of the items without going over time? Watch episode three to find out.      Watch Episode 2 Now that the final six contestants in the Claims Apprentice 2022 have been put into teams and decided on names, it's time for the apprentices to tackle their first task! 'Devise a technical or procedural solution to enhance and/or improve the claimant’s customer journey - then pitch it!' Watch episode two now to discover how  Markerstudy Insurance 's very own Jordan Lewis got on with Team Unite.     Watch Episode 1 Jordan Lewis from the claims team at Markerstudy is through to the finals of the Claims Apprentice competition run by  Insurance Post . Jordon is one of six finalists all vying for the prize of becoming the 2022 champion. The candidates will need to impress Christopher Dunn of sponsor Kennedys’ who will declare only one candidate as the winner. Watch episode one to meet Jordan and the five other candidates and discover why he decided to take part in the Claims Apprentice 2022.    Written by  Charlie North https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/july/04/claims-apprentice-2022 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/july/04/claims-apprentice-2022 Mon, 04 July 2022 15:44:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/22/markerstudy-bolsters-fraud-credentials-with-key-new-hire Markerstudy is delighted to have welcomed Clare Lunn to the group, cementing its commitment to helping stamp out fraud within the industry.   Held in high regard amongst peers, Clare will be responsible for leading and developing Markerstudy’s fraud prevention strategy in her role as ‘Head of Fraud’. Reporting into Gary Hueting, Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited COO, Clare has already established a new Fraud Webinar series aimed at giving broker partners insights into what the industry and Markerstudy is focusing on. The first one is due to be held on 22 nd September 2022 and more info can be found here. Gary Hueting comments: “Having recently chaired the General Insurance Fraud Committee for over three years and with over 20 years’ experience in the industry, Clare is a true fraud prevention advocate. She has already been pivotal in making important changes as we continue to tackle new and emerging risks and we’re thrilled she is part of our future as we continue to fight fraud.” Clare adds: “I’m excited to have joined Markerstudy and be championing our fraud agenda. Threats are continuing to evolve, especially in the current economic climate, so it’s important we stay agile and ahead of the curve, to safeguard our business, industry and ultimately our customers.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/22/markerstudy-bolsters-fraud-credentials-with-key-new-hire https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/22/markerstudy-bolsters-fraud-credentials-with-key-new-hire Thu, 22 September 2022 13:54:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/22/markerstudy-insurance-services-limited-chooses-sas-to-help-drive-analytics-modernisation Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited has invested in technology from analytics leader SAS to support its strategy of profitable and sustainable growth. The SAS ® Viya ® platform on Azure , which runs on a modern, scalable architecture and is fully cloud native, will help support Markerstudy Insurance’s risk, underwriting, claims and complaints, as well as advance its data science capability. Markerstudy Insurance supports more than 1,000 broker partners and in excess of six million policyholders with a wide variety of insurance products. Migrating to the new platform will enable the company to harness the most advanced data science capabilities to help improve underwriting profitability, gross written premium and claims management. In the future the platform can provide opportunities to offer customer insight, optimised pricing, claims automation, fraud detection and investigation and risk management with real-time decisioning available for every business area, as well as enabling scaling on demand with each new acquisition, or organic growth, at short notice. “This solution enables us to ensure our systems use the latest technology and retain the flexibility to significantly support our workloads, while being confident this will also enhance our day-to-day operations and ensure compliance with industry regulations,” said Simon Hughes, Group Head of Data & Analytics at Markerstudy Group. “We can now achieve these aims via advanced analytics on a single cloud-native platform, which also gives us the future opportunity to quickly develop new initiatives in areas such as fraud and customer intelligence.” Roderick Crawford, VP & Country Manager, SAS UK & Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to be helping Markerstudy Insurance Services through the capability and scalability offered by SAS Cloud. Using advanced analytics and AI, our products lead to faster, better decision-making, and ensure models remain fair, accountable, transparent and explainable, so they can be continually optimised and remain compliant with regulations.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/22/markerstudy-insurance-services-limited-chooses-sas-to-help-drive-analytics-modernisation https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/september/22/markerstudy-insurance-services-limited-chooses-sas-to-help-drive-analytics-modernisation Thu, 22 September 2022 11:51:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/august/25/mike-wall-qa Number of years in the insurance industry? I have worked in the industry for over four decades, beginning my career at George W Yates, a traditional insurance brokerage,where I progressed to management and responsibility for insurer relations. In the mid-Nineties I joined Secure Trust Group PLC as Sales Manager and Insurer Relations before joining Fresh in 2002 as MD.   What attracted you to join Markerstudy at this point in your career? I’ve worked closely with Markerstudy for twenty years, and I know they have great people in the group and I understand the vibrancy, culture, ambitions and forward thinking nature of the business. Some people might wonder why I took this on at the age of 60, but having had some time out I know I’m not ready to stop, I’ve got more to do, and this was just too good an opportunity to miss.   What key experience are you bringing to Markerstudy Group? I think the key experience is growing businesses whilst supporting staff and managing external relationships.   What are your future plans or most important objective(s) for your new division? It’s been exciting to be able to build a new team and I think that’s vital for me, to deliver on our plan to create a niche department and also produce a profitable business in line with regulatory compliance.   What makes you tick at work? I’m a people person and really enjoy working as part of a team with a common goal.   What words of advice given to you most resonate – and do you share this with your team members? ‘If you don’t know, don’t be afraid to ask, no one knows everything.’   What do you enjoy most in your free time? I have a busy family life and love spending time with my wife, Sally, and my daughters, Carly and Isabelle, and not forgetting our working cocker spaniel, Charlie. I also enjoy watching sport and socialising. Written by  Charlie North https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/august/25/mike-wall-qa https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/august/25/mike-wall-qa Thu, 25 August 2022 15:17:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/july/12/markerstudy-group-partners-with-future-first-to-support-young-talent-and-boost-insurance-career-opportunities Markerstudy today announces a new partnership with education charity Future First, aimed at boosting career opportunities for young people within state education and giving them exclusive insight into the insurance industry.    The partnership will enable Markerstudy to offer state school and college students the support, advice and encouragement they need to consider a career in insurance services, and allow the business to connect with up-and-coming talent.    Using the Future First Hub, a social media-style platform which enables volunteers to safely communicate with students, and a range of face-to-face and virtual events, Markerstudy employees will use their skills, knowledge and experiences to guide young people from schools all over the country.   Future First is the only UK charity helping young people in state schools and colleges broaden their horizons by connecting them with relatable role models.     Tanya Gerrard-White, Chief People Officer at Markerstudy Group , said: "This new partnership enables us to provide support, guidance and mentoring to the next generation of school leavers. "Our industry needs to do all it can to support and attract new and diverse young talent, and Future First is uniquely positioned to help us do that. “There are myriad opportunities within insurance services and our associated businesses, and our  colleagues and apprentices from our ALEX (Aspire Learning Experience) programme are uniquely qualified to give insight to students and share their own experiences.”   Lorraine Langham, Future First CEO, added: “It’s so important that students from all backgrounds are supported and inspired to consider as many options as possible for the future.    “Being connected to companies such as Markerstudy and their employees often opens up a whole new world of opportunity for them.   “Many young people – particularly those from less privileged backgrounds – may never have considered a career in insurance services. The chance to meet and learn from someone who has gone on to succeed in the sector could inspire them to follow a similar path.”   Written by  Charlie North https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/july/12/markerstudy-group-partners-with-future-first-to-support-young-talent-and-boost-insurance-career-opportunities https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/july/12/markerstudy-group-partners-with-future-first-to-support-young-talent-and-boost-insurance-career-opportunities Tue, 12 July 2022 15:38:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/june/meeting-customer-needs-through-innovation-webinar On Thursday 16 th June, we hosted a ‘Meeting customer needs through innovation’ webinar and were thrilled with the number of attendees – thank you to everyone who attended.   The key topics covered in the webinar included: How we can help you meet your customers’ needs through innovation How you can use customer data to drive benefit for your customers What are we doing to help?   Please CLICK HERE to view the video.   We’d like to hear from you… Please CLICK HERE to let us know what topics you would like our future webinars to be on. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/june/meeting-customer-needs-through-innovation-webinar https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/june/meeting-customer-needs-through-innovation-webinar Fri, 17 June 2022 14:52:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/june/supply-chain-issues-affecting-the-motor-industry The automotive industry is currently facing the worst supply chain disruption in decades. The current issues affecting the market are having a knock-on effect on customers when it comes to making a claim. Read on to find out what we’re currently doing to help alleviate some of the pressure during the crisis. Over the previous two years the car market has been impacted by: Increased energy costs Decreased staffing levels of skilled technicians Delays in parts being manufactured/delivered Lack of available courtesy cars Lack of new car replacements We have also seen new rules imposed due to Brexit which have affected the import/export of goods. Covid-19 and subsequent lockdowns resulted in a drop in sales for new cars due to the temporary closure of manufacturing companies causing a shortage of new vehicles and car parts being produced. This has left many garages unable to obtain the necessary parts to carry out repairs, resulting in lengthy delays for some cars to be fixed, which has extended the claims process. Increased lead and cycle times have also inflated the cost of courtesy vehicles. Hire companies can't keep up with the demand, or acquire stock to increase their fleets, meaning customers are being left without transport. Some drivers have turned to the second hand car market as an alternative option. However, this peak in demand has led to a shortage for older cars and in turn increased prices for older models. The recent rising cost of fuel and energy is adding another challenge to our market. As manufacturers face higher energy costs, car makers will have no choice but to raise prices for new cars to maintain profits.     What are we doing to try and resolve these issues? Due to this ‘perfect storm’, we’re offering innovative solutions for non-fault third parties and seeking ways to speed up the resolution of claims.  One such option is ‘Cash Out’. Instead of supplying a hire vehicle, we are offering to make a payment to the third party in lieu of credit hire. This has proven popular with customers and allows them to make alternative arrangements to suit their needs. ‘Constructive’, ‘Fast Track’ and ‘Immediate Total Losses’ are some of the other initiatives that we are trialing to improve the current situation. Please be assured that we are committed to offering you and your customers the very best possible service. Contact us    If you have any questions, please do contact the broker management team at brokermanagement@markerstudy.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/june/supply-chain-issues-affecting-the-motor-industry https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/june/supply-chain-issues-affecting-the-motor-industry Wed, 01 June 2022 14:31:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/31/join-our-meeting-customer-needs-through-innovation-webinar Amanda Fox, Head of Broker Management & Product Governance and Steve Beard, Divisional Head of Private Car are delighted to host our upcoming breakfast webinar on Thursday 16 th June 2022 at 8:30am on ‘ Meeting customer needs through innovation ’ .   The key topics covered in the webinar included: How we can help you meet your customers’ needs through innovation How you can use customer data to drive benefit for your customers What are we doing to help? New propositions   REGISTER TO ATTEND WEBINAR ANY QUESTIONS? To ensure we cover everything you’d like to know about this topic please submit your questions in advance by clicking  HERE .   SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS Register  to attend our webinar and you’ll be entered into a free prize draw to win a luxurious Burlington Fortnum & Mason Treat hamper! We hope to see you there! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/31/join-our-meeting-customer-needs-through-innovation-webinar https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/31/join-our-meeting-customer-needs-through-innovation-webinar Tue, 31 May 2022 10:51:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-group-announce-completion-of-bgl-insurance-acquisition Markerstudy Group today announces completion of its purchase of BGL Insurance and starts to formulate plans for the integration of the two businesses. Regulatory approval for change of control was received in April, on the eve of Markerstudy’s 21 st  Anniversary. Kevin Spencer, CEO of Markerstudy Group, said: “I am delighted that we have now completed on the purchase of BGL Insurance.  This is an auspicious event in our history as we warmly welcome 1700 new colleagues to our group. Our partnership creates a business with more than 6 million customers and our complementary skills will enhance our customer proposition and create significant growth potential.  “Together, we have operational strength and leading digital distribution capabilities, alongside underwriting, product and insuretech prowess. We are all very excited by the opportunities ahead”. He said that the leadership teams of both businesses will now be working closely together to identify synergies and prepare for integration, opening the doors for new opportunities for colleagues to develop their careers. He said it was too early to say whether there will be any redundancies in the longer term – the focus is very much on the challenging agenda for the rest of this financial year and attention will remain firmly on the day job. Peter Thompson, CEO of BGL Insurance said “The complementary skills and capabilities within our businesses, combined with the strength of the Markerstudy Group, truly represents a unique opportunity to accelerate and increase our growth potential – something I am very excited about.” The BGL Insurance brand will be retained, and there are currently no anticipated changes to the three locations of Peterborough, Sunderland and Wakefield. Peter Thompson will continue in his role as CEO. Written by  Charlie North https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-group-announce-completion-of-bgl-insurance-acquisition https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-group-announce-completion-of-bgl-insurance-acquisition Fri, 27 May 2022 11:55:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-re-joins-biba-and-returns-to-conference Markerstudy is set to return to the BIBA Conference this year and has also re-joined the Association.  Gary Humphreys, Group Chief Underwriting Officer, said the time was right to once again become an active member of the Association. “We took a bit of a step back from broader industry activities to concentrate internally on our structure and strategy, and of course over the last couple of years the pandemic has had a great impact on everyone’s ability to fully engage in external events,” he said. “Now we’re very much ready to showcase our brands, catch up with old friends and new, and talk about what we’re up to – and the BIBA Conference is one of the best opportunities to do this in our industry.” Steve White, BIBA CEO said: “We welcome Markerstudy to BIBA. Having members on board that are specialists is really valuable in our work to enable greater access to insurance. “Markerstudy has exciting plans to develop their proposition for customers and we look forward to working with them.” Written by  Charlie North https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-re-joins-biba-and-returns-to-conference https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-re-joins-biba-and-returns-to-conference Fri, 27 May 2022 11:50:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-appoints-mike-wall-to-lead-new-drive-on-non-standard-insurance Markerstudy has announced the appointment of Mike Wall as its new head of non-standard insurance. Mike, former CEO of Fresh Insurance, is now building a team to develop Markerstudy’s non-standard home and motor offerings, including telematics insurance under the existing Smart Driver Club brand. “It’s great to have the opportunity to use what I’ve learned over more than 40 years in insurance as a blueprint to build something new and exciting for Markerstudy,” said Mike, who is now recruiting around 12 people to join his new team. “I have worked with Markerstudy for 20 years – I know they have great people and I understand the vibrancy and ambitions of their business, and I’m delighted to be able to be part of that. “Some people might wonder why I’m taking this on at the age of 60, but having had some time out I know I’m not ready to stop, I’ve got more to do, and this was just too good an opportunity to miss.” Mike will report to Markerstudy’s Group Chief Underwriting Officer Gary Humphreys, who said: “It’s great to bring Mike on board at such an exciting time in our company’s development. “We’ve set ourselves ambitious targets to make more of an impact in this market, and with Mike’s extensive experience and expertise I know he’ll be playing a key role in helping us achieve them.” On the motor side, the new division – based in Hall Green, Birmingham - will aim to offer telematics insurance for all ages, not just young drivers, and as a solution for drivers with convictions. It will also be looking at non-standard cover for high-profile personalities. Written by  Charlie North https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-appoints-mike-wall-to-lead-new-drive-on-non-standard-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/may/27/markerstudy-appoints-mike-wall-to-lead-new-drive-on-non-standard-insurance Fri, 27 May 2022 11:47:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/march/08/markerstudy-fight-against-fraud The industry detects over £1bn of fraudulent motor claims every year. In 2021 insurance services group, Markerstudy, defeated in the region of 2,500 fraudulent claims, saving over £25m. The Whiplash Reforms introduced by the government in May 2021 have played a part in discouraging fraudulent claims, and include a firm commitment to pass on savings to consumers. Following a recent successful case against an insurance fraudster, Allan Peak, Head of Claims Counter Fraud at Markerstudy, said: “New technology is providing irrefutable evidence. In this opportunistic claim, our agent took the insured’s FNOL call and completed a referral to our Counter Fraud team as he was concerned that the accident had occurred close to the time that the policy had been incepted. The policy had been incepted using the insurance app from Cuvva. The app revealed the exact time the insurance policy was incepted, at 00.39am, and from where, which turned out to be the scene of the accident. Information provided to us from the Metropolitan Police confirmed that the time of the accident was in fact 00.27am.  “The claimant was sentenced to three years imprisonment, reduced to two with discount for an early plea, for causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and two months for fraud by false representation, to run concurrently”.  Examples such as this are seen as a signpost for what the industry and government are doing together to combat motor insurance fraud. With the post-COVID return to normal and the rising cost of living, fraud is also expected to increase as it has in previous economic downturns. Data collected by apps such as Cuvva include GPS location data, which is instrumental in fraud detection, but other technologies are just as useful. Dash-cams, in particular, are helping to determine liability, occupancy and whether a road traffic incident is a ‘crash-for-cash’, which is pivotal in the detection and prevention of crime. Written by  Charlie North https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/march/08/markerstudy-fight-against-fraud https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/march/08/markerstudy-fight-against-fraud Tue, 08 March 2022 00:00:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/january/markerstudy-group-acquire-bgl-insurance Markerstudy has announced the acquisition of BGL Insurance (BGLi) from BGL Group, a leading digital distributor of insurance and household financial services, subject to regulatory approval.   Kevin Spencer, Group CEO of Markerstudy, said “As a leading distributor in the market, taking ownership of BGLi provides us with a unique opportunity to further accelerate and increase our growth potential. We have enjoyed a long and fruitful partnership with BGL Group, and this has strengthened in recent years with BGLi acting as an outsource partner to a number of Markerstudy brands. This is a fantastic springboard into 2022.”   Peter Thompson, CEO of BGL Insurance, said: “We are excited to become part of the Markerstudy Group . The partnership is a natural evolution for BGLi and brings together our leading digital distribution capabilities with the innovative underwriting capabilities of Markerstudy. The combination creates a business with close to 6 million customers and our complementary skills will enhance our customer proposition.”   Michael England, partner at Pollen Street, said: “We are hugely excited to announce this combination as BGLi’s digital and data capabilities are second to none and accelerate many aspects of Markerstudy’s digital agenda.  Together BGLi and Markerstudy are one of the fastest growing players in UK general insurance.”   Markerstudy was advised by KBW, Slaughter and May, and Oliver Wyman. BGL Group was advised by Fenchurch Advisory Partners and Dentons. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/january/markerstudy-group-acquire-bgl-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2022/january/markerstudy-group-acquire-bgl-insurance Tue, 04 January 2022 09:19:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/24/markerstudy-has-announced-its-acquisition-of-lloyd’s-broker-clegg-gifford,-subject-to-regulatory-approval Markerstudy has announced its acquisition of Lloyd’s broker Clegg Gifford, subject to regulatory approval. Formed in 1968 as a general insurance broker, Clegg Gifford later evolved into a Lloyd’s broker and specialist in the UK motor trade market segments. Recently crowned ‘Independent broker of the year’ at the Insurance Times Awards, the deal will see one of the UK’s largest family-owned independent brokers join Markerstudy, a digitally-led insurance group that manages £1.2bn GWP and provides specialist and mainstream insurance products to three million customers. Kevin Spencer, Markerstudy Group CEO said: “We are closing our 20 th year of trading with our 35th acquisition.  This purchase represents a significant investment for us into the SME space and supports our ambitious growth targets. Following our acquisition of Brightside, we have developed the commercial business substantially and access to the Lloyd’s market is integral to our expansion strategy. “We warmly welcome Toby Clegg and his team to Markerstudy. Toby will continue as CEO of Clegg Gifford, whilst his father and company founder, Roy Clegg, will retire on completion of the deal.” Toby said: “Markerstudy’s motto is ‘fortune favours the bold’ and they’ve blazed a trail for many years. To really capture the huge array of opportunities in this industry you need bold thinking, scale and broad shoulders. Joining the Markerstudy family enables us to push forward to the next level; we bring our Lloyd’s pedigree alongside the reinsurance facilities we hold and a national client base which will serve as the springboard for further development. It truly is a game changing prospect for Clegg Gifford and we are very excited by the future.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/24/markerstudy-has-announced-its-acquisition-of-lloyd’s-broker-clegg-gifford,-subject-to-regulatory-approval https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/24/markerstudy-has-announced-its-acquisition-of-lloyd’s-broker-clegg-gifford,-subject-to-regulatory-approval Fri, 24 December 2021 10:17:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/17/markerstudy-survey-78-feel-uk-infrastructure-‘definitely-not’-ready-for-electric-vehicles A poll run by Markerstudy on LinkedIn found 78% of nearly 200 people voted ‘definitely not’ when asked if the UK has the infrastructure to support electric vehicles.   The survey was held before the company’s ‘Emerging Vehicle Technology’ webinar on 12 December. Led by Russ Harrison, Divisional Head of Motor at Markerstudy, the webinar explored the barriers to EV take up, which included lack of fast charging points, range and cost.   During the webinar, Russ explained: “Charging infrastructure is a key concern. The number of cars per (charging) device has increased from around 11 people per device to 16, between 2019-2020. This means the UK now ranks as one of the worst among the 10 global electric vehicle markets.”   “The situation is slightly improving, however, in the first nine months of the year, 4,109 new charging points were installed and 1,100 in the last month alone. The Government also announced charging points would be required in new homes, supermarkets and workplaces, which is expected to see up to 145,000 extra charging points installed a year.”   “In underwriting terms, new risks to consider are plentiful. The experience of driving an electric vehicle can be very different to petrol and diesel, as the acceleration is much faster, commonly catching out drivers. Cables are also a key factor. We now need to consider their theft and vandalism or injuries due to them being tripped over. Will ‘trip for cash’ be the next big thing? Does the range impact on people’s speed as they look to manage speed to preserve battery range?”   “For claims, key to key time on petrol and diesel (car claims) is very low as processes are well established. Due to the high voltage nature of electric vehicle batteries they need to be quarantined for up to two weeks, which is longer than a typical repair cycle for petrol and diesel vehicles.”   The discussion also focu s sed on ‘range anxiety’, cost and service. To view the full webinar, visit Markerstudy’s Twitter page, @Markerstudyins. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/17/markerstudy-survey-78-feel-uk-infrastructure-‘definitely-not’-ready-for-electric-vehicles https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/17/markerstudy-survey-78-feel-uk-infrastructure-‘definitely-not’-ready-for-electric-vehicles Fri, 17 December 2021 09:38:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/14/syed-jamal What key experience are you bringing to Markerstudy Group? The early part of my career was spent in a traditional actuarial role focusing on technical pricing. Over time I transitioned into roles with a greater focus on driving commercial performance through underwriting. These two broad areas of experience give me complementary skills to deliver the plans we have for the Household portfolio. What are your future plans or most important objective(s) for your part of the business? Household at Markerstudy is in a very exciting space. I genuinely feel that we are at the beginning of a remarkable opportunity and I am keen for us build on our success in Motor to achieve a similar status in the Household market. I think one of the strongest arrows in our quiver is going to be the incredible relationship we have with our brokers. From the virtual meetings I’ve attended during the past few months, I’ve been thrilled by the shared ambition and commitment. What makes you tick at work? I think being able to work with the right team can transform the most challenging of circumstances into an exciting journey. For me, the ‘right’ people are those who share a collaborative culture and who are passionate about achieving and exceeding targets. In the short time I’ve been in this role, I have noticed a real entrepreneurial spirit among people at Markerstudy, and as a result key initiatives for Household are progressing at a very decent pace. What qualities do you admire in a person? A can-do attitude and optimism. (I know Underwriters and Actuaries aren't known to be the most optimistic bunch!) What’s your biggest turn off? A lack of ambition. Although I think saying this on record is going to give me problems in the next budget planning exercise! What advice would you give to your younger self if you could travel back in time? Don’t be too risk-averse…Fortune favours the brave! How do you enjoy spending your free time? Most of my free time is spent watching Netflix with a ‘not-so-healthy’ meal. Other than that, I enjoy playing tennis on weekends and exploring the countryside. Plus, having recently relocated to Manchester, my wife and I have got a fairly lengthy bucket list of outdoor activities which we need to start working through.   Independently of the questions, here is my bio, for reference: Syed joined Markerstudy from Ageas Insurance. At Ageas, Syed looked after the Risk Pricing for direct Motor and Household portfolios. Prior to this, Syed spent three years with Direct Line Group building GLM-based technical price models and worked on renewal optimisation. Syed began his career with AXA Insurance in 2013. He is qualified to become an Associate of Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA) and holds a First Class BSc. (Hons) in Actuarial Science from University of East Anglia. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/14/syed-jamal https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/14/syed-jamal Tue, 14 December 2021 13:49:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/8/emerging-vehicle-technology-webinar Today, Wednesday 8 th December, we hosted an Emerging Vehicle Technology webinar and were thrilled with the number of attendees – thank you to everyone who attended.   The key topics covered in the webinar included: The benefits of electric vehicles: Environmental and economic factors New and evolving risks for the insurance sector: The impact on claims and levels of cover Barriers to entry: Range, Charging infrastructure, availability and affordability Click to view webinar video Click to view webinar slides   We’d like to hear from you… Please CLICK HERE to let us know what topics you would like our future webinars to be on. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/8/emerging-vehicle-technology-webinar https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/december/8/emerging-vehicle-technology-webinar Wed, 08 December 2021 15:22:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/november/25/join-our-emerging-vehicles-technology-webinar Markerstudy Broker Management are thrilled to be hosting a series of webinars over the coming months.  We’re delighted to invite you to attend our first webinar on Wednesday 8 th December at 8:30am. Amanda Fox, Head of Broker Management & Product Governance will be joined by Russ Harrison, Divisional Head, to discuss ‘ Emerging Vehicle Technology ’.    The key topics in this webinar will include: The benefits of electric vehicles: Environmental and economic factors New and evolving risks for the insurance sector: The impact on claims and levels of cover Barriers to entry: Range, Charging infrastructure, availability and affordability REGISTER TO ATTEND WEBINAR ANY QUESTIONS? To ensure we cover everything you’d like to know about this topic please submit your questions in advance by clicking HERE . SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS Register to attend our webinar and you’ll be entered into a free prize draw to win a Fortnum & Mason Christmas Treat hamper! We look forward to seeing you there! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/november/25/join-our-emerging-vehicles-technology-webinar https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/november/25/join-our-emerging-vehicles-technology-webinar Thu, 25 November 2021 14:53:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/october/21/gary’s-preamble Welcome to our penultimate news round-up of the year. The nights are drawing in, and in a matter of days, we’ll be turning our clocks back by an hour. For those of us who can’t be bothered to alter the clocks in our cars, and have been an hour out for the last 6 months, this is a little win! Another ‘win’ that I’m celebrating is the result of the Insurance Times MGA Survey.  Markerstudy has been awarded an overall four-star rating by brokers for a second consecutive year. Brokers believed they received flexibility, professionalism, and a fantastic ability to balance data modelling with commercial acumen. In addition, brokers felt Markerstudy possessed excellent underwriters who are responsive to business needs and open to new ideas. Equally impressive, was Markerstudy’s ability to write business in niche areas in addition to managing a wide variety of schemes. Notable comments from a few of our broker partners included: “Solid u/w credentials, rated capacity, hugely experienced team and enterprising.” “Flexible, understand schemes and willing to grow schemes from creation to successful business.” “Great team of people, you always know where you stand and they are always open to new ideas.” Thank you for taking the time to respond to the survey, and for providing such positive feedback.  We’re not resting on our laurels, though! Next year, I want to achieve a 5 star rating. With recent new additions to my team, including Dr Will James – Head of Technical Underwriting, we’re working on all areas of the business to bring you and your customers even greater product choice and pricing, claims reporting and service. As our calendars start to fill with the traditional Q4 celebrations, I hope you enjoy the forthcoming Broker Expo and Insurance Times Awards (look out for the branded Markerstudy trilby hats!). Keep safe, and well. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/october/21/gary’s-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/october/21/gary’s-preamble Thu, 21 October 2021 15:37:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/september/25/west-bay-insurance-plc-update Please see below updates relating to West Bay Insurance Plc: An explanation regarding the change in name of Markerstudy Insurance Company Limited (MICL) and Zenith Insurance Plc (ZIP) to West Bay Insurance Plc Confirmation of continuity of service, people and products Change activities required, actions to be taken and applicable dates Sources for further information regarding change activity Questions & Answers   We would like to assure you, these changes do not affect the service we provide. Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited (MISL) will continue to provide all the services currently undertaken. This includes all underwriting, operational and claims services and as such, no changes to personnel are expected as a direct result of the insurer’s change of name to West Bay Insurance Plc.   Name change Following our previous communications relating to the change of insurer name from Zenith Insurance Plc (ZIP) to West Bay Insurance Plc (WBIP) we can advise that the relevant approvals were granted, with the change taking place on the 23rd November 2021.     Required change activity & key dates Change activities and applicable dates requiring your attention ahead of 1 st  January 2022, the date on which Markerstudy Insurance Company Limited (MICL) and Zenith Insurance Plc (ZIP) needs to be changed to West Bay Insurance Plc.  Although the name is changing to West Bay Insurance Plc the insurer will remain in the ownership of QIC Europe Limited.   All products underwritten by MICL From 1 st  January 2022, MICL is no longer underwriting the products and their name will no longer appear on your Software House system for new business risks. This will be replaced by either the name West Bay Insurance Plc or MISL. All current MICL products and schemes will still be available to you, however from 1 st  January 2022 they will be underwritten by West Bay Insurance Plc. There will need to be consideration for a 12 month run-off period to accommodate MTAs and cancellations on policies incepted on or prior to 31 st  December 2021. The insurer will need to remain as MICL until the policyholder’s next renewal that falls after this date.   All products underwritten by ZIP All products currently underwritten by ZIP require a change of company name to West Bay Insurance Plc from 1 st  January 2022. The ZIP registered company number and address is remaining the same, only the company name is changing to West Bay Insurance Plc. Brokers as the insurance intermediary, you will need to remove all reference to Zenith Insurance Plc from any documentation issued by you.   Software Houses Required changes to policy documents have been confirmed with each Software House (SWH), and to those brokers who operate bespoke systems.   The changes to policy documentation will be available through your Software House product suite in the normal way and all required SWH changes will be completed in time to allow for changes to take effect for policies due for renewal or incepting from 1 st  January 2022 and any subsequent MTA.   Product range and scheme names There will not be any changes to our current product range with the change in insurer name. However, in time we anticipate opportunities to enhance our product portfolio.     We are amending the name of all schemes that reference either MICL or ZIP in the title.    The following naming convention as the principle guiding changes with software houses will be: MICL schemes will change to MISL ZIP or Zenith schemes will change to MISL     Please direct queries relating to this to your Markerstudy Broker Manager or to  BrokerManagement@markerstudy.com .   Frequently asked questions:   Q. Is West Bay a new and separate legal entity? A:  No, for Zenith Insurance Plc (ZIP) this is just a change in name only. For Markerstudy Insurance Company Limited (MICL) all existing business with an inception/renewal date prior to 1 st  January 2022 will retain the MICL name until its next renewal date when it will be available in the name of West Bay Insurance Plc. From 1 st  January 2022 effective date, all new business and renewals will be written under the West Bay Insurance Plc name.   Q: Where will underwriting decisions be made? Who is responsible for assessing risks and setting rates? A:  The same teams currently underwriting MICL and ZIP will continue to do so despite the insurers becoming West Bay Insurance Plc.   Q. Will my trading platform or Software House be affected? A:  Required changes to products and policy documents have been specified with each Software House and to brokers with bespoke trading platforms.  Your Software House will communicate these changes to you in advance of the commencement of trading under West Bay.   Q. Will my agency numbers change? A:  No, your existing agency numbers remain the same.   Q. What do we have to do from our side?   A : If we have specifically asked you to make changes to policyholder documentation please ensure these are updated as instructed and implemented.  Please also ensure you notify your policyholders of these changes next time you contact them. Whether that is an MTA or renewal.    Q. Will scheme names change? A:  Yes, all schemes with MICL and/or ZIP in the name will change to: MICL Schemes will change to MISL ZIP or Zenith schemes will change to MISL     Q. Will there be any branding changes? A:  No, there will be no MISL logo or branding changes needed. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/september/25/west-bay-insurance-plc-update https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/september/25/west-bay-insurance-plc-update Sat, 25 September 2021 15:03:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/september/17/markerstudy-partners-with-a-rated-accredited-insurance-for-wholesale-fleet Markerstudy is already welcoming new agencies, following its agreement to partner with A M Best A-  rated Accredited Insurance on its bespoke fleet products.  Dave Rich, Head of Fleet at Markerstudy since March 2021, and formerly Head of Underwriting for ten years at LV=, comments: “We’re committed to the London market wholesale channel and hugely passionate about helping brokers place bespoke fleet business. With A-  rated capacity from Accredited, the door is now open and I’m looking forward to reinstating old relationships, and writing business with new wholesale broker partners”. With a specialist bespoke fleet underwriting team headed up by Dave Smallman, and Helen Greenfield at the helm of the fleet operations team, Markerstudy will be broadening their product and service offering, with a wide acceptance appetite and particular interest in private car fleets. “We’re delighted to further strengthen our partnership with Accredited”, says Gary Humphreys, Chief Underwriting Officer at Markerstudy Group. “The wholesale fleet market has huge potential for us, and it’s personally rewarding to renew our historical ties with the Lloyds market”. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/september/17/markerstudy-partners-with-a-rated-accredited-insurance-for-wholesale-fleet https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/september/17/markerstudy-partners-with-a-rated-accredited-insurance-for-wholesale-fleet Fri, 17 September 2021 08:30:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/august/11/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 Following our communication dated 10th May regarding the withdrawal of the ABI Pledges, we would like to share with you some updates to our levels of insurance cover. With lockdown restrictions easing and travel to workplaces becoming more routine, we would recommend drivers check their insurance cover to make sure it is appropriate for their needs. Change in occupation A customer’s employment status and occupation will need to be up to date on the policy record. Whilst we will not void an existing customer’s policy as a result of their occupation details being incorrect following a change in circumstance as a result of the pandemic, we do expect policies to be updated with the correct information at the next renewal, after which time incorrect details could affect their cover. Vehicle use If a customer’s driving activities have changed as a result of the pandemic, please update details of their vehicles on the policy record. Particularly if they are looking to continue to do any of the following, which they did not previously have cover for: Use their vehicle to drive to work, rather than using public transport Drive to different locations for work purposes Drive more miles than declared, as a result of voluntary work Use their vehicle to make deliveries As previously mentioned, we will not void an existing customer’s policy as a result of their vehicle use being incorrect following a change in circumstance as a result of the pandemic, please update policies with the correct information at the next renewal, after which time incorrect details could affect a policyholders cover. Vehicle use abroad Should a customer be looking to use their vehicle abroad, please ask them to notify you of any use which is outside of their standard policy cover. Please note, an additional premium may be required if this isn’t standard cover on their policy. However, if a customer remains abroad as a result of the pandemic, please contact us directly and we will talk through the policyholder’s options with you. Document collection and validation As you would expect, requests and validations of documentation are now required, for example NCB proof and Driving Licences. We may need to cancel policies if this documentation is not received within the timelines given. Motor (car, commercial vehicle, motorcycle): MOTs Customers should be able to obtain an MOT as garages have now fully re-opened. It is therefore important that a valid MOT is in place, as without this, cover could be affected. Laid up /suspended use cover As you will know, it continues to be a legal requirement to have valid vehicle insurance in place unless a customer has registered the vehicle as being off the road and applied for a SORN. If a customer has seen a change in their annual mileage please let us know and we can review their insurance cover.  Please be aware it may result in an adjustment of their premium. Schemes For other classes of business, including Schemes, we confirmed ways in which we were able to be more flexible because of the pandemic. We hope this helped ease what has been a very difficult year for everyone. Where applicable, customers received communications providing details of this, and whether this flexibility applied only whilst in lockdown or would remain in place once the pandemic was over. Any agreements put in place for the duration of the lockdown period only will no longer be applicable. If you have any additional questions please do not hesitate to contact us at: brokermanagement@markerstudy.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/august/11/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/august/11/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 Wed, 11 August 2021 15:24:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/august/06/uk-drivers-will-no-longer-need-‘green-card’-insurance-to-drive-in-the-eu Great news for UK motorists planning a driving holiday abroad this summer. The European Commission has implemented a new change to motoring law, whereby drivers of UK-registered vehicles, including those from Northern Ireland, will no longer need green card insurance when driving their car in EU countries.   When will the change take effect? The important date is Monday 2 nd August.   Before the pandemic, it was thought that UK residents made about 12.6m visits to the continent via seaports and the Channel Tunnel. With Covid travel restrictions easing, many of your customers may be arranging holidays and driving trips and will appreciate knowing that they don’t need to carry a green card.   What documents will customers need when driving abroad? After 2 nd August, a certificate of insurance will cover drivers travelling between other EU/EAA countries. In addition to their certificate, it would also be worthwhile to advise customers to carry their driving licence and V5C logbook and display a GB sticker on their vehicle.   However to avoid delays we advise drivers to continue to use green cards until 2 nd September.   In some cases, they may also need an International Driving Permit to drive in some EU/EEA countries 2 . For more information visit: www.gov.uk/driving-abroad .   Motorists of other vehicles should also note some Green Card Free Circulation Area (GCFCA) countries may require a separate green card as proof of insurance for trailers or caravans 1 . If customers are planning to travel with a trailer or caravan, we recommend they contact their insurance company for advice to see whether they still require a green card 1 . Motorists based in GCFCA countries and travelling to the UK are not required to carry green cards, although drivers could be asked to provide proof of their current motor insurance policy.   Conclusion Huw Evans, Director General at the Association of British Insurers welcomed the new change by saying: “This is excellent news. We have long campaigned for the UK to be part of the Green Card Free Circulation Zone so we warmly welcome the decision by the European Commission.   “The Commission has taken a pragmatic approach on the matter. UK drivers will no longer need to apply for a Green Card through their insurer which will help reduce bureaucracy for drivers and road hauliers travelling between the UK and EU.”   Contact Us If you are planning on travelling to Europe before the rule change, please visit the Markerstudy Broker Hub to issue an instant Green Card for your customer. For more information, contact brokermanagement@markerstudy.com .       Please ensure customers are informed of this change in rule.   Sources: 1- Motor Insurer’s Bureau (MIB) - Green Card Information for the public: Green Card information for the public (mib.org.uk) 2 - GOV.UK - Driving abroad: Driving abroad - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/august/06/uk-drivers-will-no-longer-need-‘green-card’-insurance-to-drive-in-the-eu https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/august/06/uk-drivers-will-no-longer-need-‘green-card’-insurance-to-drive-in-the-eu Fri, 06 August 2021 09:43:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/messages-from-our-brokers-to-celebrate-markerstudys-20th-anniversary Here are few of the kind messages from our brokers to celebrate Markerstudy's 20th anniversary: "I have many special and holarious memories, but what I'd like to share is that Markerstudy really are there for their brokers in times of adversity." Mike Joseph, Right Choice "The best thing about Markerstudy - Old Skool! People that talk to you like people, and not like coporate robots - everybody knows where everybody stands" Tony Buckingham, Buckingham Insurance Great to hear from one of our original brokers on our 20th anniversary, thank you for your ongoing support Kevin Slowther. "Congratulations to all the Markerstudy team on their 20th anniversary in business. I feel honoured and privileged that I was one of the two original agents appointed by Markerstudy at the outset. They have been the recognised leaders in "Insurer" and "Broker" relationships. From day one they changed the dynamics with their commitment to supporting the broker market, making it possible to have direct access to an Underwriter. I would like to wish Kevin, Gary and everyone at Markerstudy every success in the future." https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/messages-from-our-brokers-to-celebrate-markerstudys-20th-anniversary https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/messages-from-our-brokers-to-celebrate-markerstudys-20th-anniversary Mon, 21 June 2021 16:22:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/seventeen-years,-and-counting… Neil Hayden, Broker Manager, and winner of the Markerstudy Employee of the Decade title, shares a few thoughts on his long and eventful journey with us: "From 2001 – 2004, Markerstudy outsourced their field force (ie. broker managers) to HML Marketing Ltd – HML being Holman’s, a Lloyds guarantee broker. I was the Area Manager back then for Cumbria, Merseyside, Cheshire, Greater Manchester and north & west Yorkshire. I managed the HML registered brokers in those areas. In December 2001, HML were awarded exclusive rights to manage/support and develop Markerstudy agencies and introduce any new opportunities at the time. Markerstudy instructed HML to hold a series of roadshows where Kevin and Gary travelled the length of the country to tell brokers about Markerstudy, the new kid on the block. I then joined Markerstudy, on 1 st November 2004! In 2005 we held a competition for all our existing brokers – the broker that increased their GWP support for MICL, Symphony & Planet, by the largest margin, would win an all-expenses-paid VIP trip to Gibraltar and meet Gary Humphreys. The winners were Steve and Scott Mourton (Steve is Scott’s father) of Milestone. I was given the job of accompanying them both on a flight from Leeds & Bradford Airport directly in to Gib where we spent a few days eating, drinking and enjoying a full tour of the rock. I have fond memories of being awarded Employee of the Decade in a massive, totally packed marquee in Thorpe Park (we hired it to hold our 10 th anniversary celebrations for staff, family and friends). I recall being absolutely stunned when my name was announced. I don’t remember too much, but I was the proud owner of a brand new car! 😊 Here’s to the next ten years!" https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/seventeen-years,-and-counting… https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/seventeen-years,-and-counting… Mon, 21 June 2021 11:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/amanda’s-news-from-norfolk I was rather hoping that we’d all be celebrating the complete easing of lockdown measures, but sadly not. However, rather than sounding like a broken record, that is all I am going to say on the subject (apart from how wonderful it is to be able to dine out, inside, once more!). And talking of positives, I’d like to share my thoughts on the FCA pricing reforms. The industry demands we review products and prices to be fair, and meet our customers’ needs, and on this it’s imperative that we’re open to new ideas.  I think this is a pivotal moment. There’s the rise of insurance disruptors (eg. Amazon), huge changes in the way we work and travel brought about by C-19, increased interest in usage based insurance, and the Environmental focus on reducing carbon emissions, by switching from petrol or diesel to electric or alternative fuels. As Gary mentions above, we have a prime opportunity to support our customers and deliver to them a product that meets their needs, at a fair price. I’m excited by what the future holds for our industry and at Markerstudy, we have ambitions to achieve change by becoming even more data driven, and implementing cutting edge data science and statistical techniques to enable us to develop new products, find new risk characteristics, and improve the claims experience. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/amanda’s-news-from-norfolk https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/amanda’s-news-from-norfolk Mon, 21 June 2021 11:19:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/gary’s-preamble In what seems like the blink of an eye, we’re hurtling towards July. At this time of year, there’d usually be light-hearted water-cooler conversations about forthcoming summer holiday plans; sadly the opposite is the case, with the traffic light system and sold-out staycations being the general topic. But, if you’re desperate, Gibraltar is still on the UK’s green list! Many of you will know that we started our own Markerstudy journey in that very country, 20 years ago, on 4 th May 2001.  Unable to hold a celebration this year, we instead asked you to share your anecdotes and memories from the past two decades of trading with us.  We were delighted with your responses and have picked out a few of our favourites! . We’ve recently updated our timeline in honour of this anniversary, with our newest and most notable activities . The next few months may continue to be uncertain, but as a community, it’s great to see how much progress is being made. Overall, the UK insurance market is worth £33billion to the UK economy, so there’s plenty of opportunity to adapt to the changing market place. We’ve all seen the collapse of the ‘traditional High Street’, and the rise of on-demand insurance, and this ‘customer centricity’ is our focus. I hope to share more on this in our next issue. But for now, I hear Iceland still has its doors open, and in this heat, an ice lolly is just the ticket! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/gary’s-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/june/21/gary’s-preamble Mon, 21 June 2021 11:10:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/may/27/claimsvulnerable-customers-covid-19-–-faqs Frequently Asked Questions   How are your Accident Repair Centres [either owned or in your networks] operating in the current environment? Bodyshops and dealerships have now fully re-opened, and as such, vehicle repairs have been able to be progressed to the same timescales as experienced prior to the pandemic.   Do MISL warn customers of potential delays? Yes – whilst we are not experiencing any delays as a result of the pandemic, in accordance with our normal processes if we identify a potential delay we will notify the customer about this.   Will MISL continue to make claim payments using BACs? Yes - as a result of the pandemic we implemented the use of BACs payments, to ensure both customers and suppliers received payments quickly. This has replaced the previous process of issuing payments by cheque; not only was this process slower but the move to BACs payments has meant customers won’t be affected by any difficulties accessing banking services in order to pay in the cheque. BACs payments will continue to be utilised in place of cheques on a permanent basis due to the benefits of using this payment method as outlined above.   Will customers continue to be allowed additional time to find a replacement vehicle after a total loss? As garages and car dealerships have re-opened we are reverting to allowing customers 14 days to find a replacement vehicle. However, we may be able to accommodate an extension to this upon referral in exceptional circumstances.   Will customers continue to be allowed additional time to obtain an engineer’s report and MOT after a total loss, where they are retaining the salvage? As garages have re-opened and engineer inspections are able to go ahead we are reverting to allowing customers 14 days to obtain an engineer’s report and MOT in order for cover to continue. However, we may be able to accommodate an extension to this upon referral in exceptional circumstances.   Do MISL have plans to continue prioritising claims based on customer need? At the start of the pandemic we introduced some temporary initiatives to support frontline NHS staff and other key workers. As we are now coming out of the pandemic, our claims services will now return to business as usual, ensuring that all claims are dealt with as quickly as possible. However, in exceptional circumstances we will make every effort to expedite a claim where this is required in order to get a customer back on the road.   What is MISL doing to support vulnerable customers? The definition of ‘vulnerable’ has now become a lot broader as a result of the pandemic. These customers will continue to be given the appropriate support. From a complaints perspective, we are also looking out for vulnerable customers at the point we log or handle the complaint and are monitoring Trustpilot and other social media to identify any customers that need extra support.   As some impacts of the pandemic continue, if a customer shows signs of distress in coping during these difficult times, what actions are MISL staff taking? We have provided guidance to all customer facing staff concerning how to communicate with distressed customers. If deemed appropriate, they will re-direct some customers to our Customer Care Team who have received specific training and are more used to dealing with more sensitive interactions.   Are you concerned about an increase in fraud because of the uncertain economic situation and are you putting in extra solutions to address this? We are always alive to the prospect of economic uncertainty increasing the levels of fraud, and so additional measures are being taken to monitor and address any changes.   Contacts MISL employees are continuing to work from home at this current time, however we are hoping to start a phased return to our offices from July. Therefore the following contact details should continue to be used, and we will issue a further communication should these change.   How can I contact MISL for general broker support queries? The Broker Management team are eager to help wherever possible, so please contact your Broker Manager in the usual way, or alternatively email the Broker Management support team for assistance .   By Product How can I contact MISL specific departments for mid term adjustments, technical queries, manual quotes, etc?   Private Car, Commercial Vehicle and Motorcycle For manual requests/changes, including NCB requests. If this is a general query that would usually be dealt with over the phone, please include ‘OPS POST’ as well as the policy number in the subject line, we will then be able to identify these easily. For all other emails, please categorise in the normal way i.e. OPS NON MID / OPS NCB etc. along with the policy number. Email Private Car, Commercial Vehicle and Bike   Fleet For all new business enquiries/quotes – access to the Underwriters: Email Fleet For any vehicle changes to fleet policies: Email Fleet For any general fleet policy enquiries (e.g. adding drivers or noting foreign use) or urgent requests (e.g. requests for claims experience, cancellations, transfer of agency, driver referrals). Email Fleet   Taxi For all Taxi queries/requests: Email Taxi queries/requests   Commercial (Liabilities and Combined Policies) For specific potential claims or queries regarding cover: Email Commercial (Liabilities and Combined Policies) For policy MTAs: Email Policy MTAs   Family Fleet For all requests from brokers, quotes, MTA’s: Email Family Fleet   Agriculture For all requests from broker, quotes, MTA’s: Email Agriculture   Motor Trade For all requests from broker, quotes, MTA’s: Email Motor Trade   Other Supporting Departments Technical Underwriting Information For all documents/criteria/explanations in relation to claim referrals: Email Technical Underwriting Information   Fraud For all policy fraud enquiries, queries, referrals, CUE and validation: Email Fraud   Finance For account queries from Statements and BDX: Email Finance   Data Protection and Statements For DPA and Statement requests: Email DPA and Statement requests   EDI and Technical For police enquiries/DPA requests/Section 29, and any other ‘technical’ policy queries: Email EDI and Technical https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/may/27/claimsvulnerable-customers-covid-19-–-faqs https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/may/27/claimsvulnerable-customers-covid-19-–-faqs Thu, 27 May 2021 15:01:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/may/27/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic we have fully backed the ABI pledges to ensure that we supported both you and your customers during uncertain times. Now that lockdown restrictions are easing and travel to workplaces is becoming more routine, it will again become necessary for drivers to check their insurance cover is appropriate for their needs. The ABI pledges came to an end on 30th April 2021, and we would therefore like to clarify our stance going forwards, as summarised in the table below. MISL’s stance in support of the ABI pledges from 7 th April 2020 to 30 th April 2021 MISL’s stance following the withdrawal of the ABI pledges with effect from 30 th April 2021 Change in Occupation You were not required to update the policy where a customer had been made unemployed or came back into employment as a key worker, we only asked that the customer gets back in touch again if their circumstances change. We also asked that you set a diary entry to contact the customer after the Government lockdown guidelines were relaxed or at renewal, and to keep us informed then. Change in Occupation We now expect the customer’s employment status and occupation to be up to date on the policy record. Therefore, we would ask that you confirm this with them at the first available opportunity, for example, if they contact you mid-term, and if not, this should be confirmed at renewal. Whilst we will not void an existing customer’s policy as a result of their occupation details being incorrect following a change in circumstance as a result of the pandemic, we do expect policies to be updated with the correct information at the next renewal, after which time incorrect details could affect their cover. Vehicle use If your customer needed to use their vehicle to; Drive to work, rather than using public transport travel between work locations if a key worker Travel or undertake voluntary work, thus resulting in increased mileage Volunteer and support the community Make food deliveries which were related to their core occupation We confirmed that you did not need to inform us and that their cover would remain unaffected during the Government lockdown. We advised this guidance would be reviewed once restrictions were relaxed. Vehicle use If the customer’s driving activities have changed as a result of the pandemic we now expect details of their vehicle use to be updated on the policy record. Therefore, we would ask that you confirm this with them at the first available opportunity, for example, if they contact you mid-term, and if not, this should be confirmed at renewal. Particularly if they are looking to continue to do any of the following, which they did not previously have cover for: Use their vehicle to drive to work, rather than using public transport Drive to different locations for work purposes Drive more miles than declared, as a result of voluntary work Use their vehicle to make deliveries Whilst we will not void an existing customer’s policy as a result of their vehicle use being incorrect following a change in circumstance as a result of the pandemic, we do expect policies to be updated with the correct information at the next renewal, after which time incorrect details could affect their cover. Customers in the European Union who may be unable to get home We extended cover for customers under all sections of their policy as shown in their schedule, whilst they were within the European Union or any other permitted country described in their Policy Wording until the end of the lockdown. You were not required to contact us to update their policy or extend their cover. Vehicle Use Abroad All customers should now have been able to return home, and as such should a customer now be looking to use their vehicle abroad we require you to notify us of any use the customer is looking to make which is outside of their standard policy cover, as they may be required to pay an additional premium. If you do have anyone who remains abroad as a result of the pandemic, please contact us separately. What happens if customers are unable to provide proof of No Claims Bonus and Driving Licence details? What should we do? We asked you to continue to request and validate documentation, where received, for NCB proof and Driving Licence information whilst the Government lockdown guidelines remain in place. However, during this period we confirmed that you did not have to chase or cancel if documentation was not received, and asked that you followed up any outstanding documents once the lockdown was over. We confirmed that we would also be collecting these documents in the event of any claim and that customers would be required to pay any difference in premium due, if discrepancies in the details provided were identified. Document Collection and Validation We would now ask that you return to your ‘business as usual’ activities, as they were prior to the pandemic. Therefore, we would ask you to continue to request and validate any documentation that you were required to collect prior to the pandemic, for example NCB proof and Driving Licences, and would also ask that you chase and cancel if the documentation is not received within the timelines you followed to prior to the pandemic.   Motor (Car, Commercial Vehicle, Motorcycle)   Will cover remain in force if customers are unable to get an MOT during the lockdown period as garages are now closed? MISL agreed for cover to remain without a valid MOT in place, as a direct result of Covid-19 from 16 March 2020. The Government then took this a step further and announced that from 30 March 2020, all MOT certificates would be granted an automatic 6-month extension as long as vehicles were kept in a roadworthy condition. MOTs Customers should be able to obtain an MOT as garages have now fully re-opened. Therefore, please note that if the customer does not have a valid MOT in place, this could affect their cover. Can we offer customers ‘laid up’ or ‘suspended’ cover and a reduction in premium if they are not using their vehicle(s) at all during the lockdown? For screen-rated business (car, commercial vehicle, and motorcycle), this was not possible as most software houses could not accommodate this, unfortunately. We advised you that it was worth reminding customers that it is a legal requirement to have valid vehicle insurance in place unless the customer had registered the vehicle as being off the road and applied for a SORN. Laid Up / Suspended Use Cover It continues to be a legal requirement to have valid vehicle insurance in place unless the customer has registered the vehicle as being off the road and applied for a SORN. If the customer has seen a reduction in their annual mileage this can be reduced, however it may not have a significant impact on their premium, and in some circumstances this could result in an additional premium being payable. For other classes of business, including Schemes, we confirmed ways in which we were able to be more flexible at the start of the pandemic. Where applicable, you received communications from us providing details of this, and whether this flexibility applied only whilst in lockdown or would remain in place once the pandemic was over. Therefore, please note that any agreements put in place for the duration of the lockdown period only have now been withdrawn. However, if you have any questions or need any further information, please contact your Broker Manager, the relevant Underwriter or Broker Management Team for an update. We appreciate this may continue to be a difficult time for some customers and as such those continuing to experience financial hardship as a result of the pandemic may wish to discuss their insurance cover and the options available with you. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/may/27/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/may/27/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 Thu, 27 May 2021 14:58:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/april/12/markerstudy-group-announce-the-appointment-of-benny-higgins-as-group-chairman Markerstudy Group has announced the appointment of Benny Higgins as Group Chairman, in a move that concludes a busy Q1 in which it welcomed investment from new partners Pollen Street Capital and Qatar Insurance Company, and announced it had acquired Brightside Group. Kevin Spencer, Group CEO, said: “We are steering Markerstudy Group on an exhilarating growth trajectory and due to our size, diversity, and speed of acceleration, it’s the optimum time to invite a Chairman on board to complement the skills of my existing board of Directors. Benny has vast financial sector experience, coupled with a social and philanthropic conscience, and it’s these combined attributes which attracted us to him, and which align so well with our plans for the future.” Benny Higgins, said: “I am thrilled to be joining Markerstudy Group at such a pivotal moment, and appreciate the opportunity to provide counsel. Post-pandemic, the ‘new’ normal which Markerstudy is wholeheartedly embracing includes a deeper understanding of an organisation’s impact on the environment, and its social and governance principles. ESG is a top priority for Markerstudy, and I am passionate about supporting change for improvement across my non-executive portfolio.” Markerstudy received Regulatory approval for the Brightside Group acquisition on 22nd March, with the deal completing on 12th April. ENDS https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/april/12/markerstudy-group-announce-the-appointment-of-benny-higgins-as-group-chairman https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/april/12/markerstudy-group-announce-the-appointment-of-benny-higgins-as-group-chairman Mon, 12 April 2021 09:34:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/31/new-‘spotlight’-webinars…-coming-soon Zoom and Teams virtual meeting platforms have given us a window into each other’s lives and work spaces, whether that’s the kitchen, living room, office or garden shed… and no one can deny the convenience of not having to travel to a meeting.  I’d like to keep the window ajar, and use webinar technology to introduce you to our product and underwriting experts throughout this year. The first topic in our new ‘Lunch & Learn’ series will be on telematics, and you’ll shortly receive an invite to meet our expert, Callum Funnell. Watch this space! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/31/new-‘spotlight’-webinars…-coming-soon https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/31/new-‘spotlight’-webinars…-coming-soon Wed, 31 March 2021 10:20:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/expert-view-–-on-data-protection Q. What’s the difference between Consent and Legitimate Interest as a legal basis for policy renewals / existing customers? We put this question to David Nunn, our Deputy Head Of Data Protection, who explains in layman’s terms below the difference. A.“Fundamentally, the difference is that for Consent, a customer has to explicitly opt in; and for Legitimate Interest, they have to explicitly opt out.  Most people do neither, so the default for Legitimate Interest would be a significantly wider reach. “Legitimate Interest allows a business to balance their needs as a company with the impact and interests of their existing customers.  If the marketing campaign serves the interests of the business, or our partners, and the end customer, on balance, then it would be ‘legitimate’ (ie. reasonable) to market to those customers in areas they have expressed an interest in, or previously purchased from, unless they have ‘opted out’ of marketing.  We are not allowed to market totally irrelevant products to them, such as pet products to a windscreen replacement customer – this would require Consent still. “We’ve been running a trial in one area of our business and have found that switching to Legitimate Interest has significantly increased our marketing reach to existing customers. If you would like further information on this, or would like to talk to a member of our Group Data Protection team, please email us at BrokerManagement@markerstudy.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/expert-view-–-on-data-protection https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/expert-view-–-on-data-protection Tue, 30 March 2021 17:09:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/new-home-product The acquisition of the Co-op Insurance portfolio has opened up the opportunity for us to diversify into the home insurance market.  The former Co-op home value chain (including claims, servicing and underwriting) coupled with our broker network and focus on technology, represents an exciting addition to our predominantly wheels-based footprint, and I’m eager at the prospect of making an impact on the household market, and bringing a new product to your door. I’m looking forward to introducing you to our head of product for home, who will share more on our launch plan over the coming weeks. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/new-home-product https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/new-home-product Tue, 30 March 2021 14:07:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/gary’s-preamble What a first quarter it’s been… We’ve introduced new partners to the group, with Pollen Street and Qatar joining forces with us to provide an injection of capital. This has reignited our passion for growth and turbo-charged our purchase of the Brightside Group, which I can share, hot off the press, has already received regulatory approval. After such a difficult 2020 for many, including ourselves, we are now embracing the new version of ‘normal’ and leaving the past behind as we look with renewed vigour to what the future holds. Easter is just days’ away, and I for one will be making the most of the easing of lockdown measures and travelling to see family in the West Midlands. This could be a double-edged sword for our industry – I’m anticipating one of the busiest weekends on the roads for months - so I wish you safe travels and a wonderful time with friends and loved ones. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/gary’s-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/30/gary’s-preamble Tue, 30 March 2021 13:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/05/markerstudy-group-announces-purchase-of-brightside Markerstudy Group has acquired Brightside Group, subject to regulatory approval, from private equity investor AnaCap Financial Partners in its first strike of 2021. This follows the Group’s completion of the purchase of the Co-op Insurance underwriting business in December 2020 and investment by Pollen Street Capital and Qatar Insurance Company in January this year. Kevin Spencer, Markerstudy Group CEO, said "We were in the running for Brightside seven years ago but lost out to AnaCap. In the intervening years we’ve observed the business with interest and developed an excellent working relationship with the team.  Due to our multifaceted operation, Brightside presents us with the opportunity to expand our product range, and further develop our broking businesses.  Coincidentally, both Markerstudy and Brightside were founded in 2001, and, similar to our early strategy, Brightside specialises in providing niche insurance across a wide range of personal lines and commercial products.”  The acquisition brings another powerful strand to the Markerstudy Group, adding in excess of £125m GWP, and affirming their new partners’ belief in their dynamic buy and build strategy.  Brendan McCafferty, CEO of Brightside Group said: “We are delighted to be joining Kevin and the Markerstudy Group, a business we have been close to and respected for a long time. We are excited about the opportunities this will create for the business and our people and look forward to supporting their strategy for growth.” Markerstudy were advised by HFW.  AnaCap were advised by KBW and Proskauer Rose. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/05/markerstudy-group-announces-purchase-of-brightside https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/march/05/markerstudy-group-announces-purchase-of-brightside Fri, 05 March 2021 09:24:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/markerstudy-group-announces-£200-million-investment Markerstudy Group (“the Group”) has today (26 January 2021) announced an agreement for a £200 million investment led by Pollen Street Capital (“Pollen Street”). The transaction will see Pollen Street partner with and make a substantial investment alongside the existing founder team. QIC will also participate in the transaction, underlining its commitment as a strategic partner to Markerstudy. The Group will use the investment to deliver an ambitious and sustainable growth programme through a combination of organic and acquisition-led expansion and build on its rapid development over the last 19 years, which culminated in the acquisition of the Co-op’s insurance underwriting business in December. Founded in 2001, Markerstudy is the fifth largest motor insurance provider in the UK, one of the largest privately owned insurance groups, and the largest Managing General Agent in the UK. With over 1.8 million policyholders, they are known for their investment in technology, underwriting expertise and sophisticated product development. Speaking of the future, Kevin Spencer, Group CEO of Markerstudy said, “We have been working with the team at Pollen Street for over a year, during which time we have built a strong working relationship and a shared vision for our combined growth ambitions. This strategic partnership with Pollen Street and QIC is a powerful alliance and will facilitate our expansion as we move to the next exciting chapter in our evolution.” Michael England, Partner at Pollen Street, said, “We are delighted to welcome Kevin and the team to the Pollen Street fold, and are excited about the future together.  We have been impressed throughout our time working together with both their growth track record and their ambitions for the future. We focus our investments on opportunities where we can work with management teams to build leaders in European financial services, driving growth through a combination of the strongest customer propositions with data and technology led business models. Markerstudy fits squarely within this theme, marking our third investment in the insurance sector in the last three years and our second investment into Pollen Street IV.” Mike van der Straaten, CEO of QIC Global said: “Since we acquired Markerstudy’s insurance carriers in 2018 we have built a hugely successful personal lines platform in partnership with Markerstudy.  We are thrilled to be invited to make this strategic investment, which underlines our commitment to the relationship and our position in the UK motor market. This remains a key strategic pillar for QIC Global. Kevin and the team have demonstrated a track record of robust underwriting and innovation and we are delighted to continue this relationship alongside the existing team and Pollen Street.” Markerstudy were advised by KBW, Slaughter and May and Oliver Wyman; Pollen Street by Alantra, Proskauer Rose, PwC, Alvarez & Marsal, Crosslake, and AON; and QIC by Jefferies and Hogan Lovells. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/markerstudy-group-announces-£200-million-investment https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2021/markerstudy-group-announces-£200-million-investment Wed, 27 January 2021 11:57:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/markerstudy-group-completes-on-the-acquisition-of-co-op-insurance-underwriting-business Markerstudy Group has today (2nd December) completed on its purchase of the Co-op Insurance underwriting business (CISGIL), commencing a 13-year partnership to provide home and motor insurance products under the Co-op brand.   Advising Markerstudy in the transaction, and a shareholder in the CISGIL joint venture, TwinFocus arranged financing with Blackstone Credit for proceeds of £185 million, and acts as an investment advisor to the Markerstudy Group. Headquartered in Boston, with its European office in London, TwinFocus overseas more than $7.5 billion of assets and provides diversified investment solutions. As the UK’s largest MGA, with over 1.8 million policyholders, Markerstudy will become the 5 th   largest motor insurance provider and has ambitions to strategically expand its footprint through the delivery of targeted products to satisfy the needs of its own, as well as the Co-op’s, customer base. Kevin Spencer, Group CEO of Markerstudy said : “This is our biggest acquisition to date and provides us with an unparalleled opportunity for growth. The 13-year agreement gives us access to the Co-op’s 4.6 million active members who will benefit from our investment in technology, underwriting expertise and sophisticated product development. I am delighted to have concluded the deal this side of Christmas. It’s wonderful to have positive news to share with our loyal staff after such a challenging year.” Charles Offord, Managing Director of Co-op Insurance Services Limited said : “We’re pleased that this sale has now completed and our 13-year partnership with Markerstudy to create and sell compelling insurance products can now commence.” As a result of this agreement, Markerstudy’s customer numbers will increase by around 1.3 million, and GWP will be boosted by more than £500 million. Ends. Contact: Charlie North Group Communications Manager  Email:  cnorth@markerstudy.com   Contact number: 07990 436690 Notes to editors: Markerstudy Markerstudy Group of Companies is a privately-owned UK organisation headquartered in Kent and employing over 3,500 employees. Established in 2001, it has been recognised as a Best Company to Work For in the UK by The Sunday Times Best Companies Awards and holds the Investors in People Gold award. As the UK’s largest MGA, Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited, supports over 1,000 broker partners and more than 1.8 million policyholders with a wide variety of insurance products.   In 2020 the group became the 5 th  largest motor insurance provider after completing the purchase of the Co-op Insurance underwriting business and commencing a 13-year partnership to provide home and motor insurance products under the Co-op brand, increasing customers by an estimated 1.3 million. The group’s portfolio also includes the Markerstudy Retail and Affinity division which operates Insurance Factory Limited, one of the UK’s largest affinity based insurance intermediaries for pet insurance; along with Auto Windscreens, VisionTrack, Vision Vehicle Solutions Limited, and Markerstudy Direct Limited, operating brands Geoffrey Insurance Services and Zenith Direct. TwinFocus TwinFocus is a premier boutique multifamily office for global ultra-high net worth families, entrepreneurs and professional investors. Headquartered in Boston, with its European office in London, TwinFocus oversees more than $7.5 billion of assets and provides diversified investment solutions that include exclusive access to unique direct investments in private equity and real estate. TwinFocus acts as financial advisor to Markerstudy’s principals and the investment portfolio underpinning policies issued by Markerstudy’s MIL subsidiary. Blackstone Credit Blackstone Credit is one of the world’s largest credit-focused asset managers, with $135 billion in AUM. It seeks to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns for its clients by investing across the entire corporate credit market, from public debt to private loans. Its capital supports a wide range of companies across sectors and geographies, enabling businesses to expand, invest, and navigate changing market environments. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/markerstudy-group-completes-on-the-acquisition-of-co-op-insurance-underwriting-business https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/markerstudy-group-completes-on-the-acquisition-of-co-op-insurance-underwriting-business Wed, 02 December 2020 14:42:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/september/25/gary’s-preamble This is usually one of my favourite seasons! Officially we’re now in Autumn and under normal circumstances we’d be sprinting headlong towards a glut of events filled with more air-kissing and hand-shaking than you can, hmm, shake a stick at! I look at my diary, and it continues to disappoint.  Not only have the plethora of insurance industry gala dinners and hospitality been shelved, but we’re also limited on the number of people we can see - fullstop.  My in-laws are largely Midlands’ based, so you can imagine the upset in the Humphreys’ household with this anticipated second wave of C-19 measures! Thank goodness for the virtual world… although, I don’t know about you, but I’m missing the humdrum conversation, the consideration of what shade of grey suit to wear (I have less than fifty!) and the potential for travel outside my own home, let alone out of Kent – with more than five other colleagues. The British Insurance Awards has been shining like a beacon of hope on the horizon, but sadly that too has succumbed to the necessity of being virtual.  We sponsored the UK Broker Awards at the beginning of September, in our usual category of Broker of the Year (Huge congratulations to the winner, Bartlett).  I was asked to record a 30 second video for this, and in a rare moment of madness, I decided to ditch the aforementioned suit, throw caution to the wind, and reveal my bedroom to 2,840 viewers (and counting!). ‘Why’ you might ask? Well, I was recreating our ‘Friends with Benefits’ advert (see below)!  I think lockdown must be getting to me! Keep safe ‘in’ there – and above all – keep well. Gary Humphreys UK Broker Awards video: https://www.insuranceage.co.uk/broker/7524526/uk-broker-awards-winners-revealed https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/september/25/gary’s-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/september/25/gary’s-preamble Fri, 25 September 2020 13:12:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/september/25/norfolk-news I have an extremely sunny office, painted in the most cheerful shade of buttercup yellow. I love my home, but I’ve never spent so much time within these four walls, and although I have a delightful garden, with a bounty of apples and pears just waiting to be plucked from the trees, it’s saddening to see that we aren’t yet out of the woods re COVID-19. The impact of further measures is affecting our insurance community; our people and our businesses. Markerstudy is no stranger to change, so we battened down the hatches during this unprecedented period, and I am pleased to say we weathered the storm of ‘wave 1’ and have every intention of riding out ‘wave 2’ in similar fashion, whilst ensuring the same levels of support to you and your customers - just as we always have. During the course of Q2 and Q3, there have been some inevitable changes in my team, and I’d like to share the revised Broker Management structure with you now:   We are working hard (albeit from home) to improve our efficiency.  One such objective is to establish SLAs within other areas of the group, particularly claims, so you are even more satisfied with the service you receive from us. On this subject, I hope you’ll find both the MGA Ratings Survey and Operational Efficiencies information of interest (see below). Whilst we are unable to meet in person, I urge you and your teams to keep in touch with me or my team via the usual channels, and, should you have any queries or concerns, my door is always open! Amanda Fox https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/september/25/norfolk-news https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/september/25/norfolk-news Fri, 25 September 2020 13:08:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/july/02/mandatory-mots-to-be-reintroduced-on-1st-august This week, the government has announced that mandatory MOT tests for car, motorcycle and van owners in England, Scotland and Wales are to be reintroduced to ensure vehicles are roadworthy.    With lockdown restrictions continuing to be slowly lifted and an increase in the number of cars on the road, if your vehicle is due an MOT test from 1 st August you will be required to get a test certificate to continue driving your vehicle. In addition to ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive, having an out of date MOT certificate will invalidate your insurance policy. Not having a valid MOT certificate is illegal (under Section 47 of the Road Traffic Act 1988) and you can also run the risk of facing a fine and points on your licence without one. If your MOT due date is before 1 st August, you will still receive a six-month exemption from testing. However, all vehicles must continue to be properly maintained and kept in a roadworthy condition.  Motorists can be prosecuted for driving an unsafe vehicle and you are able to voluntarily get your MOT sooner if you wish, even if you are exempt from the legal requirement. For more info, visit: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mandatory-mot-testing-to-be-reintroduced-from-1-august https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/july/02/mandatory-mots-to-be-reintroduced-on-1st-august https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/july/02/mandatory-mots-to-be-reintroduced-on-1st-august Thu, 02 July 2020 10:54:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/may/05/mga-re-shuffle Following a re-shuffle within the MGA, Amanda Fox – formerly Head of Broker Development – PL Nationals, has been promoted to the position of Head of Broker Management and Product Governance, reporting to Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director. Clive Fulcher, an established member of the Markerstudy family since 2011, will transfer from his existing role as Head of Development, to the position of Assistant Head of Broker Management; supporting Amanda and the wider Broker Management team.   Gary Humphreys said: “I congratulate Amanda and Clive on their new appointments, and I look forward to the UK and our industry returning to BAU in order for them to immerse themselves in getting to know our respected broking community.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/may/05/mga-re-shuffle https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/may/05/mga-re-shuffle Tue, 05 May 2020 12:12:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/markerstudy-pledges Markerstudy Pledges Partner Update - COVID-19   Good Afternoon,   In the face of adversity, the needs of our customers should come first, and we are fully in support of the ABI Motor Insurance pledges to help those who are affected either directly, or indirectly, by COVID-19.   We pledge to:   Support those who need to make a claim We have robust business continuity plans and will continue to do all that we can to minimise disruption and ensure our operation remains as unaffected as possible. Our standard working hours will remain 9am to 5pm, and our claims service continues to be 24/7, 365 days. We will prioritise getting our policyholders back on the road following a claim, and support those who are vulnerable or suffering financial hardship.                Support those who are working from home If our customers need to work from home due to illness, self-isolation or government advice we have provided alternative communication methods (including web chat and e-mail) to make communicating with us easier. Should they wish to alter their policy details – reducing the number of vehicles in a fleet, changing annual mileage, etc, they can do so quickly without reliance on a telephony solution.   Support those who cannot work from home If our customers need to use their vehicles more, due to the restrictions placed on public transport, but their existing policy does not include ‘commuting’, their insurance policy will be valid without having to amend ‘use’ class.   Support those who use their cars to help their communities If our customers need to use their own vehicles for voluntary purposes, supporting others who are impacted by COVID-19, their cover will not be affected and they do not need to tell us.    Support our key workers If our customers’ work is critical to the national response to COVID-19 and they need to use their own car to drive to different locations for work purposes, their cover will not be affected and they do not need to tell us.    That’s not all… Naturally, our response to support you and your customers is not limited to guidance from the FCA and ABI.  We are open to practical and realistic suggestions on any aspect of our products and service that will help.    With this in mind we can confirm: that we have already deployed solutions on selected specialist lines such as Taxi and Fleet, where the customer and broker impact has been immediate and acute; we’ll soon extend our flexible approach to other products to provide better alternatives than policy cancellation, such as continuation on a reduced cover basis; claimants who have been unable to complete vehicle MOT’s since 16 March due to social distancing measures will not be penalised as a result.    Look out for further updates via our  Broker Hub  and get in touch with the Broker Management team on  brokermanagement@markerstudy.com , via your Broker Manager or our Underwriting team.  We’re here to help.   Thank you again for your ongoing support.  Keep safe and keep well.   Best regards Anthony Foster Head of Broker Management https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/markerstudy-pledges https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/markerstudy-pledges Wed, 08 April 2020 11:40:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/claims-vulnerable-customers-covid-19-–-faqs What Business Continuity Plans do MISL have in place for Claims? The overriding message here is ‘Business As Usual’. We have successfully achieved 100% claims staff working from home, ensuring our operation remains as unaffected as possible with minimal disruption. Customers should contact us as advised in their policy wordings in the event of any claim. FNOL and Windscreen - we are currently able to provide a 24/7 service as usual. First Party - telephony and web chat capabilities are open for customers. Any customers or brokers requiring a telephone discussion will receive a call back from one of our third party claims handlers. Will MISL be able to maintain a 24hr claims line? Yes for FNOL and Auto Windscreens. All teams are working from home on Mitel telephones as when in the office. Even if we experience high sickness, our day teams are happy to work nightshifts from home at short notice to provide adequate cover. How can we be sure that despite MISL mitigating plans they will have sufficient staff well enough to deal with claim calls? Any re-deployment of staff from other areas into claims will be undertaken if this becomes necessary in the future, but we are confident we have the capacity to handle all claims. Do MSG have plans to warn customers of potential delays? Yes - claims staff are working proactively to process claims as quickly as possible. We are updating customers if we become aware of any issues that may cause delay, as we would normally. How are your Accident Repair Centres [either owned or in your networks] operating in the current environment? The vast majority of repairers are fully operational and will remain so during this next phase of lockdown as they are deemed an essential service. If and when things change with repair centres potentially closing due to local or national restrictions, our supply is confident of maintaining repair capacity in all areas. Will MISL supply chain be able to deal with claims if parts become scarce? We are maintaining regular dialogue with our supply chain partners, specifically those involved in repair management and vehicle salvage disposals. The supply of parts may become an issue but our repair network partners are engaged in direct dialogue with dealer sites and vehicle manufacturers to continued service. We will communicate with all relevant parts if this changes. All suitable alternatives (non-original equipment parts, repair over replacement, or possibly reconditioned parts) will be considered if this is the only option available to us and the repairer, and of course with the customer’s agreement. We continue to be mindful of customer choice and specific policy wording. What are you doing to help people in a claim situation requiring suppliers to visit customers at home? Repairers are completing physical vehicle inspections, with stringent safety measures being applied and pre-agreed with customers and garages prior to visits. They also have workforce capability to provide desk based image inspections as part of their ongoing support. Loss Adjustors are also able to carry out home visits, following necessary safety guidelines, and pre-agreed with customers. They are also able to conduct their enquiries via video calls if preferred. Do MISL have plans to prioritise claims based on customer need? Yes, we have already implemented initiatives to provide early identification and support of frontline NHS and key workers. Repairs will be prioritised and enhanced trading terms have been agreed with repairers. We will also provide a hire car for NHS workers (free of charge) if courtesy cars are not available. Early total loss identification continues as normal and we are now flagging any NHS and key worker policyholders to expedite their settlements. What are MISL doing to support vulnerable customers at this difficult time? The definition of ‘vulnerable’ has now become a lot broader and includes NHS frontline and key workers, customers over 70, those with an underlying health condition as well as customers experiencing financial hardship. These customers will be given the appropriate support at this difficult time. From a complaints perspective, we are also looking out for vulnerable customers at the point we log or handle the complaint and are monitoring Trustpilot and other social media to identify any customers that need extra support. We will be posting specific product updates on our Broker Hub as these emerge. If a customer shows signs of distress in coping during these difficult times, what are MISL staff being told to do? MISL have sent a guidance document to all customer facing staff advising how to talk to distressed customers. If deemed appropriate, they will re-direct such cases to our customer care team who have received training and are more used to these kind of sensitive interactions. Are you concerned about an increase in fraud because of the uncertain economic situation and are you putting in extra solutions to address this? We are always alive to the prospect of economic uncertainty increasing the levels of fraud, and so additional measures are being taken to monitor and address any changes. What concerns do you have over the whiplash reforms being implemented on the new proposed date of the 1 August? In a time of uncertainty, it is a case of ‘wait and see if anything changes’ on this front.   Contacts How can I contact MISL for general broker support queries? The Broker Management team are eager to help wherever possible, so please contact your Broker Manager in the usual way, or alternatively email the Broker Management support team brokermanagement@markerstudy.com for assistance.   By Product How can I contact MISL specific departments for Mid Term Adjustments, technical queries, manual quotes etc? Car, Commercial Vehicle and Bike (Zenith, Zenith Marque and Markerstudy) For manual requests / changes, including NCB requests. If this is a general query that would usually be dealt with over the ‘phone, please include ‘OPS POST’ as well as the policy number in the subject line, we will then be able to identify these easily. For all other emails sent please, categorise in the normal way i.e. OPS NON MID / OPS NCB etc. along with the policy number. Processing@markerstudy.com Fleet For any vehicle changes to fleet policies. fleetmid@markerstudy.com For any general fleet policy enquiries (e.g. adding drivers or noting foreign use) or urgent requests (e.g. requests for claims experience, cancellations, transfer of agency, driver referrals). fleetpost@markerstudy.com For all new business enquiries / quotes – access to the Underwriters. fleetquotes@markerstudy.com   Taxi For all Taxi queries / requests. manualreferrals@markerstudy.com   Commercial (Liabilities and Combined Policies) For specific potential claims or queries regarding cover. myclaim@markerstudy.com For policy MTA’s etc. commercial@markerstudy.com Family Fleet For all requests from brokers, quotes, MTA’s etc. FamilyFleet@markerstudy.com Agriculture For all requests from broker, quotes, MTA’s etc. 5873@markerstudy.com Motor Trade For all requests from broker, quotes, MTA’s etc. mtrreferrals@markerstudy.com   Other Supporting Departments Technical underwriting information For all documents/criteria/explanations in relation to claim referrals. Technical@zenith-insurance.co.uk Fraud For all policy fraud enquiries, queries, referrals, CUE and validation. PolicyFraud@markerstudy.com Finance For account queries from Statements and BDX. AQRT@markerstudy.com Data Protection and Statements For DPA and Statement requests. s9requests@markerstudy.com EDI and Technical For police enquiries / DPA requests / Section 29, and any other ‘technical’ policy queries. EDITechnicalteam@markerstudy.com   ·          Loss Adjustors are also able to carry out home visits, following necessary safety guidelines, and pre-agreed with customers. They are also able to conduct their enquiries via video calls if preferred. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/claims-vulnerable-customers-covid-19-–-faqs https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/claims-vulnerable-customers-covid-19-–-faqs Wed, 08 April 2020 11:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 As we confirmed last week we are fully backing the ABI pledges to ensure that we are supporting you and your customers during these uncertain times. We would like to clarify the situation around our stance to customers’ changing circumstances. Change in Occupation You do not need to update the policy, where a customer has been made unemployed or come back into employment as a key worker, we only ask that the customer gets back in touch again if their circumstances change. We would also ask that you set a diary entry to contact the customer after the Government lockdown guidelines are relaxed or at renewal, and to keep us informed then. Vehicle use If your customer now needs to use their vehicle to; drive to get to work, rather than using public transport travel between work locations if a key worker travel or undertake voluntary work, thus resulting in increased mileage volunteer and support the community to make food deliveries which are related to their core occupation You do not need to inform us and their cover will remain unaffected during the Government lockdown, once this is relaxed we will review this guidance. Customers in the European Union who may be unable to get home We will extend cover for them under all sections of their policy as shown in their schedule, whilst they are within the European Union or any other permitted country described in their Policy Wording until the end of the lockdown. You do not need to contact us to update their policy or extend their cover. What happens if customers are unable to provide proof of No Claims Discount and Driving Licence details? What should we do? Please continue to request and validate documentation, where received, for NCD and Driving Licence information whilst the Government lockdown guidelines remain in place. However during this period you do not have to chase or cancel if documentation is not received, please follow-up any non-received documents once the lockdown is over,  We will also be collecting them in the event of any claim and customers will be required to pay any difference in premium due, if discrepancies in details provided are found. Motor (Car, Commercial Vehicle, Motor Cycle) Will cover remain in force if customers are unable to get an MOT during the lockdown period as garages are now closed? Yes, MISL had already agreed for cover to remain without a valid MOT in place, as a direct result of COVID 19 from 16 March. The government have since taken this a step further and announced that from 30 March, all MOT certificates will be granted an automatic 6-month extension as along as vehicles are kept in a roadworthy condition. Can we offer customers ‘laid up’ or ‘suspended’ cover and a reduction in premium if they are not using their vehicle(s) at all during the lockdown? For screen-rated business (car, van and bike), unfortunately not as most software houses cannot accommodate this. It may worth reminding customers it is a legal requirement to have valid car insurance in place unless the customer registers the vehicle off the road and applies for a SORN. For other classes of business including Schemes, we are able to be more flexible and where applicable you will have received communications from us providing details. If you need any further information, please contact your Broker Manager, the relevant Underwriter or brokermanagement@markerstudy.com for an update. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/markerstudy-pledges-in-response-to-covid-19 Wed, 08 April 2020 11:26:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/vision-and-markerstudy-–-working-together-to-help-keyworkers Martin Wills, MD of Vision Vehicles, has pledged to support Markerstudy policyholders from his existing fleet of 600 to fill the shortage of courtesy cars available due to COVID-19.  Gary Humphreys , Group Underwriting Director and Martin have found a solution to the blockage in our usual supply chain, and achieved a simple, effective and hassle-free service for Markerstudy policyholders. It’s a great accomplishment and shows what we can do as an industry when we all work together. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/vision-and-markerstudy-–-working-together-to-help-keyworkers https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/vision-and-markerstudy-–-working-together-to-help-keyworkers Wed, 08 April 2020 11:25:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/auto-windscreen-vans-and-staff-volunteers-help-vulnerable-people-in-kent More positive news! Our Auto Windscreens team has joined forces with staff from our group facilities & maintenance division - Integra, to support Tunbridge Wells Borough Council in delivering essential food and medical supplies to around 1,000 vulnerable residents in the area. Auto Windscreens has lent ten vans from its fleet to the cause, which will be driven by Integra volunteers and from Monday 6th April, the vans will pick up parcels from a central area in Tunbridge Wells and deliver to doorsteps around the borough. Integra has communicated strict protocols to their drivers for handwashing and sanitising, and they’re applying social distancing measures to ensure employee and public safety. The council has launched a hub for vulnerable residents and due to demand, are expecting all ten vans to be in use by the end of the week. Sheree Dawton, Head of Group Property said: “We are delighted to be assisting with efforts in the borough to ensure the most vulnerable of our residents are not left without essential items which many of us take for granted on a daily basis. The team are a credit to Integra, Auto Windscreens and the wider Markerstudy Group family”. James MacBeth, Managing Director at Auto Windscreens, added: “It’s so important to us that we’re able to do something to help people during this difficult period. I’m very proud that our vans are involved in this initiative and hope the sight of them drawing up outside people’s homes will be a source of comfort to those in need.” Councillor Carol Mackonochie, Portfolio Holder for Communities and Wellbeing at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council, commented: “Volunteers and support from other organisations are at the core of our efforts to ensure that no-one is left isolated during this time. We are very grateful to Auto Windscreens and Markerstudy Group for having offered their vans and drivers to us to use for deliveries to vulnerable people.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/auto-windscreen-vans-and-staff-volunteers-help-vulnerable-people-in-kent https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/auto-windscreen-vans-and-staff-volunteers-help-vulnerable-people-in-kent Wed, 08 April 2020 11:24:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/salomons-estate-becomes-temporary-care-hospital Following the temporary closure of Salomons Estate last month due to C-19, we have some positive news to share! With the mounting pressure on local hospitals, Salomons has announced that it will reopen its doors in order to operate as a temporary care hotel. Work is currently underway to convert the country estate’s 47 bedrooms in order to support vulnerable NHS patients, who are not suffering from COVID-19, to provide respite care for them. The estate will work alongside Kent County Council, the NHS and Hilton Nursing Partners to deliver the facility. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/salomons-estate-becomes-temporary-care-hospital https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/april/08/salomons-estate-becomes-temporary-care-hospital Wed, 08 April 2020 11:17:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/march/20/covid-19-customer-update Read the latest in the press from our management team on Covid-19 May The Big Question – How do you think insurance will look post Covid19? – includes comment from Gary Humphreys Insurance Covid-Cast episode 13: Litigation under lockdown – how are lawyers and insurers managing legal disputes during the coronavirus? – participation from Steve Cross Markerstudy's BC plan sees 3,000 employees shift to homeworking Insurance POST analysis: Protecting Pets – includes comment from Ross Hallifax SmartDriverClub research says Brits are back on the roads April Markerstudy and Vision – working together to help keyworkers Coronavirus: Auto Windscreens and Markerstudy delivering food and medical supplies Business as usual for SmartDriverClub during COVID-19 Feature on reduction in motor claims, mentioning Steve Cross Staying insured during coronavirus – Q&A with Andrew Evanson We are closely monitoring the COVID-19 situation and following all guidance and advice issued by the UK government and industry bodies, including the Association of British Insurers (ABI), the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). During these unprecedented times, we are taking action to maintain our service to you, whilst prioritising the welfare and safety of our staff. We will continue to do all that we can to minimise disruption and ensure that our operation remains as unaffected as possible for policyholders. We will be offering a range of communication channels to support a potential decrease in our telephony capability, and encouraging greater use of e-mail, live chat and forums which can be accessed via /policyholders/guidance/how-to-make-a-claim   CONTACTING US: Our aim is to operate ‘Business as Usual’ throughout – providing a 24/7, 365 days a year service to our policyholders.  However, there may be times when we encounter a drop in staff numbers due to sickness absence/self-isolating. To help us deliver the best service to you, we ask that during this time: Existing customers utilise our online self-service portal to renew or make any amends to existing policies. Here you can also find updates on any existing claims and download any required forms ; You only call if absolutely necessary, for example if you have a concern regarding your renewal. We have pledged our support of measures recommended by the ABI, and emphasis will be placed on getting our policyholders back on the road following a claim, and supporting those who are vulnerable, or suffering financial hardship. We really appreciate your patience and understanding during this difficult time. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/march/20/covid-19-customer-update https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/march/20/covid-19-customer-update Fri, 20 March 2020 15:07:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/key-updates-to-broker-hub Online Green Card - our online Green Card tool is now live. If you need to produce a Green Card for your policyholder you can do this on their behalf in minutes. To get started, you need the policyholder’s details and the means to print onto green paper. Our Green Card template is in the Broker Self Help tab on the  Broker Hub . For up-to-date guidance, see government advice for Driving in the EU after Brexit and FAQs on green cards. Visit the  NI Direct Website for Northern Ireland  policyholders  if you need further information.   Online NCD proof - by keeping up with the latest technology we will be able to save you and your customer time.  You can now request NCD proof online through our Broker Hub. You can find out how to do this by clicking  here  and going into the self service portal.   FNOL IVR introduction – we are introducing a new FNOL Interactive Voice Response (IVR) to reduce the FNOL capture handling time which in turn will enhance the customer experience. A customers’ information will be captured in the IVR presenting the agent with an opened FNOL report, making the process quicker and easier for the customer. When your customers need to make a claim make sure you let them know about this service and how it will save them time. PLEASE NOTE: The IVR solution is not available to our Fleet or i90 customers, and where the IVR is not an option, the customer will complete the DPA with a member of staff. IVR is a telephone technology that can read a combination of touch tone and voice input. It gives users the ability to access a database of information via phone – clever stuff! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/key-updates-to-broker-hub https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/key-updates-to-broker-hub Fri, 14 February 2020 11:34:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/focus-on-motorhome-and-fleet-offering Motorhome We offer a number of schemes for Motorhomes and Caravans for holidaying purposes through Zenith Marque, with vehicle values up to £100,000. Benefits include unlimited mileage and foreign use.   We’re pretty good at what we do and enjoy hearing from our broker partners! We recently received a lovely message from Richard House at Devitt’s. Click here to read in full. “Markerstudy provide an always present, highly capable and knowledgeable underwriting service, along with a high level of broker support to discuss current performance along with a proactive attitude to generating ways to increase competitiveness. A pleasure to deal with. Richard House, Devitt Insurance”   Commercial Motor Fleet Headed up by Jamie Bartlett, our in-house fleet team has 100 years’ combined experience so you can trust them to find the right product for you. The team predominantly provides cover for standard car/vans, haulage, coach, courier and taxi fleets. We can offer competitive cover for fleets taking a long-term view on risks where a five year claims experience can be provided. We can also offer in house finance where flees are paying £50,000 or more.  And the great news is policies incepted from 1 st January 2020 (new business and renewals) are written 100% on Qatar Europe Limited A rated paper. Additionally fleet operations are managed in house along with the claims department which has single file ownership on all fleet claims. Benefits include an in-house claims department with single file ownership, and finance can be offered for accounts worth £50,000 or more.   Full testimonial ‘We have been using the Markerstudy’s Motorhome facility for a few years now. The product is applied to our panel to represent our Motorhome affinity.   To help us optimise the affinity and our market standing as a specialist and competitive broker for this field, the team at Markerstudy have always been on hand to work with us to further refine the products footprint and appetite. This includes expanded rating information and club specific requirements can be accommodated and utilised.  We have also benefited recently from a fast turnaround provision of a Net Rated commission scheme as well as renewal and returning customer pilot rating, which is now part of our product. Within the Motorhome market, due to the varying nature of Makes and Models, which include bespoke builds, there is no defining vehicle list.  Instead Markerstudy were able to help overcome this using an alternative approach which provides a simple and effective solution. From a claims perspective, Caravan and Motorhome customers can be quite demanding and have an eye for perfection.  Although claims frequency is relatively low in this sector, we have yet to encounter any complaints or issues in Markerstudy’s claim handling service. Markerstudy provide an always present, highly capable and knowledgeable underwriting service, along with a high level of broker support to discuss current performance along with a proactive attitude to generating ways to increase competitiveness. A pleasure to deal with..’       Richard House, Devitt Insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/focus-on-motorhome-and-fleet-offering https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/focus-on-motorhome-and-fleet-offering Fri, 14 February 2020 09:57:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/markerstudy-introduces-new-appointments Andy Rigby, Head of Technical Underwriting Reporting to Gary Humphreys, Andy joins us from Willis Towers Watson with an established background in Pricing, Machine Learning and AI capability, a combination that is firmly on the agenda for our actuarial and underwriting divisions this year. His previous roles include positions at Hastings and Allianz. In his free time, Andy is a keen traveller, having visited America, Japan, Spain, France and the Netherlands last year alone. When he’s not globe-trotting, he’s a keen DIY-er, and is currently refurbing his new house.  (Any tips/hacks from fellow renovators are very welcome!)   Amanda Fox, Head of Broker Development – PL Nationals Reporting to Anthony Foster, Amanda will be bringing to her new role a wealth of experience in the insurance industry. Starting her career at Norwich Union and going on to work for a variety of Insurance businesses – from start-ups to multinationals, her many strengths include identifying opportunities, negotiation, and achieving profitable growth, underpinned by a great sense of humour! She’ll be bringing these skills and more to developing partnerships within our National Accounts, alongside supporting the delivery of MHR.  When she’s not metaphorically rolling up her sleeves and getting stuck in, she can be found in her home county of Norfolk, cooking up a storm in the kitchen, or enjoying the coastal walks on her doorstep. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/markerstudy-introduces-new-appointments https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/february/14/markerstudy-introduces-new-appointments Fri, 14 February 2020 09:53:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/markerstudy-supports-brokerfest-2020 Markerstudy Insurance is thrilled to be a proud sponsor of this year’s BrokerFest 2020 conference taking place on Tuesday 11 th  February at the etc. Venue, County Hall, London. The day will look at the results of Insurance Times’ 2019/2020 Broker Service Survey and what these mean for brokers and insurers. It will also explore the political and economic outlook and its impact on the market  alongside examining how brokers can thrive in an increasingly digitalised world. During the afternoon three streams will be taking place; Cyber Brokering, Motor Broking and High Net Worth. As part of the Motor Broking Stream, Markerstudy will chair the ‘Trucks and small vans claims management’ 25 minute discussion.   For more information on the day, visit:  http://brokerfest.co.uk/bf19/ https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/markerstudy-supports-brokerfest-2020 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2020/markerstudy-supports-brokerfest-2020 Mon, 10 February 2020 16:42:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/brexit-driving-in-the-eu As we inch towards the Brexit deadline, a no-deal outcome is still in the balance. So as a business, we are prepared for this and want to communicate to you how your policyholders can obtain their Green Card from us, if they plan to drive their vehicle abroad. Vehicles towing a trailer or caravan will also need a separate Green Card for the trailer or caravan. Whether policyholders are travelling before 31 st  October 2019 and returning after this date or simply travelling after that date, they need to contact us 21 days before and a Green Card will be sent in case it is required. For policyholders in Northern Ireland, in the event of a no deal Brexit, they will require a Green Card to travel to Ireland. We will be issuing Green Cards on an annual basis with policies.   Markerstudy Broker Hub Alternatively, you can issue a Green Card to your customers via the Markerstudy Broker Hub , by downloading the Green Card request form and returning it to greencardrequest@markerstudy.com . The Green Card will be returned in a compliant format, however you will be responsible for printing and issuing the Green Card directly to the policyholder. There is no specific size requirement, but the Green Card must be green from edge to edge, front and back. A digital format cannot be presented – policyholders must use a printed hard copy. We are currently working on a self-service function via our Broker Hub, which will allow brokers to issue Green Cards faster. There will be a future communication on this when completed. In the meantime, for the latest instructions, please login to the Broker Hub . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/brexit-driving-in-the-eu https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/brexit-driving-in-the-eu Wed, 16 October 2019 10:30:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/introducing-steve-beard-–-product-head-at-markerstudy Steve joined Markerstudy 11 years ago, so it’s fair to say he knows the business inside out. As part of his remit as Divisional Head for our broker distributed PC products, one area he looks after is telematics data. Here, Steve shares his views on how telematics can support you and your customers. “As connected car vehicle technology becomes mainstream it will provide both the policyholder and insurance provider with additional opportunities of product design, pricing and customer service. I think the market has great potential to grow but brokers have to clearly demonstrate the value to their customers. They need reassurance in order to shift their perception that they have something to fear from being recorded. Policyholders need to trust us, and the technology, and see the value a telematics policy can bring. From providing the customer with handy information such as MOT reminders, as well as giving peace of mind and additional rewards for good driving, we know that customers aren’t just looking for cheap prices but they want the right cover and innovation too. It’s our duty to communicate these options to them. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/introducing-steve-beard-–-product-head-at-markerstudy https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/introducing-steve-beard-–-product-head-at-markerstudy Wed, 16 October 2019 10:24:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/gary’s-preamble Sequins and spray-tans! In an industry which has been accused of being in the dark ages, but is heading towards the light, I for one am pleased with the sea change taking place. I can’t open a magazine at the moment without seeing headlines relating to diversity, equality and mental wellbeing, and this pleases me enormously.  I’m enjoying the cages being rattled, and reading the reform plans of organisations that are ‘upping their game’ (and about time, too!). I’m a husband and a father of daughters and sons, so I’m a keen advocate for fairness.  The Markerstudy culture is driven from the top down, and I believe sets us apart from our contemporaries.  We’ve never had a ‘glass ceiling’, as our senior management team will testify, and we don’t shy away from frank discussions about our policies and procedures. I’m proud to say there are equal opportunities for all throughout our group and positions are filled by the person best qualified to do the job, whatever their gender.  So what does a Saturday evening look like in the Humphreys’ household? I’m unabashed to say I enjoy the sequins and spray tans of ‘Strictly’ as much as the premier league action. The former is a big favourite with my youngest daughter, Lottie, in particular, and although I can wear my Spurs top, I struggle with the spandex!! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/gary’s-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/october/16/gary’s-preamble Wed, 16 October 2019 10:20:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/mobilers-the-catering-insurance-specialist Through our Mobilers brand we offer a range of bespoke liability insurance products across the catering industry and related sectors. Our market leading Mobilers insurance has been trading for over 25 years and specialises in: Mobile, static, catering and non-catering insurance! Mobilers provides cover for commercial combined packages along with liability insurance and can cover everything from choirs, bouncy castles and book signings to arts and craft stalls. Additionally, Mobilers provides specialist insurance for hot and cold vehicles, including ice cream vehicles, mobile trailers and portable cabins. Mobilers offer schemes for Brokers within the UK (including Northern Ireland). With a comprehensive range of product providers, we are the leading Broker for the Catering Industry. Call us today on 01384 429904 or to find out more information visit our website . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/mobilers-the-catering-insurance-specialist https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/mobilers-the-catering-insurance-specialist Wed, 17 April 2019 12:40:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/how-your-feedback-improves-the-customer’s-experience You and your customers are always our Number 1 priority. Every decision we make is customer inspired, and feedback fuels our innovation. To that end, MISL has made some bold changes.  All customer-facing activity has now been centralised into the new Operational Performance Division with a dedicated ‘Voice of Customer’ team responsible for: Targeted coaching and on-going training Supporting the rollout of the frictionless customer journey Proactively identifying what is important to our customers and keeping up with changing needs In addition, we are: Developing our FNOL solution - the aim is for most RTA claims to be reported online, with the customer selecting their preferred repairer from a list of approved garages, and choosing a booking in date/time to suit them – all of this in real time.  The customer will be able to track their repair through to conclusion. Enhancing exception management claims processing – tracking claims to make sure they progress as expected.  The customer will receive regular texts at key stages of the claim to keep them updated on the progress being made. Improving customer satisfaction scoring which will enable us to constantly review and improve the customer journey. Introducing Voice Analytics – to monitor calls and automatically highlight cases where expectations haven’t been met.  These cases can quickly be identified and put back on track. Here’s a few numbers to give you an idea of the size of the MISL FNOL operation.  In terms of our 24/7 FNOL calls for 2018: 169,641 calls handled 97.5% of calls offered answered with 83.7% answered within 20 seconds Average speed of answer = 30 seconds Below are the customer satisfaction scores from the surveys we send out: 7,514 surveys completed 43.04% scored us full marks NPS score of 59.9% Keep talking to us and we’ll keep working on improving the customer experience. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/how-your-feedback-improves-the-customer’s-experience https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/how-your-feedback-improves-the-customer’s-experience Wed, 17 April 2019 12:14:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/technology-developments-driving-us-forward Markerstudy Hosted Rating (MHR)   We’re excited to share with you our latest innovation which will be available to brokers later this year - Markerstudy Hosted Rating (MHR), our new rating platform. MHR will give you access to all of our Private Car and Commercial Vehicle rates via a single scheme for each line of business. By aligning the policy terms and conditions through a single scheme we have created a proposition where we will always provide the customer with our best price from any product in the Markerstudy range, including mid-term adjustments, without having to re-broke business to a different scheme. The new technology also gives us the ability to launch new rates quickly and easily via one simple integration with distributers, allowing us to move agilely when looking to innovate or expand. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/technology-developments-driving-us-forward https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/technology-developments-driving-us-forward Wed, 17 April 2019 11:59:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/garys-preamble The clocks have sprung forward, we’ve avoided falling foul of April Fools' Day pranks (although looking at my caricature, you’d be forgiven for thinking I’ve been had!) and Easter holidays are beckoning! This is a great time of year for our industry; the season where classic car enthusiasts remove dust sheets, put the hood down, and take to the roads once more. Fair-weather motorcyclists buff their chrome and rev up their engines, and our arterial routes congest with caravans, campervans and horse boxes – which means we collectively enjoy the spoils of policies being renewed. Sadly, it may also involve green cards once more. MSG FRINGE at BIBA   With May hovering (that's the month not our PM!) the BIBA Conference is soon to be upon us. If you fancy taking a break from the hub-bub on Wednesday afternoon (15th May), the esteemed Markerstudy crew will be taking up residence at The Refinery . You’re very welcome to come and say hello – but let us know in advance by emailing broker management at brokermanagement@markerstudy.com. And what better way to sign off this issue than to share more of our ‘Fringe’ caricatures…As you can see, we’re still ‘putting the fun in insurance’! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/garys-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/april/17/garys-preamble Wed, 17 April 2019 00:00:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/march/25/new-head-of-group-contact-centres-at-markerstudy-(1) Russell Wilson has been appointed to the new position of Head of Group Contact Centres for Markerstudy Group of Companies. Taking up the role with immediate effect, Russell is an example of home-grown talent, having joined the group in 2009 as a Team Leader for Chaucer Direct.  Russell was promoted to Operations Manager in 2014, and to Head of Direct in August 2018.  During this time he has embraced the acquisition of Chaucer Direct by Markerstudy, and the development of the new brand Geoffrey Insurance. Russell has been instrumental in Geoffrey Insurance becoming a market leader in customer service, with his team winning numerous awards and also achieving a Defaqto 5 star rating for both car and commercial vehicle insurance. Dan Fiehn, Markerstudy Group Chief Operating Officer commented “Russell has more than 20 years’ experience in operations and insurance call centres, and has positioned himself as the ideal candidate to lead our group contact centres into a new and vibrant chapter of evolution, ensuring our customers continue to receive an award-winning experience”. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/march/25/new-head-of-group-contact-centres-at-markerstudy-(1) https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/march/25/new-head-of-group-contact-centres-at-markerstudy-(1) Mon, 25 March 2019 10:34:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/february/20/markerstudy’s-gary-humphreys-joins-mgaa-board 20 February 2019 – The Managing General Agents’ Association ( MGAA ) has announced the appointment of Gary Humphreys, group underwriting director at Markerstudy Group as a new board director at its annual general meeting yesterday. Humphreys is co-founder of the Markerstudy Group, the UK’s largest MGA. The Group, a member of the MGAA, includes Zenith Insurance and Markerstudy Insurance Services, and recently acquired the Co-op’s underwriting business, CIS General Insurance Limited, subject to regulatory approval. The MGAA also re-elected Jonathan Skinner, Pen Underwriting’s capacity director, for a further 12-month term. Skinner and Humphreys join the board as representatives from the two largest MGA members, in line with the MGAA’s Articles of Association. The pair join existing board members Catherine Bell of inet3, Mark Birrell of Castel Underwriting Agencies, Marco Del Carlo of Tempo Underwriting, Charles Earle of Advent Solutions, Bill O’Malley of Arch Insurance, Keith Stern of Lloyd’s, Jeff Turner of Miramar Underwriting, Charles Manchester, MGAA chairman and CEO of Manchester Underwriting Management, and Peter Staddon, the Association’s managing director. Speaking about Gary’s appointment, Peter Staddon said: “Gary brings a combination of entrepreneurial flair and almost 40 years of industry experience to the board. His addition brings yet more strength and depth to the Association, and is, I feel, a reflection of the DNA of many of our MGA members. “Association members write around £6bn in gross written premium in the UK annually, and represent one of the fastest growing sectors of the UK insurance industry. The MGAA exists to promote and support this growth, to drive engagement with brokers and support industry best practice.” ENDS https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/february/20/markerstudy’s-gary-humphreys-joins-mgaa-board https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/february/20/markerstudy’s-gary-humphreys-joins-mgaa-board Wed, 20 February 2019 08:26:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/markerstudy-bags-co-op-insurance Co-op will receive £185m for its underwriting business and enter a 13 year distribution agreement that will support continued long-term returns Co-op will continue to sell insurance products and increase the range of products available to Co-op members   The Co-op is today announcing the sale of its underwriting business, CIS General Insurance Limited to Markerstudy, whilst also confirming a 13 year agreement with Markerstudy to distribute motor and home insurance products. The Co-op will focus on providing a broader range of insurance products through its distribution business Co-op Insurance Services Limited and will develop innovative propositions with Markerstudy, whilst continuing to work with its existing partners. Alongside its innovative product range and strong technology capability, a key part of the selection of Markerstudy as the Co-op’s partner for home and motor insurance, was their desire to create an environment that facilitates expansion and growth as well as its commitment to retain a large number of colleague roles. The transaction is expected to complete in Q2 2019, subject to PRA and FCA approval. Pippa Wicks, Deputy CEO at Co-op said: “From the outset we’ve been very clear that we intend to enhance our insurance offer for Co-op members and this agreement provides the means for us to do this in an effective way.  Markerstudy have shown a clear willingness to partner with us, and to develop a compelling range of products which will increase our insurance footprint and extend our Co-op difference.  “The Co-op has a long and distinguished history in providing insurance for its members and I’m delighted that this will continue through our partnership with Markerstudy.  We have always been mindful of our insurance colleagues and a key factor in our selection was the commitment given by Markerstudy to maintain and then look to expand the operation.”  Kevin Spencer, Group CEO of Markerstudy Group said: “We are delighted to have been chosen by the Co-op.  Our roots are firmly in the UK insurance industry, where we provide cover to more than 1.5 million customers, and offer value and choice, coupled with award-winning service. Our purchase of the Co-op’s insurance underwriting business and the arrangement to provide insurance products to its members is testimony to our robust business model and investment in our people and technology.   “This is an exciting partnership opportunity for us, where we hope to combine our experience and expertise into a shared vision of success, enabling us to assume a significant role in the longevity of this cherished household name.” HFW acted as legal advisers, and TwinFocus and GSO Capital Partners acted as financial advisers to Markerstudy. Fenchurch Advisory Partners acted as financial adviser to Co-op in this transaction, with Allen & Overy acting as principal legal advisers to Co-op.  ENDS   For more information please contact: Markerstudy Lizzie Smith-Foreman / Lsmith-foreman@markerstudy.com / 07875 652075 Charlie North / Cnorth@markerstudy.com / 01246 223130   Co-op Russ Brady / russ.brady@coop.co.uk / 07880 784 442 Jenna Moss / jenna.moss@coop.co.uk / 07770 441 828   Notes to Editors About Markerstudy Group Markerstudy Group of Companies (MSG) is a privately-owned UK organisation headquartered in Kent and employing over 3,000 employees. Established in 2001, it has been recognised as a Best Company to Work For in the UK at The Sunday Times Best Companies Awards for five consecutive years and was a Top 5 company in 2017 in the Best Big Companies category. In 2018 it developed the largest MGA in the UK, Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited (MISL), supporting over 1,000 broker partners and more than 1.5 million policyholders with a wide variety of insurance products.   The group’s portfolio includes the Markerstudy Retail and Affinity division which operates BDML Connect Limited, one of the UK’s largest affinity based insurance intermediaries for pet insurance.  The Group also includes Auto Windscreens, VisionTrack, Vision Vehicle Solutions Limited, as well as Markerstudy Direct Limited, operating brands Geoffrey Insurance Services and Zenith Direct.   About the Co-op The Co-op is one of the world’s largest consumer co-operatives with interests across food, funerals, insurance, legal services and an online electrical store. It has a clear purpose of championing a better way of doing business for you and your communities. Owned by millions of UK consumers, the Co-op operates 2,600 food stores, over 1,000 funeral homes and it provides products to over 5,100 other stores, including those run by independent co-operative societies and through its wholesale business, Nisa Retail Limited. It has more than 63,000 colleagues and an annual revenue of £9.5bn. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/markerstudy-bags-co-op-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/markerstudy-bags-co-op-insurance Thu, 24 January 2019 18:44:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/misl-scoops-four-star-moneyfacts-rating Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited is thrilled to have been awarded a Four-Star Rating for its Private Car cover after the announcement of Moneyfacts annual assessment of the car insurance market.     The ratings look at the policy features, as well as the competitiveness of the cover limits. The Moneyfacts Car Insurance Star Ratings offer consumers confidence that the insurance policy of their choice provides all the protection they require and allows them to focus on finding the policy that will be the most suitable for their individual needs. Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director of Markerstudy, commented: “Receiving the Moneyfacts Four-Star Rating Award is testament to the hard work that Markerstudy staff have put in to making both our product and our customer service outstanding. We are very proud of this accolade.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/misl-scoops-four-star-moneyfacts-rating https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2019/misl-scoops-four-star-moneyfacts-rating Wed, 23 January 2019 16:41:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/new-‘dashcam’-commercial-vehicle-product-in-partnership-with-visiontrack The commercial arm of the business is delighted to announce a new product for individually insured commercial vehicles using dash cam technology from VisionTrack. VisionTrack, part of Markerstudy Group, is a leading provider of cloud based video telematics and the new policy includes their VT112 dash cam which captures driving footage in HD, has motion detection, ultra-wide lens and loop recording.  If a driver is involved in an incident and they have video evidence that will verify liability via their VT112 dash cam, the £1000 excess on the policy will be waived. The product has gone live with a number of broker partners on CDL. Dave Drury, Divisional Head at Markerstudy commented: “This new product is designed to provide something different to our broker partners and adds a unique benefit to our customers. VisionTrack is a leader in the market so we’re delighted to have them on board and see the proposition being adopted quickly across the market.” Simon Marsh, Managing Director of VisionTrack added: “I’m passionate about road safety and increasing transparency when it comes to claims and helping to tackle fraud and exaggerated claims.” For more information please contact Simon Dicks: SDicks@visiontrack.com https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/new-‘dashcam’-commercial-vehicle-product-in-partnership-with-visiontrack https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/new-‘dashcam’-commercial-vehicle-product-in-partnership-with-visiontrack Wed, 19 September 2018 11:34:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/all-things-covered I would like to begin by saying thank you for supporting us by returning your TOBAs within the designated deadline, ensuring uninterrupted trading with us under MISL. This month Gary Humphreys and I attended the UK Broker Awards, held at The Brewery, London on the 14 th September. The event celebrated the best in broking with more than a few laughs thrown in by Comedian, Tom Allen. It was a great day and congratulations to all the winners, including StaySure, who won the coveted award for Personal Lines Broker of the Year – presented by Gary. In a bid to move with the times we have eliminated all the manual cover notes that we used previously in favour of downloadable cover notes that can be tailored for your specific needs. These can be found in our broker portal and will include all relevant info for your transactions.  We’re very sad to say farewell to Amy Jennings who is moving on to pastures new in the education sector. We have therefore recruited a familiar face (to us) in the form of Geoffrey employee, Giles Driver. After giving over 5 years of loyal service to Geoffrey, Giles will be joining the Broker Management support team in Whitstable, under the management of Ryan Drake, on the 1 st October. Giles brings excellent sales and communication skills and has a methodical approach to problem solving. It is now time for him to face a new challenge in the world of broker management! A number of us will be attending Broker Expo in November – we hope to see you there! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/all-things-covered https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/all-things-covered Wed, 19 September 2018 11:34:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/gary’s-pre-amble-welcome-to-misl I hope that you’ve enjoyed a great break over the summer and it isn’t too much of a shock getting back to work. We’ve had a particularly busy period preparing for our new status as an MGA and the launch of Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited (MISL). In fact, you might be forgiven for thinking that you can’t escape us this month!  Not only are we adorning the cover of Insurance Age Magazine with our ‘promised land’ creative, but you’ll also spot a few familiar faces featured on our first advert for some time - along with my thoughts on why you would choose an MGA for personal lines business! As Markerstudy has evolved considerably, the summer has, for me, been the perfect time to take stock and explore how we can really add value to your business. It is no longer us taking the brunt of the risk but I would like to assure you that we will be treating all of our transactions as if it is our own money at stake, supporting your goals and protecting your interest and customers. As ever, our focus will also be on opportunities and how we can adapt. Where is there room for improvement?! Let us know! We recently sponsored Insurance 2025 which explored what the future will look like in this arena. The event showcased a number of stimulating discussions from insurance leaders but it was key note speaker, Christian Majgaad, former executive of toy manufacturer Lego, whose advice struck a cord. Talking about the highs and lows and overcoming various hurdles over the years, he reasoned, “always make the child the hero”. For us ‘the child’ would be the customer and the same sentiment still stands – we must put them at the centre of what we do. They trust us to look after them when they need our help. If we can do this to the best of our ability we can all prosper. There are many businesses doing an incredible job and embarking on impressive and innovative new ventures. As we begin our own new venture as an MGA I hope that we can make you and your customers ‘the hero’. One thing is certain – there are exciting times ahead. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/gary’s-pre-amble-welcome-to-misl https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/september/19/gary’s-pre-amble-welcome-to-misl Wed, 19 September 2018 11:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/july/09/travel-takes-off-on-trice-as-white-horse-insurance-joins-app Markerstudy has announced that it has added travel insurance to its  TRICE  app offering with policies underwritten by White Horse Insurance.  The product was launched today in time for the summer holidays and includes benefits such as access to a 24/7 UK GP included as standard, plus the option to add cover eight hours into arriving at a destination.  Travel joins annual motor, temporary motor, gadget and pet insurance on the app which claims to quote in as little as 60 seconds and is powered by insurtech provider, RDT.  Sam Edge, Director of Business Development at TRICE commented: “I’m delighted to welcome travel onto the app. It’s perfect for the holiday season and really boosts the current portfolio. Developing the travel offering with White Horse Insurance has added both a unique and extensive product and buying experience for the customer. I would also like to thank Phil Denman, Managing Director of Healix who was instrumental in helping us form this new partnership.”    Brian House, Managing Director of White Horse Insurance commented: “White Horse are delighted to be part of the TRICE ecosystem. Their state of the art approach to insurance is perfectly aligned with our innovative approach to travel insurance, ensuring customers get the cover they need, quickly and easily.” Markerstudy has a long standing relationship with Healix, providing travel insurance for non-standard travel via  Insurance Choice  which specialises in cover for customers with pre-existing medical conditions. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/july/09/travel-takes-off-on-trice-as-white-horse-insurance-joins-app https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/july/09/travel-takes-off-on-trice-as-white-horse-insurance-joins-app Mon, 09 July 2018 09:57:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/june/05/markerstudy-dubs-its-new-mga-‘misl’-(2) In a drive designed to simplify the operation for partners and customers alike, Markerstudy is set to consolidate the entities currently acting as service companies for Markerstudy Group, namely Markerstudy Limited, Zenith Insurance Management UK Limited, and Zenith Marque Insurance Services Limited. The new name bestowed to this powerhouse MGA is Markerstudy Insurance Services Limited (MISL). MISL will deliver the breadth of expertise currently undertaken, including underwriting, operational and claims services, to their 1,000 plus broker partners and over 1.5 million policy holders, but with no changes to key personnel envisaged. Speaking of the unification, Markerstudy Group CEO Kevin Spencer expressed “Having recently celebrated our 17 th anniversary, the timing of this development is prophetic.  Throughout almost two decades we’ve focused on tactical expansion, and we are now positioned as the largest MGA in the UK. This is a pillar upon which we will build our future growth and I relish the opportunity to begin a new chapter in our history.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/june/05/markerstudy-dubs-its-new-mga-‘misl’-(2) https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/june/05/markerstudy-dubs-its-new-mga-‘misl’-(2) Tue, 05 June 2018 09:23:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/11/visiontrack-launches-deep-learning-ai-capability-with-technology-centre Our leading in-vehicle video telematics provider , VisionTrack, has unveiled a new technology room at their headquarters in Tunbridge Wells to showcase its new offering in deep learning and AI. Designed for partners and adopters of its cutting edge technology, the technology room will display the full package available to clients including VisionTrack’s newest ADAS cameras which detect driver fatigue, smoking and using a mobile phone at the wheel.   VisionTrack also introduced a new First Notification of Loss (FNOL) service last week ( www.FNOL.co.uk ) which is available to white label, allowing businesses to log in via a single sign on directly to the platform, seamlessly combining live event footage, statistics and telematics data in a bid to cut costs and potential fraud for claims management companies and insurers.   Simon Marsh, Managing Director of VisionTrack commented: “We’ve embarked on working in the AI space with machine to machine learning, evolving our IoT platform to incorporate cameras that are so advanced that they will recognise and alert potentially hazardous driving behaviour such as using a mobile phone whilst driving or falling asleep at the wheel. This data could be invaluable to insurers in predicting risk ratio and potential hazards before they occur. I’m delighted that we have incorporated a dedicated technology centre into our business to give our partners maximum support for our rapidly expanding offering.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/11/visiontrack-launches-deep-learning-ai-capability-with-technology-centre https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/11/visiontrack-launches-deep-learning-ai-capability-with-technology-centre Fri, 11 May 2018 14:47:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/storming-ahead-in-innovation We’ve enjoyed a very successful first quarter when it comes to innovation, scooping another award for the 4 th year in a row from Celent Model Insurer for innovations in our private car AI platform in the ‘ Data, Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence ’ category. Our Director of IT, Dan Fiehn was also numbered 69 in the CIO Top 100, which recognises the most transformative and disruptive CIOs in the UK and celebrates technology and business leaders driving change in successful organisations. Dan, commented: “We’ve become increasingly data driven, and through our own large group IT department, ‘M-Powered’, have developed an advanced analytics team. We use our information to provide innovative solutions for our group businesses, incorporating the latest technologies including, Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning and predictive AI, giving us the opportunity to generate a truly bespoke rating method for each customer as well as identify the optimal price point for renewal.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/storming-ahead-in-innovation https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/storming-ahead-in-innovation Fri, 11 May 2018 14:45:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/a-walk-down-memory-lane In celebration of our 17 th anniversary, we’ve blown the cobwebs from our advert designs of recent years. Here’s a Markerstudy medley of our favourites – spot the Broker Manager! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/a-walk-down-memory-lane https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/a-walk-down-memory-lane Fri, 11 May 2018 14:41:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/return-of-the-jedi-brigden-is-back! Our Retail Division has been busy securing fresh talent, including one face that will be familiar to many of you, Michael Brigden, who is ‘returning to roost’ as Business Development Manager for gadget provider, Supercover Insurance. (Read more) Formally a Broker Manager for Markerstudy, Brigden found the separation too much, commenting: “I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to return to Markerstudy in the role of Supercover Business Development Manager. My past role as a Broker Manager at Markerstudy and my time away heading up business development for a fast growing, successful brokerage in Manchester have really helped my career development. I’m excited to be back in the ‘family’ and can’t wait to bring my experience to a different part of the group.” Managing Director of Retail and Affinity, Ross Barrington added: “We’re always keen to welcome back promising talent and the appointment of Michael reflects our ambitious plans for growth. His market knowledge strengthens what he brings to the business and he’s established a strong external network which will serve Supercover well. I’d like to wish him the best of luck in his new role.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/return-of-the-jedi-brigden-is-back! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/return-of-the-jedi-brigden-is-back! Fri, 11 May 2018 14:37:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/garys-preamble-may-the-4th-be-with-you Recently we celebrated our 17th birthday on the 4th May, playing on the infamous Star Wars slogan to mark the occasion with our friends and employees. Various memes sprung up of Kevin Spencer as Yoda and myself as Hans Solo. Keith Barber was, of course, Chewbacca. I like to think that our Markerstudy journey has almost been as dramatic as some of the Star Wars instalments; undoubtedly there have been moments where we’ve had to fight for what we believe in in order to achieve our long term vision and goals. In the end we’ve always triumphed (albeit without a lightsabre in sight). Kevin and I are older and wiser and have experienced so many challenges and changes along the way but one thing has remained constant – we still believe in creating a legacy and that together we are stronger. Good luck to those who are embarking on the madness that is BIBA – look out for our Broker Management team in Manchester … and finally – hold on tight – we are about to make the jump to light speed again! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/garys-preamble-may-the-4th-be-with-you https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/garys-preamble-may-the-4th-be-with-you Fri, 11 May 2018 14:34:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/03/markerstudy-scoops-‘data,-analytics-and-artificial-intelligence’-trophy-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2018 Markerstudy is celebrating a fourth year of success as a ‘Celent Model Insurer’, after scooping an award for its private car AI platform in the ‘ Data, Analytics, and Artificial Intelligence ’ category at Celent’s Innovation and Insight Day in Boston on 24 th April. The accolade rewards excellence in insurance technology from businesses based in Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and North America. Known predominantly for its Markerstudy and Zenith insurance products, Markerstudy Group of Companies includes other household brands such as Auto Windscreens, classic car specialist Lancaster Insurance, gadget insurance expert Supercover, as well as a burgeoning Retail division.   The winning submission was based on Markerstudy’s successful creation and implementation of an AI platform, used to optimise customer acquisition and retention for the private car business of its Retail insurance broker, The Insurance Factory.   Dan Fiehn, Group IT Director for Markerstudy, who was recently named number 69 in the 2018 CIO 100 list, said: “We’ve become increasingly data driven, and through our own large group IT department, have developed an advanced analytics team. We use our information to provide innovative solutions for our group businesses, incorporating the latest technologies including machine learning and predictive AI. The platform for The Insurance Factory has brought all this together, giving us the opportunity to generate a truly bespoke rating method for each customer as well as identify the optimal price point for renewal. We’re getting results too – we’ve doubled the number of leads we’re converting to sales.   “To be recognised four years in a row by Celent is a dream come true. We’re always looking for unique approaches which take advantage of our key differentiators – our data and our people. This award reinforces our position at the forefront of technology in the insurance industry, and quite simply, we’re delighted.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/03/markerstudy-scoops-‘data,-analytics-and-artificial-intelligence’-trophy-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2018 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/may/03/markerstudy-scoops-‘data,-analytics-and-artificial-intelligence’-trophy-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2018 Thu, 03 May 2018 11:26:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/april/18/markerstudy-joins-brolly-app-panel Markerstudy has announced that it has joined the panel of insurers on the new app by insurance start-up,  Brolly . It will be providing insurance for motor and gadget for the app from 10 April. The offering includes motor insurance via  Zenith Insurance  and gadget insurance via  Supercover , which will be white-labelled under the Brolly branding. It joins AXA, Ageas and LV, providing insurance for motor in a couple of minutes. Brolly is a next-generation insurance aggregator, powered by artificial intelligence. Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Management commented: “We’re always looking for exciting opportunities for business, especially in the insurtech sphere. Distributing our products on apps with promising partners like Brolly is a strategic step that enables us to widen our scope and reach new customers. We’re very pleased to be one of the first insurers to work with Brolly on this new venture.”  Phoebe Hugh, CEO and founder of Brolly added: “We are delighted to have Markerstudy on board, as a Motor insurance panel provider. At Brolly we help people understand their own insurance needs, find the best policies, and then manage them simply and easily as circumstances change. People are blindly overspending and buying the wrong cover - so we’re using technology to stop that from happening.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/april/18/markerstudy-joins-brolly-app-panel https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/april/18/markerstudy-joins-brolly-app-panel Wed, 18 April 2018 11:05:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/15/rally-ing-support-for-trice We’re backing reigning British GT Champion, Rick Parfitt Junior for the third year in a row as he battles for victory with a new co-driver in the British GT Championship 2018.  Rick Parfitt Jnr is bidding to defend his GT3 title after announcing that Ryan Ratcliffe will join Team Parker Racing’s #1 Bentley Continental GT3 line-up. With a mutual devotion to speed, there was no doubt in our minds that TRICE would be the perfect partnership and brand for this great endeavour. Director of Business Development, Sam Edge commented: “We’re ecstatic that TRICE will have ‘pole position’ on Rick’s Bentley. We already know that he is a champion driver and is sure to be ‘bringing the thunder’. When it comes to racing we know that every second counts and as TRICE is the fastest insurance app on the market this duo is sure to break records.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/15/rally-ing-support-for-trice https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/15/rally-ing-support-for-trice Thu, 15 March 2018 16:32:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/barking-mad-consumer-campaign Our TV commercial has received a fair amount of media attention already and you may be wondering why we chose to break with convention and feature an unusual subject matter for our advert? This is known as ‘Puppy Play’ and it’s received a fair amount of media attention recently, with 12,000 people in the UK said to participate in role-playing as a ‘puppy’. You may be wondering why we chose to break with convention and feature an unusual subject matter for our advert? That’s easy – firstly, we are Markerstudy after all, and secondly, we’re deliberately seeking to spark debate and get tongues wagging... You’re probably discussing it with your colleagues at this very minute? If you didn’t know, it’s called ‘Puppy Play’ and 12,000 people in the UK are said to participate in role-playing as a ‘puppy’. TRiCE is a different way to buy insurance. And puppy play is a different way for some people to express themselves. The TRiCE app gives everyone more time to enjoy their spare time, whatever they may choose to do! Enjoy watching! And you might like to share it with your social network, too. As always, we would love to hear your feedback. And as an added incentive, the first 50 responses will receive a TRiCE Frisbee (like the one in the ad)! WATCH OUR TV CAMPAIGN https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/barking-mad-consumer-campaign https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/barking-mad-consumer-campaign Thu, 15 March 2018 15:54:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/15/garys-preamble It’s been a few months since we updated you on TRiCE, our new app combining annual and temporary motor, pet and gadget products and – coming soon – travel and home.  Many of you have joined us on this new and exciting journey and we’re keen to keep you all informed. Our development teams are continuing to work on the broker proposition, but whilst they do their thing, we’ve been busy planning a TV and online campaign to build brand awareness. I’m delighted to share with you the link to our new TRiCE TV commercial which you’ll be able to catch from next Monday 19 th March, on the following channels: BT Sports, Sky1, Sky News, Channel 4 – Sunday Brunch, Dave, Comedy Central, Film4, Home and Good Food. Our launch ‘spot’ will be on the morning of 19 th March in the ITV Breakfast ‘Good Morning Britain’ commercial break – at 06.55 so you may want to set an alarm?! WATCH OUR TV CAMPAIGN https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/15/garys-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/march/15/garys-preamble Thu, 15 March 2018 15:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/february/06/cost-of-car-insurance-fraud-to-victims-revealed-in-new-police-campaign City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department launches campaign to raise awareness of fraudsters selling fake car insurance and warn motorists to ‘Steer Clear of Fraud’ Over 850 reports of ghost broking have been reported to Action Fraud in last three years, with reported losses from individuals and organisations totalling £631,000 Individual victims of ghost brokers lose on average £769 Ghost brokers typically target men in their 20s, using social media The City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department ( IFED ) has launched a national awareness campaign today to warn motorists about the dangers of buying fake car insurance from fraudsters, also known as ‘ghost brokers’, who are potentially leaving thousands 1  of unsuspecting victims driving without insurance.  Extent of the problem From November 2014 – October 2017, Action Fraud, the national fraud and cyber reporting centre, hosted by the City of London Police, received more than 850 reports linked to ghost broking, with reported losses for both individuals and organisations totalling £631,000 2 . On average, each individual victim lost £769 3  from this type of fraud. Of these reports, 417 resulted in action being taken against the offenders by IFED following their investigations into ghost broking over the past three years, which included a  man who set up 133 fake policies , a  teenage ghost broker who was sentenced to jail  and a  man who made £59,000 from ghost broking . However, it is thought that the true number of ghost broking victims may be much higher than this figure, as some motorists may be driving on the roads right now unaware that their policy is fraudulent. It is only when they are stopped by police or attempt to make a claim will they find out that they don’t have genuine cover. This leads police to believe that ghost broking is actually being under reported each year due to the way ghost brokers deceive motorists into thinking they have legitimate insurance, when in fact it’s worthless.   What is ghost broking? Ghost broking is the name given to a tactic used by fraudsters who sell fraudulent car insurance by a number of different methods. They typically carry out the fraud by one of three ways: they will either forge insurance documents, falsify the driver’s details to bring the price down or take out a genuine policy, before cancelling it soon after and claiming the refund plus the victim’s money. It is a legal obligation to have valid car insurance and without it victims will experience the severe harm caused by ghost broking, including: -          Points on their driving licence -          Vehicle seizure and possible destruction of it -          A fixed penalty notice -          Costs to retrieve impounded vehicle -          Liable for claims costs if involved in an accident This is on top of the money motorists will have lost buying the invalid car insurance and the money they will have to spend to then buy a legitimate insurance policy. IFED analysis into the ghost broking reports reveals that men, aged 20-29, are most likely to get targeted and that the most common method ghost brokers will use to make initial contact with people is through social media, particularly Facebook and Instagram. Other contact methods include adverts in newspapers and magazines, cold calls and being introduced, either directly or by friends, family members or work colleagues. Stay safe when buying car insurance In light of these worrying figures, IFED is encouraging drivers to be wary of heavily discounted prices on the internet or cheap prices they’re offered directly for car insurance, as they may well be ghost brokers. Throughout the campaign, IFED will be sending out messages on social media using the hashtag #SteerClearOfFraud to tell people how they can protect themselves, while leaflets about ghost broking will also be made available free to download on IFED’s dedicated ghost broking website. IFED is issuing the following advice and tips to help drivers avoid falling victim to ghost brokers: Trust your instincts – if an offer looks too good to be true, then it probably is. Ghost brokers often advertise on student websites or money-saving forums, university notice boards and marketplace websites. They may also try to sell insurance policies in pubs, clubs or bars, newsagents and car repair shops. Be wary of ghost brokers using only mobile phone or email as a way of contact. Ghost brokers have even been reported using messaging apps, including WhatsApp, Snapchat and Facebook. Fraudsters don’t want to be traced after they’ve taken your money. If you are not sure about the broker, check on the Financial Conduct Authority or the British Insurance Brokers’ Association website for a full list of all authorised insurance brokers:  register.fca.org.uk   and  biba.org.uk . You can also contact the insurance company directly to verify the broker’s details. You can check to see if your car is legitimately insured on the Motor Insurance Database website:  ownvehicle.askmid.com .    Detective Chief Inspector Andy Fyfe, Head of the City of London Police’s Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department, said: “Ghost brokers trick unsuspecting victims with offers of heavily discounted car insurance, leaving them with a policy that isn’t worth the paper it’s written on and open to the severe harm that comes with driving without valid insurance. Being able to drive is vital for a lot people, whether it be to get to work or pick up their children from school or nursery, so if they fall victim to a ghost broker it could not only impact on them financially but also seriously affect their day to day life and make things very difficult. “As well as the personal harm experienced by victims, ghost brokers also cause financial harm to the insurance industry, driving up the cost of insurance premiums for all motorists. “While an offer of cheap car insurance may seem tempting, falling victim to ghost broking will end up costing you far more in the long run – both in terms of money and your licence.” Mark Allen, Fraud and Financial Crime Manager at the Association of British Insurers (ABI), said: “Driving without valid motor insurance is a crime full stop. Always be on your guard against someone offering you a deal that looks too good to be true. The chances of you getting caught are greater than ever, and a criminal conviction for driving uninsured will make getting future insurance much more expensive. Stay legal on the road by shopping around in a very competitive motor insurance market for the right motor insurance policy at the best price.” Ben Fletcher, Director of the Insurance Fraud Bureau, said: “Ghost broking is a complex issue and one that we do not take lightly. Ghost brokers often target vulnerable people or communities, but we do also sometimes see cases where people have knowingly bought fraudulent or invalid policies in an effort to pinch the pennies. “It is essential that we raise awareness about the issue of ghost broking to stop innocent victims being targeted and to educate those who may consider buying insurance from a disreputable source. We work closely with police and insurers to track all those involved in ghost broking scams in order to bring about charges for those guilty parties.” If you have or think you have been a victim of ghost broking, get in touch with IFED via phone on 0207 164 8200 or email at  IFEDIntel@cityoflondon.pnn.police.uk . Alternatively, report it to  Action Fraud  by calling 0300 123 2040. You can also report to the IFB’s Cheatline by completing their online form or by calling anonymously and in confidence on 0800 422 0421.  ENDS Notes to editors: 1 While some reports can be for a ghost broker with just one victim, typically they are associated to a ghost broker who has defrauded multiple people, with some of them having sold fake insurance to hundreds of innocent drivers.  2 435 reports, including both organisations and individuals, reported a financial loss totalling £631,046.83 3 402 victims (not including organisations) have recorded a loss of £309,163.68, averaging £769.06 per victim. The Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department (IFED) is a specialist police unit dedicated to tackling insurance fraud across England and Wales. Funded by members of the Association of British Insurers and Lloyd’s of London, and hosted by the City of London Police, the team acts with operational independence while working closely with the insurance industry.   Since the launch of IFED in January 2012, the unit’s investigations have seen a number of insurance fraudsters brought to justice, including a doctor who submitted false medical claims and a group of solicitors involved in orchestrating an insurance fraud scam .   Find out more information about IFED .   Follow IFED on twitter @CityPoliceIFED .   The City of London Police is responsible for policing the City’s business district, the ‘Square Mile’ in the historical centre of London.  In addition, it holds national responsibility for Economic Crime and under this remit is host to Action Fraud (the national fraud and cybercrime reporting service), the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, the Insurance Fraud Enforcement Department and the Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit. The City of London continues to be one of the safest urban areas in the country. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/february/06/cost-of-car-insurance-fraud-to-victims-revealed-in-new-police-campaign https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/february/06/cost-of-car-insurance-fraud-to-victims-revealed-in-new-police-campaign Tue, 06 February 2018 14:39:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/31/markerstudy-is-proud-to-announce-its-support-for-sport-relief-2018 Markerstudy is proud to announce its support for Sport Relief 2018 which sees the British public coming together to get active, raise money and change lives. On Friday 23 rd March,  Sport Relief  will be taking over the box with a night of top-notch TV and over 60 staff will be volunteering to receive donation calls at the Markerstudy Group Contact Centre in Chesterfield.    For the eighth year in a row, the call centre team will also be joining the fun and games themselves by dressing up, baking cakes and holding a raffle, all in the name of charity. This year, Sport Relief is bigger than ever with a whole week of activities lined up from 17 th - 23 rd March. The money raised will be spent by Comic Relief to support some of the poorest and most disadvantaged people in the UK and around the world. For more information and to get involved, visit: www.sportrelief.com https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/31/markerstudy-is-proud-to-announce-its-support-for-sport-relief-2018 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/31/markerstudy-is-proud-to-announce-its-support-for-sport-relief-2018 Wed, 31 January 2018 11:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/all-the-questions-regarding-qatar-re Last year rumours were rife about Markerstudy, so it was with pleasure that we began 2018 in a position to share the news of our agreement with Qatar-Re which, subject to regulatory approval, will ensure our continued success whilst bringing lots of new opportunities to the table.  Those of you who know us will already be aware that regulation is not exactly something that stirs our interest. Acquisitions and deals are where Kevin and I get our kicks and our love for taking on new ventures has been put on hold for the last couple of years due to the colossal requirements of the likes of Solvency II. We have agreed a deal that allows Qatar-Re, who already take 85% of our risk, to take 100%, purchasing the insurance companies in the Group, domiciled in Gibraltar, and making us one of the largest MGAs in the UK with A-rated capacity. The business is in a very strong place and this furthers our position, still. Why did we decide to sell? The opportunity was there and we have decided that this deal was the best measure to give us long term commitment and capital support, which we also believe is great news for you. For now it’s still business as usual but here's to a fantastic start to 2018! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/all-the-questions-regarding-qatar-re https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/all-the-questions-regarding-qatar-re Tue, 30 January 2018 12:50:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/gdpr-your-questions-answered A number of you have been asking us about how we are going to approach the rules for GDPR. To make things easier for you we’ve put together a PDF guide that you can download HERE . For anything further please contact brokermanagement@markerstudy.com https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/gdpr-your-questions-answered https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/gdpr-your-questions-answered Tue, 30 January 2018 12:39:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/back-in-a-trice! We’re delighted to announce that former Markerstudy business development aficionado, Samantha Edge is returning to roost! After a brief ‘flirtation’ elsewhere it didn’t take long for Sam to want to rekindle things with her first true love, Markerstudy. She is returning as Director of Business Development for our ‘disruptor’ app, TRiCE which offers annual motor, temporary motor, gadget and pet insurance in a matter of seconds.  Sam commented: “It’s amazing to be back and working on something as exciting as the TRiCE app. I’m keen to drive the development of TRiCE forward, adding new products and widening its scope for the consumer.”       Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director added: “Sam has over 20 years’ experience in sales and business development and we’re extremely happy to welcome her back. We already know that TRiCE has huge potential and with Sam behind it, the possibilities are truly endless.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/back-in-a-trice! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/back-in-a-trice! Tue, 30 January 2018 11:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/now-you-see-it…! Auto Windscreens has also started 2018 with a clear vision – to bolster transparency with partners! The automotive glass repair and replacement provider announced they will be adopting CitNOW technology to enhance and aid transparency with their insurance partners. Managing Director of Auto Windscreens, Rupert Armitage, explains: “We pride ourselves on being an innovative organisation and providing the best service to our partners. With CitNOW, every technician is able to video the customer’s vehicle in advance of repairing the glass. This footage will then be made available to partners, ensuring security and transparency on every vehicle inspection. CitNOW are well respected within the industry and we’re delighted to have aligned ourselves with them, to help us provide a more seamless journey for our clients. ” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/now-you-see-it…! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/30/now-you-see-it…! Tue, 30 January 2018 11:38:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/02/qatar-reinsurance-company-limited-to-acquire-markerstudy-group-insurance-companies-subject-to-regulatory-approval Markerstudy has today exchanged contracts to sell its Gibraltar-based insurance companies, namely Markerstudy Insurance Company Limited, Zenith Insurance PLC, St Julians Insurance Company Limited and Ultimate Insurance Company Limited to Qatar Reinsurance Company Limited (Qatar Re). Markerstudy underwrites more than 5% of the UK motor market, and this deal will secure long term capacity, creating one of the largest retail insurance MGAs and underwriting its position in the UK market, whilst adding more than £750m to Qatar Re.  Kevin Spencer, CEO of Markerstudy Group commented: “For a long time we have had a tremendous relationship with Qatar Re. Their proactive approach has assisted our development and this is a natural evolution; to combine our strengths to establish a primary player in the UK insurance sector. I would also like to thank the team at Capsicum Re who have played a pivotal role in the transaction. “This strategic alliance has three-fold benefits; it enables us to simplify our product offering and processes for our intermediaries and broker partners; it provides us with A rated capital backing, and ensures we maintain the continuity of marketing, distribution, service and support. Ultimately, this arrangement will facilitate our strategy for growth and profitability, positioning us for further success.” Gunther Saacke, Qatar Re’s CEO, commented: “This transaction builds on the strong foundation of our existing relationship. It provides Qatar Re with a greater share of lower volatility business that has performed consistently well for us, balancing our specialty and catastrophe book. In addition, the transaction will enable us to write UK business under any post-Brexit scenario.” Gunther Saacke continued: “Through this acquisition, Qatar Re reaffirms its commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurship in insurance marketing, distribution and servicing.” Raja Balasuriya, Partner at Capsicum Re, said: "We have enjoyed a strong relationship with Markerstudy for many years, having arranged the original quota share and co-insurance following their acquisition of Chaucer’s UK motor business in 2015. The burgeoning partnership between Qatar Re and Markerstudy Group will create a formidable force in UK personal lines, and we are delighted with the part we have played and look forward to continuing to work with both companies.”  The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and is anticipated to complete in the first half of 2018. About Markerstudy Group Markerstudy Group of Companies (MSG) is a dynamic privately-owned organisation, headquartered in Bessels Green, near Sevenoaks, employing over 3,000 employees in the UK and Gibraltar. It has been listed in the Best Companies to Work For in the UK at The Sunday Times Best Companies Awards for the past five years in a row and was a Top 5 company in 2017 in the Best Big Companies category. Established in 2001, its insurance arm includes Gibraltar insurers, Markerstudy Insurance Company Limited, Zenith Insurance Plc and Ultimate Insurance Company Ltd plus UK appointed service providers, Markerstudy Limited and Zenith Insurance Management UK Limited, who provide distribution, claims and administrative support. In 2015, MSG acquired Zenith Marque (previously branded Chaucer Insurance Services Limited) and consumer-facing company Geoffrey Insurance Services (formerly Chaucer Direct). The following brands operate within the Markerstudy Retail division: Mobilers, Equesure, Insurance Choice, Distinct Private Clients, Distinct Business Insurance, Policy Shop, Insurance Shop, Lancaster Insurance Services, Sureterm Direct, Masterquote, Aquote, Drivology, Insurance Factory and Supercover Insurance Ltd, offering value and choice to a wide range of customers. The Affinity Division, Ultimate Insurance Solutions (UIS) includes Ultimate Pet Partners Limited, the UK administrative arm of the business and pet brands Purely Pets, Paws & Claws and BDML Connect Limited, one of the UK’s largest affinity based insurance intermediaries for pet insurance. The Group also includes Auto Windscreens, VisionTrack and Vision Replacement Solutions Limited.   About Qatar Re Qatar Re, licensed as a Class 4 Insurer by the Bermuda Monetary Authority, is a global multi-line reinsurer writing all major property, casualty and specialty lines of business. Qatar Re serves its clients through teams of seasoned underwriting and finance professionals combining in-depth technical and business expertise with industry experience across all markets. Through its headquarters in Bermuda, branch offices in Zurich, the Dubai International Financial Centre and Singapore and representative office in London, Qatar Re is close to the world’s major reinsurance markets and the core operations of its clients. Qatar Re is backed by a parental guarantee from Qatar Insurance Company S.A.Q. (QIC) and benefits from QIC’s substantial and growing capital base. Qatar Re is rated “A/Stable” by S&P Global and “A (Excellent)” by A. M. Best. For further information about Qatar Re, please visit our website at www.qatarreinsurance.com . About Capsicum Re Founded by Grahame Chilton and Rupert Swallow in 2013, Capsicum Reinsurance Brokers LLP Group (“Capsicum Re”) is a reinsurance broker working in partnership with Arthur J. Gallagher as its primary treaty reinsurance broking outlet. Based out of offices in London, Bermuda, Rio de Janeiro, Miami and Santiago, Capsicum Re is focused on attracting the best advocates in the market to provide bespoke and specialist reinsurance advice and products; it boasts the foremost broking teams in the specialist areas of the market that it focuses on.  For further information, please visit https://www.capsicumre.com/ https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/02/qatar-reinsurance-company-limited-to-acquire-markerstudy-group-insurance-companies-subject-to-regulatory-approval https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2018/january/02/qatar-reinsurance-company-limited-to-acquire-markerstudy-group-insurance-companies-subject-to-regulatory-approval Tue, 02 January 2018 09:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/december/11/insurance-times-awards-highlights In case you missed it, December started with a bang at the Insurance Times Awards on the 7 th December. As a Group we were Finalists in four award categories, came home with a Highly Commended accolade for Lancaster Insurance and sponsored two awards, Excellence in Motor Broking and Excellence in Technology – Broker.  The undoubted highlight for many was Anthony Foster’s unique delivery of the winner in the Excellence in Technology Broker Award Category at the beginning of the evening. Presenting alongside comedian, Kevin Bridges, Anthony was ‘stitched up’ by the Scot who invited him to step up and announce the winner - Questor Insurance – before Kevin had announced the list of finalists, or acknowledged Towergate Insurance’s Highly Commended.  Kevin neatly side-stepped his gaff and left Anthony shouldering the blame. Laughing it off, Anthony acknowledged that Kevin’s mistake cost him a CD sale this Christmas but that the episode livened up an otherwise lengthy run of 32 awards! We’re looking forward to next year already!      Here are some the highlights from 2017... https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/december/11/insurance-times-awards-highlights https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/december/11/insurance-times-awards-highlights Mon, 11 December 2017 13:49:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/december/11/garys-preamble With Christmas soon to be upon us, I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our broker and insurer partners who have supported our many endeavours, initiatives and events over the course of the last year. Much like the The Wind in the Willows, seeds of change have been sown in insurance, bringing highs and lows to the industry and considerable strain in many cases, but alongside this, fantastic opportunities to those forging ahead with technology. This year we tackled Ogden, IPT, SFCR, introduced two new products, Zenith IHR and Solar Distinction (HNW) and we launched a state of the art APP, TRiCE with insurtech enabler RDT. As a group we’ve also made waves with our Internet of Things (IoT) platform via VisionTrack and spent months educating the industry on Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) via Auto Windscreens. It’s an exciting time of revolution for insurance in every sense; the way it’s purchased, rated, assessed and everything in between is transforming and I can’t wait to see how this develops. I’m also delighted to say that as 2017 comes to an end, we’re in the strongest position we’ve ever been in. Regulation, although disruptive, forces us all to adapt and get our ducks in a row. As an agile business this puts us in great stead for whatever comes next. Though Kevin, Keith, Martyn and I are not quite as extreme in characteristics as Toad, Badger, Mole and Rat (I hope), we are a great team and bear similarities in demonstrating what can be achieved collectively with determination and a brilliantly masterminded plan! Add your support to this and the world is our oyster. This year, we’ve decided to ring the changes with a festive animated Christmas card featuring Kevin as Toad, me as Rat, Keith as Badger, and Martyn as Mole – as well as the rest of the senior management team and broker managers as you’ve never seen them before.  Can you spot who’s who? Here’s to a great Christmas, a happy New Year and wonderful 2018!     Quote: “Sudden and magnificent, the sun's broad golden disc showed itself over the horizon facing them; and the first rays, shooting across the level water-meadows, took the animals full in the eyes and dazzled them. When they were able to look once more, the Vision had vanished, and the air was full of the carol of birds that hailed the dawn.” The Wind in the Willows https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/december/11/garys-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/december/11/garys-preamble Mon, 11 December 2017 13:47:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/november/10/insurance-in-a-trice The revolutionary app ‘ TRiCE ’ has it covered; with a customer-centric quote journey, data enrichment, active underwriting and a powerful rating engine – not to mention an integrated policy administration and claims system. Gadget cover in 55 seconds • Pet insurance in 65 seconds Temporary motor cover in 70 seconds With home, motor and travel coming soon To find out how your business can benefit from the revolutionary new TRiCE app, Email  business@Triceinsurance.com  or call  01227  284747 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/november/10/insurance-in-a-trice https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/november/10/insurance-in-a-trice Fri, 10 November 2017 12:20:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/26/broker-expo-meet-the-experts Our Business Zone and Insurance Age Homepage take-over should have left you in no doubt that we meant business at Broker Expo. A highlight for us was welcoming Stuart Pearce to the Markerstudy stand drawing a crowd of more than 150 people; sharing his wisdom on the need for grit, determination and the personal touch – sentiments we can all relate to in this day and age. However, if you didn’t have a chance to speak with us on the stand you can get in touch in the usual way with your Markerstudy broker manager https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/26/broker-expo-meet-the-experts https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/26/broker-expo-meet-the-experts Thu, 26 October 2017 15:05:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/25/retail-and-affinity-join-forces-at-markerstudy Markerstudy has announced that its Affinity Division will join forces with Markerstudy Retail from the 1 st  November. Following the promotion earlier in the year of current Managing Director of Retail, Ross Barrington, the Affinity Division will now also come under his remit, with Richard Morley supporting as Broking Director. Markerstudy has reportedly undertaken the decision to move the Affinity Division (Ultimate Insurance Solutions) based in The Connect Centre, Portsmouth into Markerstudy Retail with the objective of developing a new operational structure which adds an additional layer of expertise and compliments business development opportunities within Retail and its Affinity partnerships. The Affinity Division includes award winning pet insurance brands, Purely Pets and Paws & Claws. Ultimate Insurance Solutions was acquired by Markerstudy in 2014 and has been led by Managing Director, Paul Hampshire who will now undertake the role of Executive Chairman for this combined division. Group CEO, Kevin Spencer commented: “I am delighted to advise that both Paul Hampshire and Ross Barrington will be widening their remits in the Group, working together to provide a knowledge base second to none and building on a particularly successful year for both operations.” Ross Barrington, Divisional Managing Director for Markerstudy Retail and Affinity added: “Markerstudy Retail is currently the 22 nd  largest retail broker in the UK, and I’m excited to be given the opportunity to develop the combined force of Retail and Affinity even further. It’s a fantastic chance to realise their full potential and, aided by Richard Morley, we will continue to drive the Retail Division from strength to strength.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/25/retail-and-affinity-join-forces-at-markerstudy https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/25/retail-and-affinity-join-forces-at-markerstudy Wed, 25 October 2017 11:37:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/16/insurance-in-a-trice-time-saving-app-launched-at-the-me,-london Time-saving devices have become a hot commodity in the daily grind of modern life and never has the phrase first coined by Benjamin Franklin, ‘time is money’, been more pertinent. The makers of new insurance app TRiCE certainly think so, launching the first insurance combined product app on Monday 16 th October at the Radio Rooftop Bar at London’s ME. Hosted by gadget aficionado, Ortis Deley, media, celebrity, Lillie Lexie Gregg and the greats of the insurance industry, gathered to hear about the app, which quotes for temporary car, pet and gadget cover in a matter of seconds, with personal lines motor, travel and home to follow by 2018. TRiCE is the brain child of Insurance Group Markerstudy and insure-tech platform provider RDT, and is powered by the insurance industry’s most advanced rating technology, allowing users to obtain a quote in a trice! Markerstudy Group Underwriting Director Gary Humphreys said: “We’ve been working to create a unique proposition in the market for some time, bridging the gap between insurance, technology and big data to make things easier for the end user. We’re living in a fast-paced world where for many, time is literally money.  We’re excited to be launching a life hack that will hopefully make buying insurance a seamless and efficient experience. We all need to make sure we’re covered and hopefully with TRiCE we’re removing the usual hassle and taking the way people buy insurance into a new realm.” RDT CEO Mark Bates said: “My organisation can be categorised as a disruptor – but put simply, we thrive on being a leader in technology, finding new and better ways for insurers to market their products and get closer to their customers. Our joint venture with the innovative Markerstudy Group has lead to the development of Trice – which will redefine the options available to insurers and brokers for selling insurance products.” Products coming to TRiCE by early 2018: Personal Lines Motor, Travel, Home. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/16/insurance-in-a-trice-time-saving-app-launched-at-the-me,-london https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/16/insurance-in-a-trice-time-saving-app-launched-at-the-me,-london Mon, 16 October 2017 16:25:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/02/markerstudy-announces-martyn-holman-to-take-up-consultancy-role Markerstudy has advised that with effect from 1 st November 2017, Martyn Holman will be stepping down from his role as Group Commercial Director.  Martyn was appointed to this position in January 2014, where he has identified and developed numerous opportunities during the course of almost four years providing a wealth of knowledge to the retail and commercial divisions. Now in favour of a consultancy role, it is by mutual consent that Martyn will be able to take non-conflicting NED/consultancy roles outside of Markerstudy Group, allowing him to share his extensive experience with others and help businesses in the same way he has helped Markerstudy. Martyn will remain very much a part of the Markerstudy team, emphasised Kevin Spencer, Group CEO. “This new arrangement will enable him the time to pursue his personal interests, for which he is famed, whilst continuing to assist us and other businesses. "I'm immensely grateful to Martyn for his input and advice to date, and look forward to continuing to work with him for many years to come. He will be an enormous asset to any additional businesses or ventures he chooses”. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/02/markerstudy-announces-martyn-holman-to-take-up-consultancy-role https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/october/02/markerstudy-announces-martyn-holman-to-take-up-consultancy-role Mon, 02 October 2017 15:23:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/we-love-awards No really, we do! It’s not only because we enjoy a knees up, it’s also because we love supporting other businesses in the insurance arena and highlighting our great achievements, industry-wide! This month we have the UK Broker Awards (tomorrow!) and we’re delighted to announce that we are sponsoring the ‘Personal Lines Broker of the Year’ category. Held at The Brewery and in its 24th year, the finest from the insurance industry will gather with Insurance Age to find out who really cuts the mustard. The ‘Personal Lines Broker of the Year’ category seeks to spotlight those brokers who have managed to excel despite the on-going tough economic environment in personal lines. And with one of our own, Lancaster Insurance up for the award for Best Marketing Campaign it’s sure to be an exciting day! It doesn’t stop there! We’re also excited to be sponsoring the ‘Excellence in Motor Broking’ category at the Insurance Times Awards. Held at the InterContinental Hotel, beside the 02, on Thursday 7th December it promises to be a special night and live up to the awards motto - ‘Expect the unexpected’. With over 1,000 people due to attend, and our own brands up for four categories, no less – we’re eager to see who’s ‘top dog’. Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Management, comments: “For us, supporting the awards of both Insurance Age and Insurance Times is important. We all try to do a superior job and acknowledging that we excel in different areas, highlighting great work is a fantastic way to celebrate deserved successes amongst peers. We can’t wait to see who takes home the coveted trophies!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/we-love-awards https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/we-love-awards Tue, 12 September 2017 16:16:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/visiontrack-to-launch-game-changer-in-ubi Not content with winning countless awards for its ground-breaking IoT platform, VisionTrack is launching a new affordable telematics and video based camera from November 2017, the VT2.3G. Connecting to the complete package available to VisionTrack clients, benefits include the award winning IoT platform, portal and app. The VT2.3G is a 3G video-based telematics camera with a difference, providing cutting edge technology and the following features: Forward-facing full HD 1080P video recording Collision warning and notification of tailgating Insurance-grade GPS at 1Hz (1x per second) Insurance-grade G-senor at 100Hz (100 x per second) Driver scoring and rating Event-driven 3G video Real-time driver feedback Instant FNOL alerts with video Tamper-proof with heartbeat White-label with your brand Simon Marsh commented: “This is an exciting time for VisionTrack and I’m delighted to be bringing a really cost-effective solution to the insurance industry. I’m passionate about road safety and I truly believe that what we are doing will, in the long term, help prevent road incidents in the first place. The potential savings and benefits are huge and I’m delighted to be the first business bringing these cameras to the UK market.”    For further information contact Simon Marsh: SMarsh@visiontrack.com https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/visiontrack-to-launch-game-changer-in-ubi https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/visiontrack-to-launch-game-changer-in-ubi Tue, 12 September 2017 16:15:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/the-a-z-of-adas-auto-windscreens-webinar-with-insurance-post Following the incredible success of our last webinar on ADAS, Auto Windscreens has teamed up with Insurance POST to bust some more ADAS myths in a video webinar on the 17 th October. Joined by none other than Post editor, Jonathan Swift, Managing Director of Auto Windscreens, Rupert Armitage will be discussing ADAS issues with fellow panellists, Tom Hudd, Operations Manager at Thatcham, David Elphick, Parts and Accessories Sales Manager at Mazda Europe, Karl Gray, Global Head of Casualty & Motor at Zurich Insurance and Dan Freedman, Director of Motor Development at the Direct Line Group.     Rupert Armitage commented: “We have some real industry heavyweights on the panel so I’m very excited to debate the current issues regarding ADAS with Swifty. For me personally, it has always been about safety and education. If we can work together to highlight the dangers and opportunities, it will be a very interesting and fruitful discussion for all.”  Register your interest here . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/the-a-z-of-adas-auto-windscreens-webinar-with-insurance-post https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/the-a-z-of-adas-auto-windscreens-webinar-with-insurance-post Tue, 12 September 2017 16:15:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/going-for-broke-at-broker-expo Never one to rest on our laurels we have decided to GO LARGE at this year’s  Broker Expo  on 9th November, not only exhibiting our gadget and mobile phone product prowess on stands 44 & 53 via Supercover but also sponsoring the entire ‘Business Zone’! It’s in the absolute prime position of the Ricoh Arena, Coventry, located centrally and in extremely close proximity to the food and beverage stand – which I’m sure you’ll agree is a key consideration! In the Markerstudy Group Business Zone will be key representatives from Markerstudy, Auto Windscreens and VisionTrack, providing a plethora of information on all of our offerings across the group. We’ll also be hosting scheduled ‘Ask the Experts’ presentations and Q&As in the designated Markerstudy area. This will provide the opportunity to find out more about our fundamental products and insight into wider industry-related issues. Line up: • Stuart Dickinson and Tom Morrissey: The shape of Commercial SME and market opportunities • Andy Cracknell, Gary Thompson and Ed Smith: Specialisation under the spotlight – A closer look at Niche Motor and Schemes • Dave Drury and Matt Seago: Data and Innovation in the personal lines market We’ll be updating you on the full schedule nearer the time but we would love to hear what else you would like to receive from us. If you would like to see the complete schedule when it’s available or have a question related to any of our underwriting products, please send them into  events@markerstudy.com . Our attendees: Andy Cracknell, Divisional Head Gary Thompson, Divisional Head Eddie Smith, AD Handler Matt Seago, Divisional Head David Drury, Divisional Head Stuart Dickinson, Head of Commercial Rupert Armitage, Managing Director of Auto Windscreens Simon Marsh, Managing Director of VisionTrack Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Management Paul Copeland, Broker Manager Neil Hayden, Broker Manager Jim Wylie, Broker Manager https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/going-for-broke-at-broker-expo https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/going-for-broke-at-broker-expo Tue, 12 September 2017 16:14:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/why-there-is-no-transparency-without-context Since our last Loop-e, some of you will no doubt have come across numerous articles discussing our financial situation, following the publication of our SFCR (Solvency and Financial Condition Report). It was time to add context, lay the rumours to rest and put to bed the room for misinterpretation and salacious reporting. As I’ve said many times, through hours of recent interviews with the media, we’re in the strongest place that we’ve ever been, in terms of projected profits, operational structure and opportunities on the horizon, but that’s not to say that from now on in it will be plain sailing! After a long summer break we’ve returned to a potential U-turn on Ogden, so, dare I say, a glimmer of hope in what has been an inordinately challenging year to date? That said, the colossal beast that is customer transparency is a malevolent force, GDPR cannot be avoided, and the challenge of hanging on to customers at renewal pervades our thoughts. Most of us aren’t trying to pull the wool over the eyes of loyal customers but equally, we all know how extremely difficult it is to explain to anyone who doesn’t work in the industry the enormous impact of Ogden and the subsequent hike in premiums which have been exacerbated by rises in IPT. To the average person this simply looks like an incredible rip off, once more reinforcing the general public’s view of insurers in a bad light. The real issue is lack of context. It is up to us to work together to battle against this absence of understanding in the public domain. I believe that it is possible but there’s a steep mountain to climb educating the consumer. Better get the crag hoppers out, folks – I don’t know about you but my hips aren’t what they used to be! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/why-there-is-no-transparency-without-context https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/12/why-there-is-no-transparency-without-context Tue, 12 September 2017 16:12:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/05/markerstudy-sponsor-‘personal-lines-broker-of-the-year’-at-the-uk-broker-awards With over 500 people due to attend, the awards celebrate the industry’s greatest achievers of 2017, with businesses receiving the highest accreditations for innovation, growth, customer service and professionalism.  The ‘Personal Lines Broker of the Year’ category seeks to spotlight those brokers who have managed to excel despite the on-going tough economic environment in the personal lines arena. Showing superior levels of customer service and staff engagement, growth and profitability as well as increase of market share, we can’t wait to see who rises above the rest to scoop the award! And with one of our own, Lancaster Insurance up for the award for Best Marketing Campaign it’s sure to be an exciting day!  Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Management, comments: “For us, supporting the ‘Personal Lines Broker of the Year’ award is the perfect fit and we’re thrilled to be sponsoring a category that highlights great work in an arena that marries with one of our key focuses. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate deserved successes amongst peers and we can’t wait to see who takes home the coveted trophy!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/05/markerstudy-sponsor-‘personal-lines-broker-of-the-year’-at-the-uk-broker-awards https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/september/05/markerstudy-sponsor-‘personal-lines-broker-of-the-year’-at-the-uk-broker-awards Tue, 05 September 2017 15:55:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/august/10/markerstudy-sponsor-excellence-in-motor-broking-at-insurance-times-awards With this year’s Insurance Times awards shortlist announcement fast approaching, we’re delighted to announce that we are sponsoring the ‘Excellence in Motor Broking’ category. Held at the InterContinental Hotel, beside the 02, on Thursday 7th December it promises to be a special night and live up to the awards motto - ‘Expect the unexpected’. With over 1,000 people due to attend, the awards celebrate the industry’s achievements from showcasing truly inspiring stories of individual heroism and team working; new digital innovations and companies receiving the highest accreditations for customer service and professionalism. The ‘Excellence in Motor Broking’ awards seeks to spotlight those brokers who demonstrate expertise and a total focus on client needs in this competitive specialism, in either private/personal or commercial motor. Judges will be looking for evidence of a differentiated, ‘non-standard’ approach, whether from product design, development and delivery, partnerships, marketing communications, claims – or a combination of these efforts. Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Management, comments: “ For us, the ‘Excellence in Motor Broking’ award fits seamlessly with the area of the market we work within and we’re thrilled to be sponsoring this category and highlighting the great work our industry does. The night is always one to remember and it’s a fantastic way to celebrate individual and company successes amongst peers - we look forward to seeing who makes the shortlist on 4th September!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/august/10/markerstudy-sponsor-excellence-in-motor-broking-at-insurance-times-awards https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/august/10/markerstudy-sponsor-excellence-in-motor-broking-at-insurance-times-awards Thu, 10 August 2017 11:31:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/july/31/markerstudy-launches-new-‘solar-distinction’-motor-product Markerstudy has announced that it will be launching a new scheme, aimed at mid to high net worth clients, on individual executive and prestige motor vehicles. The offering will cover multi-vehicle family fleets and include classic cars, motorhomes and horseboxes. Solar Distinction is a tailored product that will be exclusively underwritten through the Referral Team at Markerstudy and will include an enhanced policy wording, experienced and dedicated VIP claims service and UK & EU breakdown recovery. Matt Seago, Head of Private Car for Markerstudy commented: “The new Solar Distinction product has been created to offer the flexibility to tailor each risk on its own merits to complement the insured’s risk and premium requirements. We specifically designed it to give brokers and their clients a competitive alternative to other schemes on the market. Our experienced dedicated team can tailor all policies to meet the client’s unique requirements so we’re excited to be bringing something different to our existing offering.” Solar Distinction will be available from 1 August 2017. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/july/31/markerstudy-launches-new-‘solar-distinction’-motor-product https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/july/31/markerstudy-launches-new-‘solar-distinction’-motor-product Mon, 31 July 2017 14:53:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/09/martyn-holman-to-head-up-new-markerstudy-commercial-offering,-guild-business-insurance Markerstudy has announced that it is launching a new commercial venture, Guild Business Insurance. Headed up by Martyn Holman, Group Commercial Director, who has significant plans to grow the commercial division, Guild Business Insurance is designed to provide its broker partners with substantial added value in the commercial lines market with a focus on growing rated commercial products specifically aimed at businesses, via a dedicated team based in Whitstable.   Guild Business Insurance will launch in 2018, led by Martyn and supported by Stuart Dickinson, Head of Commercial, and Jim Wylie, Broker Manager. It will include three distinct distribution categories, catering for large to small books of business, specialising in the acceptance of risks that are unusual or non-standard, and that are often difficult or time consuming to place.   Martyn Holman, Group Commercial Director commented: “It is my belief that we have some of the most experienced people in the industry able to provide support in this area and that we can bring something unique to brokers looking for products that require specific understanding that might be lost elsewhere. We are bold in our plans for Guild and extremely confident that what we are able to offer is unavailable elsewhere in the market.”     Markerstudy acquired Chaucer Insurance in 2015 and rebranded to Zenith Marque as part of the agreement terms with Hanover. The current commercial motor products available through Zenith Marque will remain under the existing brand. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/09/martyn-holman-to-head-up-new-markerstudy-commercial-offering,-guild-business-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/09/martyn-holman-to-head-up-new-markerstudy-commercial-offering,-guild-business-insurance Tue, 09 May 2017 09:37:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/08/visiontrack-introduces-‘game-changing’-new-video-cloud-telematics-product Leading in-vehicle camera and telematics provider, VisionTrack, has launched an economical and scalable video-based telematics product designed for Usage-Based Insurance (UBI). Unveiled at BIBA for the personal and commercial lines market, the new product will offer an unrivalled First Notification of Loss (FNOL) solution, allowing video footage to be viewed almost instantly via an online portal. Benefits of the new system include the capacity to notify insurers and brokers of incidents within seconds as well as monitoring driver behaviour, such as heavy braking and accelerating. The platform is designed to be truly device agnostic and can elastically scale, a key aspect due to the increased size of data being sent, which can be a challenge for standard telematics providers. VisionTrack MD Simon Marsh said: “Our cloud-based video telematics platform is a complete game-changer. With the latest cost increases with Ogden and IPT its potential is vast and invaluable for insurers and brokers who are able to utilise our state of the art technology. We are very excited to be able to offer this new product with existing solutions on the market which include apps, black boxes and other self-install devices that can connect to the VisionTrack cloud platform.” VisionTrack’s IoT (internet of things) platform has already gained recognition in the tech industry, winning awards from both Gartner and Celent Model Insurer 2017 for its use of innovation and fraud prevention and is currently shortlisted for the Technology Award at the British Insurance Awards 2017. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/08/visiontrack-introduces-‘game-changing’-new-video-cloud-telematics-product https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/08/visiontrack-introduces-‘game-changing’-new-video-cloud-telematics-product Mon, 08 May 2017 10:36:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/win-tickets-to-british-gt! We’re giving away tickets to watch British GT racing! Geoffrey Insurance, a lead sponsor of ‘Bentley Boy’ Rick Parfitt Junior, has a number of tickets over the summer season up for grabs. The British GT Championship has formed an intrinsic part of the UK’s national motorsport fabric for the past 25 years. You can catch the excitement at Brands Hatch! To be in with a chance of winning, simply email brokermanagement@markerstudy.com  with 'British GT WIN' in the subject header, and your details, and you could soon be enjoying the exhilarating atmosphere yourself! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/win-tickets-to-british-gt! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/win-tickets-to-british-gt! Fri, 05 May 2017 14:53:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/martyn-holman-a-guild-age Already established in the insurance broking community, we are known for our ability to help advance large books of motor business. However, we are also ambitious in our plans to grow our commercial division.  As my area of expertise (… alongside golf and enjoying fine wine, horses etc…), I have utilised my experience in this field and will be bringing something new to the table…  We acquired Chaucer Insurance in 2015 and rebranded Zenith Marque as part of our agreement terms with Hanover. Since then we have carefully assessed our offering - including Zenith Marque and our commercial lines products, and expertise in general.  I am delighted to share with you a preview of our new proposition – Guild Business Insurance – designed to provide our broker partners with substantial added value in the commercial lines market. Guild Business Insurance will launch in September 2017, with myself at the helm, and supported by Stuart Dickinson, Head of Commercial, and Jim Wylie, Broker Manager, names I’m sure you are familiar with. Our focus is on growing rated commercial products specifically aimed at businesses, via a dedicated team based in Whitstable. The current commercial motor products available through Zenith Marque will remain under the same banner and will not change. Distribution Strategy Guild will distribute in three distinct ways, catering for large and small books of business, specialising in the acceptance of risks that are unusual or non-standard, or that might be difficult or time consuming to place. It is my belief that we have some of the most experienced people in the industry able to provide support in this area and that we can bring something unique to brokers looking for products that require specific understanding that might be lost elsewhere. We are bold in our plans for Guild and extremely confident that what we are able to offer is unavailable elsewhere in the market. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/martyn-holman-a-guild-age https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/martyn-holman-a-guild-age Fri, 05 May 2017 14:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/gary’s-piece-we’ve-done-a-disappearing-act! BIBA is just around the corner and, no doubt, many of you will be wondering what stand we have up our sleeves that can better the dizzy heights of a castle, grandeur of the Roman Empire and last year’s inimitable ‘Bob’s Café’. The answer – nothing!   We’ve done a complete 360 this year, preferring instead to host strategic meetings about forthcoming plans in carefully chosen locations in Manchester; outside of the usual Expo.   Why have we stepped away from our signature ‘brow-raising’ stand? The simple answer is we have chosen to take a different path this year.    After the shock of the Ogden rate, we now also have to contend with Theresa May’s snap election. With any luck we will gain the opportunity to debate this and the proposed whiplash reforms further in future parliamentary sessions. We are working vigorously with the ABI and Government to ensure that this happens in order to gain significant strides, realising a change that will support and sustain the industry, going forward.   In the mean-time we will zealously pursue other opportunities, including growing our commercial division, as Group Commercial Director, Martyn Holman, outlines below. To quote Ms. May, let’s all remain ‘strong and stable’ anchors in these uncertain waters. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/gary’s-piece-we’ve-done-a-disappearing-act! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/may/05/gary’s-piece-we’ve-done-a-disappearing-act! Fri, 05 May 2017 14:43:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/april/27/new-dashcam-telematics-policy-launched-by-masterquote-vision-could-save-city-dwellers-up-to-25-off-their-car-insurance A new insurance product is set to come on the market that may offer a more competitive rate to safe drivers in built up cities. The policy includes having a camera fitted to the car and combines dash cam footage with telematics to offer more viable rates and protect policy holders against fraudulent claims. Available through Masterquote Vision , it is aimed at drivers living in cities who are looking for cover that also provides peace of mind against crash for cash claims. Insurance premiums have risen dramatically in the last month, on average by £110 according to a recent report by confused.com* due to the new Ogden rate coming into force, which has particularly hit young drivers who already face high premiums. Insurance cover can typically be higher in cities such as London, Birmingham and Manchester, with research showing that Birmingham takes all of the top ten postcodes for the priciest premiums.** Cash for crash ‘scammers’ are a notorious problem for police. Leicester was only recently reported as a city with a suspected cash for crash organised gang who had been strategically staging crashes for the past two years, according to one eye witness.***    The policy, which is underwritten by Zenith Insurance , provides a combined camera and telematics device supplied by VisionTrack that is fitted by an engineer who visits the customer within 7 days of buying cover. The camera sits behind the rear view mirror of the vehicle. Ross Barrington, Managing Director of Masterquote Vision comments: “In today’s market the use of telematics and camera footage is becoming more and more vital, not only in encouraging safer driving but also in confirming liability following an incident. We believe that this new product will be extremely helpful to safe drivers in higher risk built up areas such as London or Manchester who might otherwise struggle to find affordable cover.”    VisionTrack has already saved insurers significant money this year alone in cases where its footage has successfully proved liability after an incident. The in-vehicle CCTV company cites the combination of visual footage and telematics as the key to its success.     Simon Marsh, Managing Director of VisionTrack commented: “I firmly believe that the combination of telematics and visual footage encourages better driving behaviour. We’ve seen the direct impact our device has on driver safety, for instance if they are driving over the speed limit or harsh braking, it will deliver an audible alert. This product is also perfect for younger, less experienced drivers who are likely to be at greater risk of incidents, living in built up areas.” The combined product is likely to be a welcome addition to the market, particularly when considering the recent challenges being faced by drivers and the industry and according to the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA), telematics policies can deliver savings of up to 25 per cent to careful drivers. BIBA also noted that telematics, known as black boxes, are proving increasingly attractive for young motorists, who can see their premiums fall by as much as 30 per cent with one year’s no-claim bonus on their record.****     * https://www.confused.com/on-the-road/cost-of-motoring/what-the-price-index-means-for-you   ** https://bdaily.co.uk/technology/30-04-2015/car-insurance-and-in-car-security-camera-relationship/   *** http://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/crash-for-cash-scammers-targeting-drivers-in-leicestershire-for-the-past-two-years/story-30109450-detail/story.html     ****   https://www.biba.org.uk/press-releases/biba-research-reveals-750000-live-telematics-based-policies/ https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/april/27/new-dashcam-telematics-policy-launched-by-masterquote-vision-could-save-city-dwellers-up-to-25-off-their-car-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/april/27/new-dashcam-telematics-policy-launched-by-masterquote-vision-could-save-city-dwellers-up-to-25-off-their-car-insurance Thu, 27 April 2017 13:08:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/markerstudy-retail-launches-new-product,-masterquote-vision Markerstudy Retail has announced that it is launching a new product that combines dash cam footage with telematics to offer policy holders a competitive rate and protect drivers against fraudulent claims utilising an award winning  Internet of things  (IoT) platform. The product, Masterquote Vision, is aimed at inexperienced lower mileage drivers living in cities, who are looking for cover that may provide peace of mind against crash for cash claims. The move is supported by recent industry reports released by BIBA that telematics policies can deliver savings of up to 25 per cent to careful drivers.* The policy, underwritten by Zenith Insurance, provides a combined camera and telematics device supplied by VisionTrack. The device is fitted behind the rear view mirror by a qualified engineer, who visits the customer within 7 days of buying cover. The proposition also benefits from the award winning IoT platform from VisionTrack, which recently won two Gartner awards for innovation and the Celent Model Insurer Award for Innovation & Emerging Technologies: Reducing Fraud. Ross Barrington, Managing Director of Retail comments: “In today’s market the use of telematics and camera footage is becoming more and more vital in confirming liability. We believe that this new product will be extremely helpful to drivers in higher risk built up areas, such as London or Manchester, who might otherwise struggle to find affordable cover.”    VisionTrack has already saved Markerstudy significant money this year alone, in cases where its footage has successfully proved liability in the insurer’s favour.  Simon Marsh, Managing Director of VisionTrack added: “I firmly believe that the combination of telematics and visual footage are key to encouraging better driver behaviour. This product is perfect for younger, less experienced drivers who are likely to be at greater risk of incidents, living in built up areas. The benefits that video telematics can offer the insurer and clients are huge against fraudulent and exaggerated claims, whilst also improving road safety. Video helps insurers and brokers engage with the customer, showing them how they drive in the real world. This insight and feedback is invaluable to all but especially the less experienced. I believe that this is the future of vehicle telematics, particularly when considering the recent challenges being faced by the industry.” * https://www.biba.org.uk/press-releases/biba-research-reveals-750000-live-telematics-based-policies/ https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/markerstudy-retail-launches-new-product,-masterquote-vision https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/markerstudy-retail-launches-new-product,-masterquote-vision Thu, 13 April 2017 12:26:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/markerstudy-innovation-emerging-technologies-celent-model-insurer-awards-2017 Markerstudy is celebrating a third year of success as a ‘Celent Model Insurer’, after scooping an award for its VisionTrack technology in the ‘Innovation & Emerging Technologies: Reducing Fraud’ category.  The accolade, which rewards innovation and excellence in insurance technology was announced at Celent’s Innovation and Insight Day in Boston on Tuesday 4 th April 2017. Known predominantly for its Markerstudy and Zenith insurance products, Markerstudy Group of Companies has other household names such as Auto Windscreens, classic car specialist Lancaster Insurance, and gadget insurance expert Supercover in its stable.    Markerstudy launched VisionTrack in February 2016 to help prevent incidents, improve road safety and reduce fraudulent claims. The winning submission was based on Markerstudy’s successful creation and implementation of the platform which combines high definition telematics cameras, a custom-designed, cloud-based IoT hub, big data analytics and machine learning to track a vehicle in real-time, predict driving patterns and warn customers of potential safety issues. Simon Marsh, Managing Director of VisionTrack, said : “We are delighted to have won the Celent Model Insurer Award and to be recognised for our industry-leading IoT platform. The benefits that video telematics can offer the insurer and clients are huge against fraudulent and exaggerated claims, whilst also improving driver behaviour. I believe that this is the future of vehicle telematics.” Dan Fiehn, Director of IT for Markerstudy added: “To be recognised three years in a row by Celent is a dream come true. We have always been forward thinking and agile in our approach and this award reinforces our position as a leader in our use of technology in the insurance industry.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/markerstudy-innovation-emerging-technologies-celent-model-insurer-awards-2017 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/markerstudy-innovation-emerging-technologies-celent-model-insurer-awards-2017 Thu, 06 April 2017 16:52:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/no-rest-for-the-wicked!-–-update-from-the-world-of-broker-management Just when we thought the industry landscape was changing fast along came the Ogden revision! I get regular feedback directly from our broker partners and via my broker facing team about the extent of the fallout for you on the front-line and on your customers. The over-riding view is that the market will take some time to settle given the complexity and degree of knock-on implications, not to mention the further change catalysts of Renewal Transparency and IPT increases… On a positive note, and despite this back-drop of perpetual change, Broker Management remains focused, as always, on enhancing our excellent broker partnerships and adding value to your Markerstudy relationship. Alongside ongoing developments to Markerstudy’s product offering, our award winning enrichment technology and leading counter-fraud approach, we are continuously improving – ensuring the service provision between the office-based support team members and our ‘roadies’ is more integrated. Our aim is to assist you quickly and completely regardless of whether your need is about cover notes or strategic development. We deployed Sales Force as our CRM tool last year and getting the best out of this will be a feature in Q2 and on, as will further development of our recently released Broker Hub extranet through which we intend pushing practical work-flow solutions. A constant in our service equation is our intent to invest in broker relationships that add bottom-line value; so the themes of distribution selectivity and enhancement of propositions for brokers supportive of our Group portfolio offering remain. Last but certainly not least, we are delighted to announce a great new addition to the team, Jessica Hill. Jessica has worked for Markerstudy since 2012 after joining straight from University as an Insurance Administrator in the Operational Underwriting department. She’s since held the roles of Senior Support Administrator, Business Analyst and Quality and Improvement Team Leader. Jessica is now Broker Support Manager, responsible for the Broker Management Support team based in Whitstable. Her experience and skills in systems, project management and analytics will be vital in steering the team to even better service delivery to brokers over the remainder of 2017 and beyond. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/no-rest-for-the-wicked!-–-update-from-the-world-of-broker-management https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/no-rest-for-the-wicked!-–-update-from-the-world-of-broker-management Wed, 29 March 2017 12:19:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/ogden-the-guide Despite the Odgen rate largely being billed as the ‘problem of the insurer’ in the press, it is the broker that will likely see the fall out when the customer is presented with a much higher price than usual for their cover. To minimise the pain of these difficult conversations, below is a guide to the where’s, why’s and what fors:  The rationale behind the rate…  The Background: Historically, damages for personal injury have been paid by way of a lump sum award.  The object of the award was “to place the injured party as nearly as possible in the same financial position but for the accident”. Damages for any future losses would be paid to the claimant at time of trial or agreed settlement.  As the claimant would be receiving a lump sum “up front” the award would be discounted to allow for the net investment income that could be earned on the lump sum (the courts taking the view that the claimant’s investment should be “risk free”). In 2001, The Lord Chancellor, who has the power to fix the discount rate, settled on a rate of 2.5% - based on a portfolio of 100% index-linked gilts (ILGs). The present: Fast forward a few years and the claimant fraternity has been arguing that the interest earned on ILGs was far less than 2.5% and, as such, the discount rate should be adjusted accordingly.  The counter argument has been that 1) Periodical Payment Orders (PPOs) are available and 2) with a large lump sum to invest, a mixed portfolio is what is chosen in reality by the claimant. Following a review in 2017, the rate has now been set at -0.75%, resulting in widespread challenge and objection from the Insurance market and from within the government itself. Importantly, the Chancellor has now agreed to revisit the framework and methodology used to set the discount rate in the future. What this means: effect of the move from a 2.5% to -0.75% discount rate: Any change to the discount rate results in an immediate change to the “multipliers” detailed in the Ogden tables (the tables which provide the correct multiplier used when calculating future losses). Clearly a reduction in the discount rate increases the award, as per the following basic examples: Example 1 - a 40 year old male sustaining an injury, resulting in him being unable to work again (pre-injury earnings of £20,000 p/a): At a 2.5% discount rate the calculation is £20,000 x 18.09 (current Ogden multiplier) = £361,800 At -0.75% this becomes £20,000 x 26.52 (new Ogden multiplier) = £530,400   Example 2 - a 20 year old male sustaining a catastrophic injury, requiring care for the rest of his life (care costing £200,000 p/a): At 2.5% the calculation is £200,000 x 32.10 (current Ogden multiplier) = £6,420,000 At -0.75% this becomes £200,000 x 88.96 (new Ogden multiplier)  = £17,792,000   The claimant does still of course have the option of a PPO but that does seem to be a less attractive option with these changes. Those worst affected are likely to be young or older drivers but there’s little doubt that most drivers will see a marked change when it comes to their renewal. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/ogden-the-guide https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/ogden-the-guide Wed, 29 March 2017 12:15:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/auto-windscreens-gives-competition-the-elbow Auto Windscreens announced a giant leap ahead of the competition as it revealed official backing for its ADAS solution from leading manufacturers, Mazda, Toyota and Volkswagen Group UK. Auto Windscreens is the only glass repair and replacement company using the vehicle manufacturers to recalibrate its customer’s windscreens, working with over 4000 dealerships to ensure that it has access to all of the vehicle manufacturer’s latest technology, a major plus for insurers. Rupert Armitage, Managing Director of Auto Windscreens commented: “In our opinion drivers could be left with vehicles that are unsafe if they have their Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) recalibrated using a third party aftermarket solution following a windscreen replacement.” Auto Windscreens  is the only leading vehicle glass repair company to have invested in building partnerships with manufacturers to combat issues around ADAS, rather than committing to spend on non-manufacturer built recalibration equipment. It has developed a unique relationship with them to ensure any vehicle incorporating ADAS is fitted with an OEM windscreen and is recalibrated by their dealers. This importantly means driver safety is guaranteed and manufacturer warranties remain intact. Rupert Armitage, Auto Windscreens’ Managing Director, added: “There is no doubt that there has been much discussion about how to best tackle ADAS windscreens but, as you can see from the statements below, manufacturers are clear on their stance on the usage of OEM glass and authorised repairers being their preferred approach. We expect other vehicle producers to issue similar statements, as we have seen from their US counterparts. Our solution, working with ‘the experts’ for recalibration, means we are able to handle the ADAS requirements for any screen, even those brand new to market owing to the diagnostic equipment being constantly updated, and we know that, should any incident or fault occur relating to these technologies following any glass repairs or replacements, our partners and their customers are fully protected. For each vehicle, we can show that the correct manufacturer process for static and dynamic calibration has been carried out, along with a complete global system check, by a manufacturer trained technician.” Mazda Mazda commits significant resource to the development and integration of increasingly sophisticated systems to maximise safety and reduce driver stress and fatigue. As many of these source operational data from the windscreen-mounted camera, it is crucial that the accuracy of this component is never compromised. In the interest of best practice Mazda UK has worked with Auto Windscreens to implement a process whereby its installation teams work hand-in-hand with the UK Mazda dealer network, using only genuine Mazda windscreen glass and systematically involving Mazda technicians when front cameras require post-replacement recalibration. We believe this offers our customers reassurance that their assistance systems are working exactly as our engineers intended following a screen replacement. Toyota GB In order to increase occupant and pedestrian* safety Toyota launched Toyota Safety Sense, a driver aid system aimed at mitigating the risk of accidents. The system utilises a front camera, mounted to the windscreen, to detect oncoming obstacles. Following windscreen replacement it is necessary to calibrate the Toyota Safety Sense system in order to ensure the system performs according to its design specification. The only Toyota approved method of calibration is to use Toyota Special Service Tools and Toyota’s Repair Manual. For this reason we have partnered with Auto Windscreens, to ensure all Toyota Safety Sense systems are calibrated according to Toyota’s standards. *dependent on model Volkswagen Group UK Ltd Advanced Driver Assistance Systems are designed to increase safety and reduce driver stress and fatigue. Some of these systems work with data from the windscreen-mounted camera and it is important that the accuracy of these systems is not compromised. When a replacement windscreen is required, Volkswagen Group recommends using a genuine windscreen to maintain the structural integrity of the vehicle’s body shell. If an ADAS recalibration is required, using a Volkswagen Group approved repairer provides reassurance that the camera-based systems have been correctly configured by those who know them best. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/auto-windscreens-gives-competition-the-elbow https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/auto-windscreens-gives-competition-the-elbow Wed, 29 March 2017 12:12:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/garys-march-preamble-2017 It’s the first Loop-e of 2017 so I’ll cut straight to the chase… Ogden. It’s been a tough market for insurers and brokers alike and now that the new discount rate has been thrown into the mix it feels like, as an industry, we’re in the mouth of Jaws about to be devoured in one nasty bite. To quote the infamous line from the blockbuster, “We’re gonna need a bigger boat”. It’s no surprise that industry leaders everywhere have openly voiced their concern over the reported 5.8bn that it will cost insurers. Like others we have committed to fight this decision head on, with our CEO, Kevin Spencer joining 16 other key figures in insurance to discuss the matter with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond back in February. There is much debating left to be done before the ruling is re-positioned, begging the question, what can we do in the meantime? The difficulty for you, the broker, will be explaining to customers that the spike in prices is not because we’ve suddenly gone gun-ho with our rates. Gaining the trust of the public has always been a challenge for insurers and brokers, now even more so. We’re all in this together which is why one of the articles in this edition is a guide to Ogden.     But it’s not all doom and gloom. We not only have the ruling on reforms to small claims to celebrate but are also still on cloud nine after being voted number 4 in the Sunday Times Best Big Companies to Work For List 2017. Spring has certainly included a sharp frost so far but, going forward, I hope that alongside the inevitable April showers there is also the odd ray of sunshine on the horizon. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/garys-march-preamble-2017 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/garys-march-preamble-2017 Wed, 29 March 2017 12:07:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/uk-broker-summit-vs-broker50 One of my many responsibilities as Group Commercial Director is to represent Markerstudy at various industry functions and events. And, contrary to popular belief, these aren't all held at football grounds and on fairways! In the past few weeks I've attended the two principal conference and networking events for our fellow insurers and brokers; the Insurance Age UK Broker Summit and the Insurance Times Broker50. The UK Broker Summit was held over two days at the Pennyhill Park Hotel near Ascot. Day 1 consisted of two presentations from non-insurance people; the first being an economist who spoke at length about the current turmoil in the political world and what we might expect to happen. Some interesting stuff, but frankly she seemed to have as much idea as anyone else you might meet in the pub! Following that we had a couple of hours on Blockchain technology and the advancement of BitCoin. I suggest you look this up online as I'm still not in a position to answer questions on either! Delegates were then invited to select three sessions hosted by conference partners for the afternoon. In the evening there was a dinner and entertainment in the form of ex-footballer Ray Stubbs who amused us by discussing various encounters he’d had in the sporting world over the past 20 years of working for the BBC. Day 2 was opened by the editor of Post Mag, Emmanuel Kenning, and the inimitable Jonathan Swift – Incisive Media’s content director - holding an open forum on the state of the market. It gave us delegates the opportunity to voice opinion on everything from Compliance to the recent well-publicised Ogden reforms.  Closing the day was a presentation by Caspar Berry, professional gambler turned motivational speaker, on the benefits of fully assessing risk.  The Broker50 is a more targeted event; only open to senior representatives from the biggest brokers. It was held at the Chewton Glen Hotel in the New Forest, so not too far for me to travel (although others had various tales of woe getting there). The approach at this event was fully interactive, with panel discussions and delegates invited to ask questions throughout. The topics were focused around Compliance and the introduction of the certificate of competency for senior staff.  The anticipated extra work for what appears little benefit caused spirited debate, and recognition that ‘we’ must be more involved in the structure of what's required. The second session was another in-depth look at the market and where Personal Lines and Commercial brokers were likely to find themselves in three to five years.  This also produced a fair amount of heated discussion, with the overall consensus being there would be a lot more merging and acquiring in the broker sector and getting super-sized seemed to be the best option for development and survival. Hot air aside, the broking sector is certainly under more pressure than I can recall in my 39 years in Insurance and a further constriction of the market seems inevitable as we strive for ways to deal with the newer challenges presenting themselves. This event also includes after dinner entertainment - delivered to us by Alexis Conran who appeared in the TV show The Real Hustle; with fraud as the focal point, he performed scams to highlight how gullible people can be in certain situations. This was the undoubted highlight of the event! What did I like? All in all, they were two decent events, bringing together brokers from across the spectrum of Commercial and Personal Lines and allowing plenty of opportunity for networking and generally debating what's what and who's who. What could be better? Holding these events within five days reduces the overall effectiveness, in my opinion, so the two publications really need to talk to each other and come up with a different approach on dates - as I'm sure both were affected adversely by attendee numbers. And finally, No brown envelopes were exchanged on the writing of this report! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/uk-broker-summit-vs-broker50 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/march/29/uk-broker-summit-vs-broker50 Wed, 29 March 2017 12:05:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/february/24/best-companies Markerstudy Group of Companies is on cloud nine following its fifth year of success at The Sunday Times Best Companies to Work For Awards. Stampeding into the Best Big Company ‘Top 30’ category for the first year, the Group beat off fierce competition from top brands, AXA, TSB Bank and Deloitte to be crowned a ‘Top 5 Best Company to Work For’ in the UK. Following a glittering awards ceremony at Battersea Evolution on Thursday 23 rd  February, it placed at a triumphant 4 th  with ‘Extraordinary’ status, three stars (the highest) and glowing statistics to match. The insurer, which turns sixteen this year, has been a Best Company to Work For, for the last five years in a row, and was one of just three insurance businesses to be named in the big company category this year. It was also awarded the Investors in People Gold Champion Standard for a further three years in 2016. Surveys conducted as part of the awards found 82% of employees believe that they can contribute to the success of the organisation and 82% of staff said that they go out of their way to help each other and have fun together. Furthermore the company was ranked 1 st  for wellbeing and 2 nd  for giving something back. Gary Humphrey, Group Underwriting Director commented: “This is a defining moment for us. To be named a ‘Best Company to Work For’ in Britain is a highlight of our business history and there have been many, many highs. We have grown and evolved considerably since our humble beginnings in 2001 but we have always strived to create something that our employees can be proud of. We are dedicated to combining a successful business model with happy staff and to receive direct feedback from our employees telling us that we’ve nailed it - that is, quite simply, the best!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/february/24/best-companies https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/february/24/best-companies Fri, 24 February 2017 16:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/january/10/dash-cam-proves-liability-in-gloucester-motorcyclist-crash Markerstudy   today released the footage of a serious incident to highlight the importance of in-vehicle CCTV technology. The video shows their policy holder driving along the road when a motorcycle comes out of nowhere onto the wrong side of the road and crashes straight into the vehicle. Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director for Markerstudy commented: “We thought that it was important to showcase how vital dash cam footage can be when an incident occurs. In this case the injuries of the third party are serious and we know immediately, looking at the video, that fault does not lie with the policy holder, meaning that we can put their mind at rest when they are, naturally, very shaken by the event.” The Group has been investing in in-vehicle CCTV technology since 2012, subsequently launching its own in vehicle technology company in 2015,   VisionTrack , specialising in a more affordable high definition cameras that also monitor driving behaviour. Simon Marsh, Managing Director of VisionTrack commented: “This is a perfect example of why I’m so passionate about driver safety and the use of cameras to support better driving. The video shows the brutal reality of an incident but is important because it highlights that a dash cam leaves no room for uncertainty. We can see exactly what happened and I believe that the use of cameras going forward has the potential to transform driving behaviour on our roads.” The policy holder commented: “From my perspective the benefits of dash cameras certainly outweigh the initial outlay in cost as if you are unlucky enough to be involved in an incident, the footage never lies and can be used in your defence. Therefore in theory it should also help to speed up insurance claims.” Gary added: “This footage was instrumental in processing this claim quickly, ultimately benefitting all those involved. In this instance we have provided the policy holder with complimentary renewal on their insurance and one of VisionTrack’s high definition cameras to show our gratitude for such responsible driving.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/january/10/dash-cam-proves-liability-in-gloucester-motorcyclist-crash https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2017/january/10/dash-cam-proves-liability-in-gloucester-motorcyclist-crash Tue, 10 January 2017 11:15:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/the-perfect-solution For customers suffering a total loss and literally feeling ‘at a loss’ of what to do, we offer the perfect solution.  Vehicle Replacement Solutions  is our one stop shop, offering a replacement vehicle for customers who want another car without the usual hassle. With over 10,000 vehicles to choose from, we’ll ensure that your needs are met and can tailor all options to fit your available budget – and the feedback speaks for itself. "I would just like to take the time to say a massive thank you to Martin for everything he has done for me. From the day I had my crash I thought it was the end of the world. I thought I would never find another car but Martin has helped me through the whole process from start to finish."  Kieron Lamont, Millom https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/the-perfect-solution https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/the-perfect-solution Tue, 13 December 2016 14:31:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/ho-ho-hub! Just in time for the festive season we have an exciting little Christmas treat for you in the form of our new Markerstudy Broker Hub. Combining fun and practicality, the Hub is like an interactive online insurance version of the nativity with our wise Broker Managers bringing forth gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh – or in our case, useful information on Markerstudy, Zenith and Zenith Marque. Key features include: Breaking Markerstudy news, articles and entertaining content A forum to exchange views with the broking community on current industry news Product information that enables quick online reference to information regarding our portfolio Markerstudy hosted broker events Updates on the Broker Management Team Key contact Information – Who’s Who An Online Cover Note Tool (Coming soon!) Plus much, much more… To register, visit: https://broker.markerstudy.com Your username can be found in the email we sent, along with a training pack. If you didn't receive an email, please email us . Before you log-in for the first time, you will need to set your password at the following link: https://broker.markerstudy.com/Account/ResetPasswordSendEmail If you would like to request additional users for access to the Broker Hub, please email us at brokermanagement@markerstudy.com with their full name and email address. So what are you waiting for…get into insurance’s answer to the nativity - the Broker Hub! And don’t forget to add us to your ‘Favourites’ for easy and regular access – HO HO HO! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/ho-ho-hub! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/ho-ho-hub! Tue, 13 December 2016 10:09:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/ding-dong-merrily-on-high! You may or may not have had the ‘pleasure’ of hearing some of our Broker Managers serenading Christmas lovers far and wide across Twitter with a twist on the classic, ‘Do they know it’s Christmas’. If you missed it you can view over three minutes of sheer harmonious joy here… those of a nervous disposition may want to have a stiff drink or some earplugs handy... https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/ding-dong-merrily-on-high! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/ding-dong-merrily-on-high! Tue, 13 December 2016 09:43:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/garys-christmas-preamble There’s a classic phrase ‘when things don’t go right, go left’ which seems highly appropriate in the year that the UK voted to exit the EU and America elected to have Donald Trump as its new president. What is going on I hear you cry?! …And truth be told, I’m as baffled as the next person! One of the things that makes life interesting and sometimes scary is not knowing what is coming next. I’m a planner by nature and surprisingly risk averse, even more so as I get older (the irony!) but there are some things that are simply outside of your control. Celebrating our 15th anniversary as a business, 2016 is a year where we’ve slowed down slightly and taken stock in order to plan for new ventures and the years ahead. We also launched our first apprenticeship programme, ALEX (Apprenticeship Learning Experience), taking on 30 employees fresh out of school in various roles with very little knowledge of working life but a bucket load of enthusiasm. If I were to do it all again I would tell my younger self this... 1. Planning can sometimes only get you so far, you must learn to think on your feet. Despite our best endeavours to map out our strategy we must also keep our plans fluid and remain agile in order to accommodate the various changes that life invariably throws into the mix – this remains true for us to this day and has been the key to us achieving so much in a relatively short time. 2. Embrace opportunity and keep going! We must all pull together and make the best of the changes that come and go. Years ago this was making new deals and turning my dreams into reality regardless of any ‘forks’ in the road. Now it is manoeuvring through tax increases, new regulation and economic uncertainty. Change can be good, after all – something that we can only really judge when the journey eventually comes to an end. 3. Be grateful. Never stop being grateful for what you have achieved and the people who have helped you get there. My hope for all of you is that 2016 has been a good year and 2017 is even better. I would therefore like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our partners. You help make our business great and the industry even better. My final thought would be this - if a plan doesn’t work, change the plan but never the goal. A very merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/garys-christmas-preamble https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/december/13/garys-christmas-preamble Tue, 13 December 2016 09:30:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/november/08/markerstudy-insurance-crowned-regional-2016-gartner-financial-services-eye-on-innovation-winner-for-connected-vehicle-camera-road-safety-technology Thanks to the work of our in-vehicle CCTV provider, VisionTrack and Markerstudy’s IT division we were crowned the 2016 regional winner (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) and winner of the ‘Most Innovative Digital Customer Service or Product’ category at the prestigious Gartner Financial Services "Eye on Innovation" Awards in Barcelona last month. Markerstudy launched  VisionTrack , a combined camera and telematics in-vehicle solutions provider, in February to help improve road safety to benefit the business, its partners, the insurance and fleet industries and drivers everywhere. The new venture takes advantage of next generation camera technology and has connected it, in real-time, to a bespoke cloud-based ‘internet of things’ (IoT) platform, allowing the insurer to track a vehicle and predict driving patterns. Gartner, the world's leading information technology research and advisory company, holds the annual awards to recognise ‘innovative use of technology-enabled capabilities to highlight best-in-class financial industry initiatives’ and the event is deemed to be the most important gathering of CIOs and senior IT leaders. Dan Fiehn, Markerstudy’s IT Director, commented on the double win: “Markerstudy is a forward-facing organisation that always looks to improve processes and adopt new technologies in insurance. Being recognised for this by Gartner at an international level is fantastic. “Our multi-award winning big data enterprise platform combines with a new automated machine learning capability. Using the VisionTrack 3G telematics cameras, this allows us to track a vehicle, predict driving patterns and warn customers of potential incident black spots on their journey ahead. Targeting the fleet industry, owners are able to effectively manage their vehicles, monitor driver behaviours, and benefit from a true picture of events should any incident occur.” Markerstudy is seeing a lower number of claims from customers and a considerable reduction in fraud, as a result of the technology. Simon Marsh, VisionTrack’s Managing Director, added: “This win demonstrates just how advanced the platform we use is. The functionality it provides, combined with our next generation VT2000 camera, shows how much technology can play an important role in helping drivers and fleets to be safer.” To speak to Simon Marsh about VisionTrack cameras and the cloud please email: smarsh@visiontrack.com or call: 07825 609140. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/november/08/markerstudy-insurance-crowned-regional-2016-gartner-financial-services-eye-on-innovation-winner-for-connected-vehicle-camera-road-safety-technology https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/november/08/markerstudy-insurance-crowned-regional-2016-gartner-financial-services-eye-on-innovation-winner-for-connected-vehicle-camera-road-safety-technology Tue, 08 November 2016 17:20:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/30/discounts-available-for-3g-telematics-cameras-with-visiontrack Our specialist provider of in-vehicle CCTV solutions, VisionTrack , is able to give preferential rates for its HD telematics cameras to brokers with a Markerstudy account. Two advanced cameras are available: the VT2000 device with full HD 1080p video recording that can give you a comprehensive view of any incident and can provide court admissible evidence due to its Codec Encryption, protecting against exaggerated claims and crash for cash scams, and the VT1000, designed for smaller fleets. A 'must have' for insurance companies, vehicle management providers, fleets and anyone with a vehicle, the in-built cameras with super-wide angle lens and G-sensor can give an accurate report on driver behaviour and protect against insurance fraud. The VT2000 boasts the capability to transmit video footage using extremely low amounts of data, making this type of technology more effective and affordable for those looking to improve safety and driver monitoring activities. VisionTrack Managing Director, Simon Marsh comments “As a leading provider of in-vehicle CCTV technology, it’s great to be able to offer the best deals to our broker partners. I’m passionate about driver safety and these HD cameras provide a cost effective and accessible solution to those looking to improve driver behaviour and provide peace of mind in the event of an incident.” To find out how you can benefit from preferential rates please call Simon Marsh on 07825609140 or email: simon@visiontrack.com www.visiontrack.com https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/30/discounts-available-for-3g-telematics-cameras-with-visiontrack https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/30/discounts-available-for-3g-telematics-cameras-with-visiontrack Fri, 30 September 2016 10:13:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/super-myths-–-busted! With Over 20 years’ experience, the team at gadget and mobile phone insurer, Supercover , have seen some tall tales in their time when it comes to gadget insurance. With the help of Operations Director, John Fannon and Business Development Manager, Bernie Nunn we’ve put together a complete guide of common myths below, so that you can tell fact from fiction: MYTH 1: “If my customer claims, then my business gets a commission clawback.” FACT: With Supercover, the number of claims paid does not affect your commission because all claims are paid from the Insurer’s Fund. Supercover offer unlimited claims and NO CLAWBACK on all genuine policies. MYTH 2: “Insurers don’t pay out - they try to wiggle out of claims.” FACT: In 2015 Supercover only refused 3.8% of all claims received*, so you can offer our insurance and be confident that it ‘does what it says on the tin’. *Claim data taken from 1st Jan 2015 – 31st Dec 2015 for all claims relating to insurance sold via our Mobile Phone Dealer Channel. MYTH 3: “My customers aren’t looking for mobile phone and gadget insurance.” FACT: “In Jan 2016 there were 80,700¹ Google searches for Mobile Phone Insurance, and other related keywords². And demand is increasing because that’s a 15% increase on the same period in 2015!³ That’s a lot of revenue you’re missing by not offering this type of insurance.” ¹Data source: Figure taken from the Average Monthly Searches in Google Keyword Planner Tool for January 2016. ²Keywords include: Mobile Phone Insurance, Phone Insurance, iPhone Insurance, Mobile Insurance, Cheap Phone Insurance, Best Phone Insurance, Gadget Insurance. ³Compared with 70,200 - the Average Monthly Searches January 2015. MYTH 4: “Gadgets are covered under business or home insurance.” FACT: These policies don’t always cover items taken outside of the business or home, and rarely provide extended warranty. Also, the average excess for a home policy is £318¹ versus £50² with Supercover, and a claim with us will not result in a loss of any no-claims bonus. ¹Average home policy excess taken from 42 insurance providers on ComparetheMarket.com. Policy quote carried out on 23 June 2016 is based on £50,000 contents cover and includes a £250 voluntary excess. ²Supercover’s excess is £25 for a gadget up to the value of £250 (when new), £50 for a gadget between the values of £251 - £500 (when new), and £75 for a gadget over the value of £501 (when new). For more information on Gadget Insurance, please email Bernie or email John . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/super-myths-–-busted! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/super-myths-–-busted! Wed, 28 September 2016 16:29:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/auto-windscreens-names-rupert-armitage-as-managing-director UK vehicle glass repair company, Auto Windscreens , has named Rupert Armitage as its new Managing Director. Rupert has been Acting Managing Director since January 2016 and will now lead the business moving forward. Prior to joining Auto Windscreens, Rupert spent 27 years as a director of the investment banking group Shore Capital, where he was responsible for large customer relationships and trading in global markets. His wealth of experience has enabled him to expertly assess all areas of the windscreen repair and replacement company, establishing development areas and identifying new opportunities as a result. “Auto Windscreens saw a huge amount of change in 2015, which presented a number of challenges moving into 2016,” Rupert commented. “We have been carefully reviewing how we operate and are now in a stronger position than ever to best serve our partners and customers.” Rupert has been instrumental in bringing about several key operational changes that have seen the company thrive this year, including the introduction of Area Deployment Centres and a new Fitting Hub network. He added: “The last nine months have been exciting and the team here are fantastic, being key to Auto Windscreens’ success. I’m delighted to be appointed to the role of Managing Director officially and am eager to see where we can take Auto Windscreens in 2017 and beyond.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/auto-windscreens-names-rupert-armitage-as-managing-director https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/auto-windscreens-names-rupert-armitage-as-managing-director Wed, 28 September 2016 16:15:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/we’ve-got-our-game-on! We’ve been strategising our long term game plan and want to do more with brokers with whom we feel there is enormous potential for growth. We’ve therefore organised three events this autumn designed to showcase the amazing opportunities available to those who work with us. Some of you may have already received your invites to the events below but if you haven’t and would like to come please get in touch: Wednesday 12th October, Hotel Football, Manchester. Thursday 13th October, Edgbaston Cricket Ground, Birmingham. The format will include a ‘meet and greet’, followed by a presentation introducing the scope of the group and our product range, finishing with drinks and a buffet. If you would like more information on this and other events with the Broker Managers please email us . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/we’ve-got-our-game-on! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/we’ve-got-our-game-on! Wed, 28 September 2016 14:59:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/a-‘marqued’-difference Since we acquired Chaucer Insurance last year, the commercial team, now ‘Zenith Marque Commercial’, based in our Whitstable office, have been busy growing the commercial account and supplying a range of products to commercial brokers who hadn’t previously done business with Chaucer Insurance. Our aim is for Markerstudy to be a recognised player in the commercial market, as well as motor and other personal lines and we’ve been working tirelessly to nurture the great team behind the scenes. Who are we? The team is made up of eighteen underwriting staff with over 170 years of insurance experience between them. More than half already hold a qualification with the Chartered Insurance Institute and several others are in the middle of their studies, so we like to think we know a thing or two about commercial insurance! What do we do? The Commercial team comprises four units, based around our products: SME - This unit provides our commercial combined product and provides bespoke commercial solutions for a massive range of trades and occupations. Micro - Providing Tradesman’s Package and standalone liability, this Unit trades electronically on our Extranet and via Acturis. Motor Trade - From Garage Risks only to full Motor Trade Combined, this unit provides a solution for everything from under-the-arches to Formula-e teams. Property Owners - From single pdhs to large commercial schedules, we provide all the cover a landlord needs. We love a challenge and finding solutions to difficult problems is one of the things that drives us. So where does Zenith Marque Commercial go from here? We’re providing new agencies to Commercial brokers, to help increase our distribution and develop our presence in the market. Our objective is to grow the business and stay flexible, approachable and knowledgeable (as well as profitable!) whilst we do it. No-one said it would be easy, but we can provide a dynamic, helpful and accessible market for even more commercial clients. We’ve produced the Zenith Marque Commercial Insurance Act 2015: A Guide for Brokers , including frequently asked questions about the new Act and Zenith Marque’s approach to its radical implications for commercial insurance. Click on the link above to read our guide. You can also find out more on LinkedIn . To speak to our dedicated team please email or call 01227 284769: Stuart Dickinson, Head of Commercial Email Stuart Tom Morrissey, Deputy Head of Commercial (SME) Email Tom Kat Hollman, Commercial Unit Head (Motor trade) Email Kat Clare Shahzad, Motor Trade Assistant Underwriter (Motor Trade) Email Clare Kayleigh Wicks, Commercial Team Leader Email Kayleigh Keely Ide (Micro) Email Keely https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/a-‘marqued’-difference https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/september/28/a-‘marqued’-difference Wed, 28 September 2016 12:44:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/31/tripadvisor-new-entry-bobs-caff ** (WARNING! CONTAINS ADULT THEMES!) “Met friends at Bob's cafe today. Initially a bit disappointed that Gary, one of the owners wasn't in, but we were looked after by Neil who did a great job as front of house. Menu was a bit limited but great coffee and was more than made up for by their fantastic range of va-jazzle smoothies; they even had organic, vegan 'like a peach' and 'light perm' options. Neil had his tasty looking sausage on show on the table as I left so hopefully the menu will broaden in time. Shame they have a 'no whippets in caff' rule, but don't let that put you off visiting as you won't be disappointed. 5 star, recommended..." Anonymous Covea representative     Genuinely trying to buy coffee and a bacon butty! Broker Management Team Contact Markerstudy Group Email: brokermanagement@markerstudy.com https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/31/tripadvisor-new-entry-bobs-caff https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/31/tripadvisor-new-entry-bobs-caff Tue, 31 May 2016 17:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/27/bobs-your-uncle It’s safe to say that for most of you who attended BIBA this year, our stand may have been a bit of a surprise. There’s no doubt that this year’s theme was a deviation from the norm, taking things right back to basics and emulating the original ‘caff’ that Kevin Spencer and I frequented in Sidcup to do business and plot our next steps to world domination. To say that ‘Bob’s Caff’ was no Claridges would be an understatement, but amid bacon butties and copious mugs of tea it is here that the magic happened. Sidcup served us well in those early years, but ‘location, location, location’! Eventually we were able to fund our move up the property ladder to Sevenoaks. At this year’s BIBA we wanted to show that we haven’t forgotten Bob’s Caff and if you joined us for a cuppa, you can attest to the fact that our ‘homage’ was as authentic as humanly possible! As celebrations take place for Shakespeare's 400 years, our intention was to step back in time, too (although not that far, admittedly!) to our humble beginnings, and show that great things can happen if you have the strength of will, tenacity and self-belief… And as Shakespeare quoted: Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them. I like to think that Kevin and I have achieved something special with Markerstudy! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/27/bobs-your-uncle https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/27/bobs-your-uncle Fri, 27 May 2016 15:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/23/bobs-caff-biba-highlights While the suited and booted rushed from meeting to meeting, gathering blisters en-route, our stand provided a welcome respite. Our caff staff of Paul Copeland, Neil Hayden, Ruth Robinson, Dan Woods, Jim Wylie and Michael Brigden were dressed appropriately (or not!), ready to ensure that no one had to survive the two day extravaganza without the chance to put the world to rights with a builder’s brew and a bacon butty. If you missed the 15 year memento of a branded mug, packet of chocolate digestives and branded tea towel, you know who to ask!    View our BIBA highlights here: https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/23/bobs-caff-biba-highlights https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/23/bobs-caff-biba-highlights Mon, 23 May 2016 11:39:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/16/keychoice-extends-its-motor-insurance-panel-through-new-partnership-with-markerstudy Markerstudy Group of Companies is the latest insurer to partner with Keychoice, the insurance distribution business owned by SSP. Keychoice brokers are able to access Zenith Insurance and Zenith Marque private car and commercial vehicle insurance products at exclusive preferential rates. The Keychoice business gives over 500 member brokers access to a wide range of products to meet the needs of their customers, helping to drive business growth whilst also increasing sales for insurers. Keychoice has positioned data at the heart of its insurance company proposition, enabling insurers to benefit from unique data sets that are only available through the Keychoice business. This provides real insight into how much business they are writing through the channel and how they can improve their pricing to become more competitive. The partnership demonstrates further revitalisation of the Keychoice proposition following the strengthening of its team with new hires in recent months. Liz Mitchell, General Manager, Keychoice commented: “Markerstudy is a great addition for our members and enhances the force of our proposition. We are at an exciting phase in the evolution of Keychoice as we continue to expand the complementary strategic partnerships on our motor insurance panel." Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Management at Markerstudy added: “Keychoice is a well-recognised brand, but we were also impressed with the commitment of the team and its ability to communicate with a wider number of fast-growing brokers and deploy products in a cost-effective way. The additional data-driven insights provided by SSP complete a full package that offers us enhanced product performance and real competitive advantage”. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/16/keychoice-extends-its-motor-insurance-panel-through-new-partnership-with-markerstudy https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/16/keychoice-extends-its-motor-insurance-panel-through-new-partnership-with-markerstudy Mon, 16 May 2016 09:24:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/10/markerstudy-launches-pet-aggregator,-go-get-it! Markerstudy has announced that it will be launching its own pet aggregator site, Go Get it! With the specialist knowledge of Ultimate, one of the leading providers and third party administrators of pet insurance in the UK, they will be launching the site in May after identifying a gap in the market for a price comparison site that is focused purely and solely on pet insurance. Utilising its platform specifically designed for pets, it will offer cover for cats and dogs and feature quotes from a number of partners as well as its own direct brands, Paws & Claws, Petwise, UIS Pet and Purely Pets. Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director commented: “Go Get it will enable insurers and distributors to promote their products in a pet specialist environment. Where others are looking to reduce products, we are looking to increase our contracts, keeping processes intentionally simple to enable active participation and keep a low cost per acquisition to enable prices to remain competitive.” Paul Hampshire, Managing Director of Ultimate Insurance Solutions, added:  “We already work with insurers and affinity partners providing anything from a full 360 degree branded service to bespoke claims handling services. Adding a pet aggregator site to this offering makes complete sense. Our systems are at the forefront of technology, enabling us to enhance the customer’s experience and provide an even greater opportunity for partners and for our future growth.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/10/markerstudy-launches-pet-aggregator,-go-get-it! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/10/markerstudy-launches-pet-aggregator,-go-get-it! Tue, 10 May 2016 14:52:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/04/markerstudy-celebrates-15-year-milestone Markerstudy Group of Companies, is celebrating 15 years of business today. Founded by Group CEO, Kevin Spencer and Group Underwriting Director, Gary Humphreys on 4th May 2001 and renowned for brands Zenith Insurance, Markerstudy Insurance and Auto Windscreens, the business has benefitted from a string of successive achievements and impressive accolades, including 42 award wins in the last three years alone, a ‘Gold Standard’ tribute from Investors In People and ‘Extraordinary’ status in The Sunday Times 100 Best Company to Work For, for four years running. The entrepreneurs, who joined forces in 2000 with hopes to write £10M in business in year one, now control a turnover of over £2 billion, with 55 brands, 95 properties and almost 4,000 staff. The Group released the ‘15’ infographic to celebrate its meteoric growth and will mark the milestone with its very own mini Glastonbury-style festival, ‘MSG Fest’, held at recent acquisition, Bewl Water in Kent, along with over 3,500 employees, family and esteemed friends. Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director, commented: “We simply cannot believe how far we have come in this relatively short time. We’ve already far exceeded our own expectations, and now enjoy raising our own bar! Our success has been due to good instincts, tenacity, courage and a fair bit of luck. But I must also extend a heartfelt thank you to our fantastic employees, brokers and insurer partners, without whom, none of this would be possible. All have played a considerable part in our short but exhilarating journey and we can’t wait to see where the next 15 years takes us.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/04/markerstudy-celebrates-15-year-milestone https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/may/04/markerstudy-celebrates-15-year-milestone Wed, 04 May 2016 15:41:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/april/19/markerstudy-announces-new-structure-for-retail-division The prosperous retail division of Markerstudy is undergoing a refocus, following the resignation of Managing Director, Russell Bence, who leaves the company on 30th April after 7 years. The division, which employs nearly 700 staff, will be restructured into four distinct units, with the incumbent Operations Directors promoted to the positions of Divisional Heads, reporting to Martyn Holman, Group Commercial Director. Ross Barrington, who transferred to Markerstudy in November 2013 when the group acquired the BDML Connect business from Capita, will head up Insurer relations, and brands Insurance Factory, Insurance Shop and BDML. Having also transferred from Capita ownership, Richard Morley will continue his responsibility for the classic car insurance brand Lancaster, which won a hat trick of awards last year for its customer-centric marketing strategy. Amanda Kerry-Wallington will continue as figurehead of the highly successful specialist insurance broker and claims administrator, Supercover, which was acquired by the group in 2014. And Neil Muldoon, who joined the group in 2015 when it acquired personal lines insurer The Policy Shop, secures the top position for brands Insurance Choice and The Policy Shop. Martyn Holman commented “This is a hugely exciting opportunity for the new Divisional Heads to grow their sectors with greater autonomy. Promoting from within is our preference, ensuring we lose nothing of the specialist brand knowledge and experience gained over many years. I have every confidence in Ross, Richard, Amanda and Neil to drive their brands forward. We of course thank Russell for the part he has played in growing the retail division by 70% during his tenure, and we wish him every success in his next role. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/april/19/markerstudy-announces-new-structure-for-retail-division https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/april/19/markerstudy-announces-new-structure-for-retail-division Tue, 19 April 2016 11:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/april/14/markerstudy-scoops-‘operational-excellence’-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2016 Markerstudy is celebrating a second year of success as a ‘Celent Model Insurer’, after scooping the ‘Operational Excellence’ award 2016. The accolade, which rewards excellence in insurance technology was announced at Celent’s Innovation and Insight Day at Museum of American Finance, New York on Wednesday, 13th April 2016. Known predominantly for its Markerstudy and Zenith insurance products, The Markerstudy Group of companies also features household name Auto Windscreens, classic car specialist Lancaster Insurance, and gadget insurance expert Supercover within its stable. The winning submission was based on Markerstudy’s successful creation of an eco-system of best in class monitoring and infrastructure visualization tools to accelerate cross-functional collaboration and remove key-man dependencies. The projects collectively achieved high scores from independent insurance analysts, evaluating quantitative success measures, degree of innovation, technology or integration excellence and best practice. Dan Fiehn, Director of Group IT, said: “We are delighted to have won the Celent Model Insurer Award for the second year running. Working closely with IT Knowledge Management Company, Doclan and a number of other software tools we’ve taken even further steps in putting our digital strategy at the forefront of our business and we’re thrilled to have our accomplishments in this arena recognised.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/april/14/markerstudy-scoops-‘operational-excellence’-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2016 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/april/14/markerstudy-scoops-‘operational-excellence’-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2016 Thu, 14 April 2016 09:38:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/path-to-production Alongside showcasing some dubious aprons and even more suspicious stains, our Broker Managers spent the majority of BIBA singing the praises of our product and underwriting team and their diverse offering. Going further for you and your clients and fostering a people first culture, based on a close understanding of broking partners’ needs, our experienced team of specialist product heads apply their expertise in devising new and effective products to take advantage of the opportunities your business presents. With a new structure in place, offering bespoke options on a multitude of products, together with an experienced underwriting team trading on matrix rates, broker schemes and bespoke underwriting, including a quoting facility to target risks which would otherwise not be accommodated via screen rates, we’re in the perfect position to work with brokers who want a multi-dimensional, relationship-driven account.  Steve Stone, Head of Product, shares the rationale for his team restructure: "Following the acquisition of Chaucer Insurances, and our subsequent re-brand to Zenith Marque, it was clear that a review of my burgeoning team and product offering across Markerstudy, Zenith and Zenith Marque brands was needed to ensure we continued to meet the needs of our wide customer base. Concluding this review, we now have eight Heads of Division for the Motor and Pet classes of business, reporting directly to me, responsible for a comprehensive product offering." To request a copy of our corporate profile or for more information about any of the products and schemes above please contact the Broker Management Team. If you have any queries relating to our product specifications, or underwriting, please also refer to the relevant Head of Division. Broker Management Team Contact Markerstudy Group Email: brokermanagement@markerstudy.com   Steve Stone GROUP HEAD OF PRODUCT Steve Joined the Markerstudy group in 2010 when he created a new Schemes office in Chelmsford, with colleagues that worked for him at QBE. In 2013 Steve accepted a group role as Head of Product, joining the SMT at the same time. He is now responsible for all non MGA underwriting for the group, reporting to Gary Humphreys. Tim Kemp MOTORCYCLE DIVISION HEAD Tim worked on the broking side of the insurance industry for 20 years before relocating from Yorkshire to Kent in 1996 to join Lombard General in the role of Senior Underwriting Assistant, primarily for motorcycle business. Tim then moved to Chaucer Insurance as Motorcycle Class Underwriter, and subsequently joined Link/Zenith as Head of Motorcycle Product. David Drury COMMERCIAL VEHICLE DIVISION HEAD David started his insurance career at Hastings Insurance Services, where he gained experience in both direct and broker business. Since 2007, David has been responsible for the Zenith commercial vehicle account. Matt Seago PRIVATE CAR DIVISIONAL HEAD Matt has worked in the insurance industry for over 25 years and joined Markerstudy Group in February 2010, responsible for Group Non Standard, which included Zenith Distinction IHR and the Markerstudy Solar products, as well as overseeing the referral department. With a recent promotion, Matt is now Divisional Head of Private Car for Group. Darren Doughty TAXI DIVISION HEAD Darren joined the Markerstudy Group in November 2011 and is based in Chelmsford. With underwriting experience spanning nearly three decades, ranging from Corinthian at Lloyds to HSBC, Darren has strong product credentials in private and public hire.   MARKERSTUDY SCHEMES   Andy Cracknell SCHEME UNDERWRITING DIVISION HEAD Andy began his career in insurance in 1976, joining Steve Stone at Ensign Motor Policies in 2004 which was being acquired by QBE. There they successfully developed QBE’s niche and schemes book before moving together to Markerstudy. Since then they have taken the schemes portfolio from strength to strength. Stuart Dickinson ACII DIVISIONAL HEAD, UK COMMERCIAL Stuart started his career in Personal Lines in 1985 and was recruited by Chaucer Syndicates Ltd in 2007 as Commercial Development Underwriter to broaden Chaucer’s range of UK retail products; in 2011 he became Head of Commercial in Chaucer’s UK Division. Jon Bryant ACII FLEET DIVISION HEAD Jon gained a degree in Business Studies from Southampton Institute and started his career working for a London Market Broker before moving to Chaucer in 2001 within the fleet department. In 2006, Jon moved to work for ERS in the London Market as a Fleet Underwriter. Jon returned to Chaucer Insurance in 2008 to become Head of Fleet, operating predominantly within the Lloyd’s market before changing his role to Head of Commercial Motor in 2012.   THE BESPOKE UNDERWRITING TEAM   Terry Sinnott HEAD OF BESPOKE UNDERWRITING Terry started his insurance career at a London city broker, and then as an underwriter at Premium Line. After a spell as specialist class underwriter at KGM, he joined Markerstudy in 2011 as Head of Bespoke Underwriting. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/path-to-production https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/path-to-production Wed, 23 March 2016 11:16:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/march/01/markerstudy-celebrates-4th-year-as-‘best-company-to-work-for’-in-britain We’re celebrating a fourth year of success at The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For Awards after demonstrating unfaltering strength in the face of tough competition, coming in as one of the top 30 ‘Best Companies to Work For’ in Britain. Following a glittering awards ceremony at Battersea Evolution on Thursday 25th February, Markerstudy placed at a triumphant 29th with ‘Extraordinary’ status, three stars (the highest) and glowing statistics to match. Surveys conducted as part of the awards found that 82% of people believe the company is run on strong principles and 81% of people said that the Group CEO, Kevin Spencer, is an inspirational leader. Gary Humphreys commented: “To once again be a ‘Best Company to Work For’ in Britain is a testament to our tireless commitment to our employees and the great industry we work in. We’re passionate about maintaining our strong sense of fun, and rewarding and recognising our staff in equal measure. We match dedication to our company values with an extraordinary sense of vision and enthusiasm. It’s a brilliant place to work and it’s heartening to see this recognised by Best Companies and all of our loyal staff.” Hot on its heels was another award for Auto Windscreens, scooping Best Customer Satisfaction Strategy at the UK Customer Satisfaction Awards, hosted by the Institute of Customer Service at the London Hilton on Park Lane, 1st March. James Macbeth, Operations Director of Auto Windscreens commented on the win: “Winning Best Customer Satisfaction Strategy is a fantastic recognition of our continued dedication to ensure that we serve our customers to the best of our ability. It’s what Auto Windscreens is all about; our entire business model and customer care strategy is built around this company mantra.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/march/01/markerstudy-celebrates-4th-year-as-‘best-company-to-work-for’-in-britain https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/march/01/markerstudy-celebrates-4th-year-as-‘best-company-to-work-for’-in-britain Tue, 01 March 2016 10:27:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/february/24/markerstudy-successful-in-fundamentally-dishonest-late-claim-case A claimant who attempted to bring a late notified claim for personal injury, 10 months after the accident had taken place, had his claim struck out and was ordered to pay the defendant’s costs in the sum of £5,500 because his claim was found to be ‘fundamentally dishonest’. Derick Sage had been in a collision with Cathryn Stringer, insured by Markerstudy, who decided to defend the claim to trial. Before Sage’s trial , he had endeavoured to amend his claim, alleging that he had been left unable to work since the accident. This was later disputed at a hearing in October 2015 at Bristol County Court where District Judge Watson ruled that: the claimant hadn’t been injured as he had claimed; and his inability to work had nothing to do with the accident, but was due to other medical complaints. the claimant never mentioned the accident to his GP despite being a regular attender. the claimant claimed for the costs of treatment for his injuries but never received any treatment. the claim was fundamentally dishonest. Sage was therefore ordered to pay the defendant’s costs in the sum of £5,500 and lost the protection that was afforded to him under the Qualified One-Way Costs Shifting regime. Mr Nick Hilton, Third Party Claims Manager, at Markerstudy Insurance Co Ltd. said, “Markerstudy has processes in place to ensure that late claims and cases of fraud are defeated. Until the reforms announced by the Chancellor in the Autumn Statement are delivered, late claims will continue to burden insurers and keep premiums unduly high.” DWF Director, Jewels Chamberlain said, “This is another example of Markerstudy’s successful late claims strategy coming to fruition. Mr Sage was intent on pushing his dubious claim all the way to trial. We are delighted that his injury claims were proved false and that the court ordered him to pay Markerstudy’s legal costs.” The issues surrounding late claims have been addressed by the Insurance Fraud Taskforce in their final report. A consultation on the reforms is to be announced in the Autumn Statement over the course of the next two months. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/february/24/markerstudy-successful-in-fundamentally-dishonest-late-claim-case https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/february/24/markerstudy-successful-in-fundamentally-dishonest-late-claim-case Wed, 24 February 2016 11:21:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/january/04/markerstudy-makes-its-marque-on-chaucer-insurance Following our acquisition of Chaucer’s UK motor business last year, we’ve made our own Marque on the business with a new name, Zenith Marque - a perfect fit alongside our existing Zenith brands and Markerstudy proposition. Zenith Marque will continue to specialise in providing high quality motor and commercial insurance solutions via a nationwide broker network. Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Management, commented: “Zenith Marque will embody the Markerstudy principles of commitment to broker requirements and will ensure exemplary standards of customer service and care.” In line with the continuing evolution of our product range, it will also include the run off of Zenith Marque Hi-Marque product with effect from 1st May 2016. Group Underwriting Director, Gary Humphreys added: “With over 50 years’ experience, Zenith Marque will retain Chaucer’s substantial legacy. Benefitting from group investment in technology and underwriting, and with a trusted intermediary development team at the fore, 2016 is the perfect year for us to make our Marque.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/january/04/markerstudy-makes-its-marque-on-chaucer-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2016/january/04/markerstudy-makes-its-marque-on-chaucer-insurance Mon, 04 January 2016 16:51:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/09/we’re-officially-‘extraordinary’! Never ones to rest on our laurels, we are delighted to share that, for our fourth consecutive year, we’ve accomplished ‘Extraordinary’ company to work for status from Best Companies, with ‘Three Stars - the highest available! Kevin Spencer, Group CEO said: “I’m over the moon to hear this news and achieve this recognition. I’m now waiting on tenterhooks to see how we fare in the Top 100 rankings at the awards in 2016!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/09/we’re-officially-‘extraordinary’! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/09/we’re-officially-‘extraordinary’! Wed, 09 December 2015 14:00:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/09/lancaster-insurance-achieves-award-hat-trick! Topping off another successful year, classic car insurance provider, Lancaster Insurance, triumphed at the annual Insurance Times Awards 2015, winning ‘Brand Campaign of the Year - Broker 2015’ at a glitzy ceremony at Battersea Evolution on 3rd December 2015. This new accolade completes a perfect hat trick for 2015, sitting alongside Lancaster’s existing wins for ‘Marketing and Customer Engagement’ at the UK Broker Awards 2015 and ‘Personal Lines Broking Initiative of the Year’ at the British Insurance Awards 2015. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/09/lancaster-insurance-achieves-award-hat-trick! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/09/lancaster-insurance-achieves-award-hat-trick! Wed, 09 December 2015 12:35:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/08/show-us-your-baubles-(aka,-your-data!) In 2016 we will be introducing a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system to bolster our offering, giving our Broker Performance Management team a single view of our customer accounts. For you, this will improve our visibility, understanding and management of your business, giving you more ‘bang for your buck’ with tailored plans and bespoke proposals. Your account executive will be in touch during Q1 of 2016 to share more about this opportunity with you. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/08/show-us-your-baubles-(aka,-your-data!) https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/december/08/show-us-your-baubles-(aka,-your-data!) Tue, 08 December 2015 16:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/apprenticeships-great-for-insurance There has been much talk of late around apprenticeships and ensuring that businesses are building a dedicated programme into their recruitment structure. Taking into account the various regulations and requirements in place, I can see that this raises serious problems for some businesses but there are major long term benefits to those trying to attract fresh blood. We are imminently launching ourselves into the apprenticeships sphere. It won’t surprise you to know that we have put our own unique spin on it! Supported by David Cameron and promoted by institutes such as the CII, apprenticeships seem to be the ‘hot potato’ in the industry, with some eager to jump on the ‘bandwagon’ and others concerned that new regulations make it a somewhat complicated exercise. Using our existing resources such as a dedicated onsite training facility, we have been keen to support a ‘Markerstudy Apprenticeship Scheme’ for some time that played to our strengths without compromising our unique flair for ‘putting the fun into insurance’. We employ a dedicated team whose focus is ensuring that we are continually looking at new ways to support our staff in gaining professional qualifications that are relevant to their role. It is from this desire that a unique idea was born - to create our very own ‘Markerstudy University’, designed to offer a work based route to gaining professional qualifications. In order to make our ‘dream’ a reality and with the continuing diversity of the types of roles within the Markerstudy Group, we have chosen to partner with a national training provider, Babington Group. They have a range of fully skilled assessors who can support an array of qualifications and apprenticeships and also enable us to secure funding from the Government to help facilitate these schemes. It supports our requirement for dedicated and ambitious employees, keen to take up the mantle and also reinforces our promise to our staff that we will do all that we can to support their growth. Our hope is that this move will encourage more young people to take a leap of faith and join what we know to be a rewarding and exciting industry. Our Skills Survey with the CII last year revealed that a worrying (18%) of students questioned would consider a career in insurance. As a business dedicated to investing in its staff, we are proud to have been recognised by Investors in People (Gold) and Best Companies (11th, Sunday Times 100) respectively. The Markerstudy University is another step towards achieving our goals and promoting the unsung opportunities in insurance - of which we all know there are plenty! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/apprenticeships-great-for-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/apprenticeships-great-for-insurance Thu, 10 September 2015 17:04:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/insurance-petrol-heads-compete-for-‘pole-position’ The Markerstudy team revved up their competitive streak on Friday 10th July when they challenged insurance’s finest to participate in a day at premier race karting venue, Daytona. Brilliant sunshine greeted the 73 drivers from the cream of insurance who gathered at the Milton Keynes track. Brokers, insurers and supply chain clients came from far and wide and included key contacts from Autonet, BGL, Grove and Dean, Carole Nash, Adrian Flux, Tesco and Europa. The 18 teams, each led by a Markerstudy Group host, vied to be crowned champion of the 1360m International Circuit, widely considered to be one of the best in the UK. The race format was a two hour endurance event featuring regular driver changes, a mandatory fuel stop, the occasional spin-out and two black flags for over-zealous manoeuvring (mentioning no names…)! There were some strong teams boasting top quality racers but it was the ‘Mad Hammer’ trio, ably led by Clive Fulcher, that eventually piped Ruth Robinson’s ‘Raving Riders’ to the post by just 0.2 seconds! An incredibly tight finish considering the 120 minute race duration. Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Performance Management and ignominious recipient of the race marshals’ ‘Calm Down’ board, commented: “It was a brilliant day, thanks to all our guests for making it such a superb event and see you again next year!”   Photo Gallery https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/insurance-petrol-heads-compete-for-‘pole-position’ https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/insurance-petrol-heads-compete-for-‘pole-position’ Thu, 10 September 2015 16:18:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/we’ve-got-the-key… … But what’s the secret? Keys dropped down drains; locked in the boot of the car or a clean snap in the lock. Supercover have seen them all. The solution to these problems is no longer a secret and you can unlock the potential (excuse the pun) to offer your customers something extra with Supercover’s super new Keycover policy. It’s extremely competitive and could get your customers out of those tric key scenarios. It could be your key (no pun intended this time) to new business. As standard, Supercover’s Keycover currently offers £1,500 cover for Home, Car and Office Keys and covers theft, accidental loss and damage. Unlike others in the market, Supercover provide EU cover and hotel accommodation, and they’ll offer a £20 reward to the finder of the keys, compared with £10 of other insurance providers. All this, plus they’ll cover:    •   Locksmith charges    •   New locks    •   Replacement keys    •   Onward transport costs    •   Vehicle hire    •   Hotel accommodation costs    •   Worldwide Cover    •   Key fob (optional)    •   £20 reward paid if lost keys found Car only or Home only policies are available if required, as inclusive or an add-on. For more information please contact either John Fannon on 07956 113 600 or  email John , or Bernie Nunn on 07833 231 045 or email Bernie , who will be more than happy to come and speak to you about your key cover insurance needs. How does Supercover compare? https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/we’ve-got-the-key… https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/10/we’ve-got-the-key… Thu, 10 September 2015 11:29:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/08/chaucer-is-king-for-the-day! Always keen to don our crown, we plan to arrive in all our finery and play king for the day on the 29th September when Chaucer celebrates its 50th birthday at Leeds Castle. Boasting a golden history, the ‘who’s who’ of insurance will be treated to a royal welcome, joining together to celebrate the milestone in majestic style. Kevin Spencer, Group CEO commented “I’m delighted to be able to share this landmark event with our esteemed friends and partners. We look forward to celebrating Chaucer’s special milestone and shaping the next decade of its business.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/08/chaucer-is-king-for-the-day! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/08/chaucer-is-king-for-the-day! Tue, 08 September 2015 16:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/07/join-us-at-broker-expo-south Join us on Friday 17th September, stand 22-23 at Broker Expo South 2015! We’re excited to be attending Broker Expo South at the new venue of Bristol Marriott City Centre Hotel, giving those of you in the south and south west a more conveniently located expo. Whether you fancy a general industry catch-up, or a business review, you will be warmly welcomed on our stand. Featuring our business development ‘high rollers’, we’ll be bringing a cocktail of niche business and new product development to our extensive offering, showcasing a range of products and policies from Markerstudy Insurance, Zenith Insurance, Chaucer Insurance, Auto Windscreens, Ultimate Insurance Solutions and many more. Specialising in Private Car, Commercial Vehicle, Motorcycle, Motor Trade, Fleet, Motorsport and Commercial, we will be putting the fun into insurance once again and revealing how your business could benefit from partnering with us. To arrange a meeting with our Business Development Team, call 0845 600 4983 or email us . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/07/join-us-at-broker-expo-south https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/september/07/join-us-at-broker-expo-south Mon, 07 September 2015 10:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/july/10/fortes-fortuna-juvat-markerstudy-launches-coat-of-arms 2016 will see us reach a momentous milestone, celebrating 15 years since we first began our incredible journey. It’s been an adventure, and many of you, our loyal partners, have been travelling this road with us.  At this stage in our lifecycle, we felt it was fitting to create our own unique Coat of Arms inscribed with the words Fortes Fortuna Juvat: Fortune Favours the Bold.   The Coat of Arms is a celebration of our heritage and includes our start date in Roman numerals and the symbols of air (the eagle), sea (the shark) and land (the fox), collectively representing the power, speed and agility of the Group.  The new branding was unveiled at our staff conference titled, ‘Strictly Markerstudy’, held at the Genting Arena, Birmingham on 27th June 2015. It was the businesses’ first ever group-wide conference and party, designed to inspire and reward employees and launch our company values. The Group’s vision consists of ten key values, known as ‘V10’ and includes recognition, legacy, integrity, innovation, teamwork and fun. Over 2,500 staff members attended the event, which incorporated motivational seminars from Kevin Spencer, Gary Humphreys, Lord Digby-Jones and Caspar Berry during the day and an evening ‘extravaganza’, enjoyed by select industry colleagues and staff, family and friends, complete with performances from the stars of Strictly Come Dancing and pop rock band, The Script. Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director, said: “Strictly Markerstudy was an incredible event conceived to give our employees unique access to our vision, culture and future goals. The Coat of Arms and ‘V10’ embody everything that we stand for, driven by a common goal – to be the best that we can be.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/july/10/fortes-fortuna-juvat-markerstudy-launches-coat-of-arms https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/july/10/fortes-fortuna-juvat-markerstudy-launches-coat-of-arms Fri, 10 July 2015 15:51:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/june/30/markerstudy-acquisition-of-chaucer-uk-motor-business-approved-by-fca Markerstudy has announced that its bid to acquire Chaucer’s UK motor business (including the business written under the Chaucer Direct brand and REIS) has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority. The transaction, completed on 30th June, will extend the Group’s GWP to in excess of £900M and swell employee numbers by 430. Chaucer’s UK Motor, which is celebrating its 50 th  birthday this year, is headquartered in Whitstable, Kent and provides motor, commercial property and liability insurance to over 450,000 customers in the UK – via intermediaries and brokers, aggregators, and direct. Group Underwriting Director, Gary Humphreys, will lead the existing management team following completion of the transaction. Kevin Spencer, Group CEO commented “I’m delighted to have received regulatory approval so swiftly. The new business will sit comfortably beside Markerstudy and Zenith, and with this trio, we will provide even greater choice and expertise to our broker partners, old and new. We always enjoy a party, so we’ll be combining our purchase with Chaucer UK Motor’s 50 th  anniversary later this year!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/june/30/markerstudy-acquisition-of-chaucer-uk-motor-business-approved-by-fca https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/june/30/markerstudy-acquisition-of-chaucer-uk-motor-business-approved-by-fca Tue, 30 June 2015 11:48:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/lancaster-insurance-sets-new-guinness-world-records™-title Part of our Retail division, we’re thrilled to announce that Lancaster Insurance is an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title holder following its successful completion of the ‘Largest parade of MGs’. The parade took place on Saturday 11th April at Rockingham Circuit in Corby, Northamptonshire; where 144 MG owners and lovers united to take part in a world first. The idea was dreamed up by marketing and lead to a parade on the Oval Track, the UK’s only banked Oval and Europe’s fastest motor racing circuit, with an array of classic and modern MGs in attendance. An official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS adjudicator oversaw the nail biting attempt, confirming on the day that a new record had been set. Richard Morley, Lancaster Insurance’s Operations Director comments: “We’re immensely proud to have set a brand new GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS™ title with the help of MG enthusiasts from all over the country! This would not have been possible without the support of the MG community. We are thrilled to have created a piece of history as a group.” Watch the video below... https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/lancaster-insurance-sets-new-guinness-world-records™-title https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/lancaster-insurance-sets-new-guinness-world-records™-title Fri, 29 May 2015 09:20:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/markerstudy-predicts-phenomenal-growth-with-new-‘super’-division Never one to rest on our laurels, we have combined forces to create a new affinity division, called Ultimate Insurance Solutions (UIS). Following our acquisition in March of Ultimate Insurance Company, the independent niche personal lines insurer based in Gibraltar, the new division will include Ultimate Pet Partners Limited, the UK administrative arm of the business and pet brands Purely Pets and Paws & Claws. Leading specialist insurance broker and claims administrator, Supercover, also joins the division. Supercover joined the Group in July 2014, and boasts 20 years’ experience in administering gadget and lifestyle insurance programmes, offering value-added benefits and services for its partners. Paul Hampshire has been appointed to the role of UIS Managing Director, tasked with leading the division and the 400 combined workforce. With a strong pedigree, Paul has 35 years’ insurance industry experience, covering most aspects of personal and commercial insurance. In his new role, Paul will be supported by Jacqui Buchanan – Head of Operations, UIS. Martyn Holman, Markerstudy Group Commercial Director, said “We’ve identified that by bringing together these outstanding companies and brands, we are forming a ‘super division’. Not only have we strengthened our existing offering, but the opportunity for growth is phenomenal. The newly formed team possesses knowledge and experience that is second to none.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/markerstudy-predicts-phenomenal-growth-with-new-‘super’-division https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/markerstudy-predicts-phenomenal-growth-with-new-‘super’-division Fri, 29 May 2015 09:15:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/we’ve-made-the-cut! Recognising the best in British insurance, the annual British Insurance Awards at the Royal Albert Hall is an enduring ‘must attend' event in the insurance calendar. Not only do we hope to see you there, we hope you’ll share in our further success! We are elated to have been shortlisted for not one, not two, but three awards: Markerstudy/RDT:   •  The Technology Award Lancaster Insurance:     •  Personal Lines Broking Initiative of the Year   •  Marketing Campaign of the Year As sponsors of the Insurance Broker of the Year – Regional – category, we’re looking forward to a memorable evening. See you on the 8th July! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/we’ve-made-the-cut! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/may/29/we’ve-made-the-cut! Fri, 29 May 2015 09:01:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/30/bibafeverbringing-you-all-the-conferences-top-stories Brace yourselves, we’ve partnered with Insurance Age and POST to bring you all the conference’s top stories and unless you’ve been inoculated, we’re expecting a #BibaFever epidemic! You’ll find a mixture of serious news and fun competitions at the touch of a button using ScribbleLive technology, which will give you a live feed of the best texts, photos, videos and tweets from BIBA. Get involved! Follow @MarkerstudyIns on Twitter for a live update from our stand at BIBA. Don’t forget to use #BIBAFever to see your tweets live on the feed! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/30/bibafeverbringing-you-all-the-conferences-top-stories https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/30/bibafeverbringing-you-all-the-conferences-top-stories Thu, 30 April 2015 16:48:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/28/were-a-fountain-of-excitement-in-the-lead-up-to-biba! With the subtlety of a spade our BIBA 2015 stand will, as usual, be difficult to miss! As you know, our business development team are all heart, but don’t be fooled, with aces high and a drink in hand they will be poised to mesmerise you with our sophisticated business offering, in the hope that you’ll join our ‘club’. Join us on stand C2 to see if we have a winning hand, you’ll be in good company with the ‘Kings’ of our castle...   Kevin Spencer GROUP CEO Gary Humphreys GROUP UNDERWRITING DIRECTOR Martyn Holman GROUP COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR Anthony Foster HEAD OF BROKER PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT Steve Stone HEAD OF PRODUCT Chris Thornton MANAGING DIRECTOR, AUTO WINDSCREENS Paul Hampshire MANAGING DIRECTOR, ULTIMATE INSURANCE SOLUTIONS Russell Bence MANAGING DIRECTOR - RETAIL Mark Pratt HEAD OF GROUP SERVICE AND SUPPLY Paul Copeland GROUP BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Neil Hayden BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Ruth Robinson EXECUTIVE ACCOUNT MANAGER Matt Tozer EXECUTIVE ACCOUNT MANAGER Dan Woods ACCOUNT MANAGER Michael Brigden ACCOUNT MANAGER Andy Cracknell NICHE UNDERWRITING MANAGER David Drury HEAD OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLE Matt Seago HEAD OF NON-STANDARD PRIVATE CAR AND COMMERCIAL VEHICLE  Darren Doughty HEAD OF TAXI Clive Fulcher HEAD OF DEVELOPMENT https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/28/were-a-fountain-of-excitement-in-the-lead-up-to-biba! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/28/were-a-fountain-of-excitement-in-the-lead-up-to-biba! Tue, 28 April 2015 10:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/13/markerstudy-announces-agreement-to-acquire-chaucer’s-uk-motor-business Markerstudy has today announced it has reached an agreement to acquire Chaucer’s UK motor business (including the business written under the Chaucer Direct brand and REIS). The purchase will extend the Group’s GWP to in excess of £900M and swell employee numbers by a further 430. From headquarters in Whitstable, Kent, and a further office in Nottingham, the business to be acquired from Chaucer provides motor, commercial property and liability insurance to over 450,000 customers in the UK – via intermediaries and brokers, aggregators, and direct. Kevin Spencer, Group CEO commented “This acquisition will strengthen our core offering, and complement our strategy for growth and profitability. I am pleased that we were in the fortunate position to be able to reach agreement to acquire the business. It will add significant value, positioning us for further success.” The transaction is expected to complete in the third quarter, subject to regulatory approval. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/13/markerstudy-announces-agreement-to-acquire-chaucer’s-uk-motor-business https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/april/13/markerstudy-announces-agreement-to-acquire-chaucer’s-uk-motor-business Mon, 13 April 2015 15:30:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/24/markerstudy-scoops-‘data-mastery-and-analytics’-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2015 Markerstudy is celebrating its new status as a ‘Celent Model Insurer’, after scooping the ‘Data Mastery and Analytics’ award 2015. The accolade, which rewards excellence in insurance technology was announced at Celent’s Innovation and Insight Day at Carnegie Hall, New York on Monday, 23rd March 2015. Known predominantly for its Markerstudy and Zenith insurance products, The Markerstudy Group of companies also features household name Auto Windscreens, classic car specialist Lancaster Insurance, and gadget insurance expert Supercover within its stable. The winning submission was based on the success of Markerstudy’s Insurer-Hosted Rating Hub, implemented by RDT and its Big Data Insight Project which was built using platforms from SAS and Cloudera. The projects collectively achieved high scores from independent insurance analysts, evaluating quantitative success measures, degree of innovation, technology or integration excellence and best practice. Dan Fiehn, Group Head of IT, said: “We are delighted to have won the Data Mastery and Analytics Award. Working closely with RDT , SAS and Cloudera , we’ve taken significant steps in putting our digital strategy at the forefront of our business and we’re thrilled to have our accomplishments in this arena recognised.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/24/markerstudy-scoops-‘data-mastery-and-analytics’-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2015 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/24/markerstudy-scoops-‘data-mastery-and-analytics’-at-celent-model-insurer-awards-2015 Tue, 24 March 2015 11:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/10/sowing-the-seeds-of-business-growth With the fresh glow of spring on the horizon, our thoughts have turned to cultivating our products to encourage prosperity and growth in our ‘garden of business’. Offering schemes to cover a diverse range of cars from modified, kit and custom builds to military vehicles, we’re always at hand to discuss ideas and new opportunities. New areas of development in our portfolio include schemes for: Classic car including American Kits Modified vehicles Custom build Imports 4x4 green lane Military vehicles Motorhome and campervan Day vans Horsebox 2nd vehicle limited mileage Driving school Vans for SDP. Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Performance for Markerstudy, said “It will come as no surprise that our focus for 2015 will be growing our wide range of schemes and advancing our offering; we‘re always keen to discuss new initiatives and welcome your thoughts. We will also be undertaking a spot of ‘pruning’ to ensure we remain focused on profit, reviewing underperforming business so that we can give maximum support to those helping us achieve our goals.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/10/sowing-the-seeds-of-business-growth https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/10/sowing-the-seeds-of-business-growth Tue, 10 March 2015 16:36:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/graham-partlow-joins-markerstudy-group Graham Partlow has joined Markerstudy Group as Group Contact Centre Manager in Chesterfield following five years as Associate Director at Minster Law. Graham, who began his new role in January 2015, is responsible for all FNOL activity and brings with him a wealth of knowledge following 20 years of experience in large contact centre operations. Previously, Graham managed the Dixons Stores Group Technical Contact Centre which provided sales support to more than 3.5 million customers each year in the UK and Nordics. He joins the Senior Management Team tasked with ensuring telephony SLA’s and conversion KPI’s are achieved for the Group. Mark Pratt, Head of Group Service and Supply for Markerstudy, said: “We are very pleased that Graham has joined us. He is an ambitious individual who is focused on delivering excellent performance and quality results." https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/graham-partlow-joins-markerstudy-group https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/graham-partlow-joins-markerstudy-group Tue, 03 March 2015 17:11:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/‘5-star’-service-with-project-5-star We’re always looking at ways to improve our services, to you and to your customers. This is why we’ve launched Project 5 Star which gives an enhanced focus to improving the customer service offering of Markerstudy and Zenith. When a customer needs to contact us regarding their policy it’s vital that we are giving them the service that they deserve and should expect as standard. This project is in place to review our processes, ensuring that they are fit for purpose and treat all our customers fairly. Striving to improve procedures for the good of our customers is something that we are constantly looking to develop – what this project does is take the analysis of customer feedback to an Executive level so that we can move our improvement initiatives forward at pace. This bright proposal will allow us to evolve as customer expectations evolve, whilst maintaining a high level of employee satisfaction along the way. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/‘5-star’-service-with-project-5-star https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/‘5-star’-service-with-project-5-star Tue, 03 March 2015 17:08:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/viva-la-biba! What do the HMS Victory, a castle, a giant gingerbread cottage, and the Roman Empire have in common? Markerstudy at BIBA of course! Our stands are the stuff of legends, but if you thought we’d be struggling to top last year’s endeavour you’d be mistaken! Once again, we’ll be bringing the fun and ensuring you’re dealt a good hand on our stand where there’ll be an aria, ahem, array of fun and games awaiting the risk takers amongst you. Our high rollers will be bringing a cocktail of niche business and product development, guaranteeing a resounding ‘Encore’! Bring your best poker-face – we’re willing to wager that this year’s BIBA will be the best yet! Still need a clue? Visit Stand C2 where all will be revealed! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/viva-la-biba! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/viva-la-biba! Tue, 03 March 2015 16:45:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/auto-winscreens-continues-its-winning-streak Auto Windscreens’ exceptional level of service and standard of customer care also continues to be recognised by the industry in 2015. In January, the company was voted ‘Best windscreen repair and replacement provider’ by the readers of BusinessCar. Additionally, Auto Windscreens is attending the first ever Modern Claims Awards in April, where it has been shortlisted for three awards: Outstanding Commitment to Training Service Provider of The Year Client Care Award 2014 was a good year for Auto Windscreens, winning two awards respectively at both the BIAs and Derbyshire Times Awards but 2015 promises to be even better – it’s clearly going places! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/auto-winscreens-continues-its-winning-streak https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/auto-winscreens-continues-its-winning-streak Tue, 03 March 2015 16:38:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/‘ding-dong-merrily-on-high’-for-insurance’s-premiere-league The tree and decorations have long been banished for another year, the merriment of Christmas a distant memory… but for those of you who are only just recovering from Markerstudy’s annual bout of pre-Christmas fun at Michelin star flagship eatery, Restaurant Gordon Ramsey - here’s a reminder of the highs and lows. The celebration was hosted by Markerstudy ‘strikers’, Kevin Spencer (Group CEO) and Gary Humphreys (Group Underwriting Director), ‘centre forwards’, Keith Barber (Group Finance Director) and Martyn Holman (Group Commercial Director) with supporting ‘midfielders’ from the business development team. Guests including Ian Donaldson (Autonet Insurance), Carl Shuker (A-Plan), and Lisa Powis (Fresh) gathered for a spot of football on bespoke Markerstudy branded football tables – where the competition was stiff and nerves taut, before being presented with personalised football table figurines, complete with preferred team colours and amusing embellishments. Gary Humphreys commented: “We’re always keen to make an impression with our Christmas celebrations and this year was no exception. Our friends were probably aware that accepting our invite was a bit of an ‘own goal’ but nothing could have prepared them for their ‘uncannily lifelike’ football trophies. We think that this year’s gift really hit ‘the back of the net’!”   Photo Gallery https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/‘ding-dong-merrily-on-high’-for-insurance’s-premiere-league https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/‘ding-dong-merrily-on-high’-for-insurance’s-premiere-league Tue, 03 March 2015 16:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/the-‘force’-behind-our-events We’re all about making your life easier which is why Markerstudy has teamed up with Eventsforce to handle our ever-growing list of hospitality activities in our calendar. This new system provides an instant overview of upcoming events and confirmed attendees, allowing our guests to manage their profile with us and ensure contact details and medical or dietary requirements are up-to-date. All event communications and details are sent directly from Eventsforce to guests, keeping you in the loop before, during and after each event. Lizzie Smith-Foreman, Head of Group Marketing and Communications for Markerstudy, said: “As we grow, so does our hospitality calendar! Eventsforce is new to us, and our guests, so there have been the expected teething problems. But the process is now proving itself to be efficient and flexible in managing our events and the benefits are already clear with greater confidence and convenience to our guests.” If you need to tell us about a change of details, or have any queries on our new events mechanism, please contact your business development manager. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/the-‘force’-behind-our-events https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/the-‘force’-behind-our-events Tue, 03 March 2015 16:17:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/forecast-on-what-we-can-expect-in-2015 Since Markerstudy’s entrance into insurance in 2001, it seems that personal lines has experienced a perpetual cycle of market losses, suffering from over capacity and undisciplined pricing. If rates do harden, it will not be sufficient to return the market to profit. Telematics currently appeals to a few niche segments but as more products come to the market more of us can play a key role in persuading customers of the benefits available. Telematics has to be more than just a price proposition but a concept of enhanced benefits and risk management to gain a wider acceptance. The broker-focused insurers, like us, who have put digital at the heart of their business strategy and invested in their own systems will offer flexibility, speed of change and quote manipulation data to match the direct market. This valuable information will enhance our service to you, offering more precise predictions and saving time and money. By investing in new technology we’re able to react to market changes and create accurate prices as they happen. This alone will create opportunities in cost saving irrespective of what the future holds for all of us. Author, Gary Humphreys https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/forecast-on-what-we-can-expect-in-2015 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/forecast-on-what-we-can-expect-in-2015 Tue, 03 March 2015 15:43:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/markerstudy-complete-purchase-of-ultimate We are delighted to announce that approval has been granted by the Financial Services Commission (Gibraltar) and Financial Conduct Authority (UK) for our acquisition of Ultimate Insurance Company, the independent niche personal lines insurer based in Gibraltar, and Ultimate Pet Partners Limited, the UK administrative arm of the business. The completion of this deal adds in excess of £30m GWP and affords us a hugely exciting opportunity, with specialist underwriting capability to the intermediary market and a direct route to market of numerous products, including the Purely Pets Insurance brand. The Ultimate Insurance Company operation will be overseen by Gary Humphreys, Markerstudy Group Underwriting Director, whilst Ultimate Pet Partners Limited will join the Markerstudy retail division, headed by Managing Director, Russell Bence. Russell said “I am delighted that Brian Lambert and Paul Hampshire are joining us. Originally from the BDML stable, and coincidentally already ‘at home’ in the Connect Centre, Portsmouth, we welcome them to the group. With our existing credentials and enormous expertise in the pet arena, this acquisition will create one of the largest and most dynamic pet facilities”. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/markerstudy-complete-purchase-of-ultimate https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/markerstudy-complete-purchase-of-ultimate Tue, 03 March 2015 12:16:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/markerstudy-has-the-‘winning-formula’-as-11th-‘best-company-to-work-for’-in-britain Unreservedly modest, you’ll normally find us hiding our light under a bushel, ahem, so you’ll have to excuse us for basking in our own glory for a moment. After demonstrating unfaltering strength in the face of tough competition, we are celebrating our third year of success at The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For Awards, maintaining the position of 11th ‘Best Company to Work For’ in Britain. Following a glittering awards ceremony at Battersea Evolution on Thursday 26th February, we managed a Best Companies ‘hat trick’, beating off stiff opposition and making it into the top 20 for the third year running with ‘Extraordinary’ status, three stars (the highest) and glowing statistics to match. Guests attending included Phil Bunker (LV), Brendan Devine (Sure Thing!), Ian Donaldson (Autonet) and Mike Lee (Hastings Direct). Surveys conducted as part of the awards found 87% of our staff said they were excited about where our company is heading, taking it to 3rd place overall and 82% of employees said that the company has a plan that they can commit to (top ten score). Furthermore the company was ranked 5th for wellbeing with 82% of staff saying that they love working for Markerstudy and 85% citing Kevin Spencer, Group CEO, as an inspiration (6th place for most inspiring leaders). Tanya Gerrard-White, Director of HR and Talent Development commented: “To once again be 11th ‘Best Company to Work For’ in Britain is a dream come true for Markerstudy. We’re passionate about maintaining our culture, and rewarding and recognising our staff and we’re thrilled that this ‘winning formula’ has been acknowledged by Best Companies and our employees themselves.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/markerstudy-has-the-‘winning-formula’-as-11th-‘best-company-to-work-for’-in-britain https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/march/03/markerstudy-has-the-‘winning-formula’-as-11th-‘best-company-to-work-for’-in-britain Tue, 03 March 2015 11:16:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/january/22/how-do-we-embrace-the-‘fun’-in-the-fundamental As those of you who have visited BIBA, and Broker Expo, or are regular receivers of our e-newsletter ‘The Loop-e’, will know, we enjoy finding fun in the industry that we love and rarely shy away from seeking new and inventive ways to amuse ourselves and you. Yes, we deal with serious issues, however, as a sector generally considered ‘dull’, we are battling a number of unfair stereotypes; that insurers and brokers can display a sense of humour clearly doesn’t translate comfortably to the outside world. Our recent skills survey with the CII found that less than a fifth of students questioned (18%) would consider a career in insurance. We know that we’re at the centre of an exciting industry, offering an abundance of prospects for men and women alike, so how do we shake off this reputation and ensure that young ‘bright sparks’ are enticed into the profession? At Markerstudy, we place a large emphasis on ‘putting the fun into insurance’. This is at the centre of our branding and company ethos, and something that we put a great deal of thought and investment into. From building a giant gingerbread cottage to re-creating the Roman Empire, we’re constantly challenging ‘the norm’ and always thinking of ways to embrace this message. Not only does it set us apart but it ensures that we recruit and retain happy and driven employees who give us their best. We were recently awarded three stars for the third year running as an ‘Extraordinary’ company to work for and named 11th in the Sunday Times 100 Best Companies poll in 2014. We offer great benefits, training and support but it is heartening to know that a significant proportion of this placement was based on employee satisfaction. All major companies offer similar benefits but it is our ability to let our people make a real difference and influence our business that sets us apart. For us, this is vital, not only for our own personal morale and that of our staff, but for the business as a whole. We work in a diverse, dynamic and exciting industry and it’s frustrating to see recruitment of talent blighted by an old-fashioned image. Many of you will have received our ‘Markerstudy Rhapsody’ Christmas card this year. Though your ears may still be ringing at the sound of our ‘harmonious’ rendition, I hope that you enjoyed our atypical offering! Perhaps we’ll be able to ‘re-brand’ insurance so that it’s the career of choice? In the meantime, alongside the fundamental, we’ll keep embracing the fun. Author, Gary Humphreys https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/january/22/how-do-we-embrace-the-‘fun’-in-the-fundamental https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2015/january/22/how-do-we-embrace-the-‘fun’-in-the-fundamental Thu, 22 January 2015 15:43:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/december/01/galileo,-galileo-figaro-the-making-of-‘markerstudy-rhapsody’! On Thursday 23rd October, the Silk Studio in London’s Soho witnessed the debut of Markerstudy’s newest musical sensation, ‘Hark-erstudy’! Martyn Holman (Group Commercial Director), Anthony Foster (Head of Broker Performance), Paul Copeland (Group Business Development Manager), and Matt Tozer (Executive Account Manager) formed a quartet of magnificoo-o-o… errr… talent, gathering together in the common goal of bringing you the best Christmas card to date. As boy-bands go, they were more ‘loss of direction’ than ‘One Direction’ to start with, but, vocally challenged or not, they showed their dedication to the Markerstudy ethos of ‘Putting fun into Insurance’! After the initial shock of Paul’s falsetto had worn off, and with the firm control of the studio director, a strangely pleasing rendition of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody was achieved. For those eager to hear this wonderful cover again – go to www.markerstudy.com/bohemian-rhapsody . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/december/01/galileo,-galileo-figaro-the-making-of-‘markerstudy-rhapsody’! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/december/01/galileo,-galileo-figaro-the-making-of-‘markerstudy-rhapsody’! Mon, 01 December 2014 08:40:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/24/will-the-fca’s-consultation-on-social-media-usage-change-the-way-we-communicate-online The FCA opened up a consultation , which ended on 6th November 2014, to create a new regulatory framework around the financial sector’s use of social media for promotions. The uncertainty around what is deemed ‘acceptable’ for communication on social sites has forced the FCA to review and possibly consolidate guidelines. How social media will be regulated in the future is still up for debate. However, the FCA is right to welcome public feedback. Social sites such as Facebook and Twitter are now very much a mainstream communication tool between insurers and consumers and these new measures are designed to ensure that, going forward, content is fair, clear and not misleading. Naturally this poses the question, ‘what can be interpreted as misleading?’ The use of non-branded micro-sites throws a question mark into the mix. Could a social site maintained by an insurer, but without any recognisable branding, be perceived as misleading? As I have my own Twitter account ( @garyhdb9 ), should my posts be regulated? It would be wrong to pull the strings too tight and remove scope for creativity and innovation – we’re about putting the fun into insurance after all! Markerstudy use social channels to speak to brokers, partners and consumers about new and existing products but we accept that there is a need for judgement and common sense about how we communicate our messages online. The potential for our material to land in front of unintended recipients through retweets and sharing must be considered by our digital teams before promotions are marketed. The fast growth of social media ensures that new and exciting ways of communicating will keep emerging as potential tools for marketing. In the ever-changing digital world it’s inevitable that regulation will continue to evolve too, so it’s up to insurers to regulate their own channels to protect the customer and themselves. You can see all responses submitted to the FCA consultation online by searching #smfca on Twitter. Did you respond to the FCA during their consultation period? How would you like regulations around social media and the financial sector to shape in 2015? Author, Gary Humphreys https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/24/will-the-fca’s-consultation-on-social-media-usage-change-the-way-we-communicate-online https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/24/will-the-fca’s-consultation-on-social-media-usage-change-the-way-we-communicate-online Mon, 24 November 2014 09:42:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/21/mobilers-offers-festive-cheer-with-new-scheme Mobilers is pleased to announce that it’s extending its Liability Scheme, offering  dedicated policies to market traders, with complete cover during the festive season, including UK Christmas markets. Policies are available from as little as one day to up to a year and premiums start from just £30. In addition, the scheme includes cover for non-catering activities such as arts, crafts, cards, clothes and more. Mobilers also offers a Commercial Combined Policy which includes cover for loss of stock, business interruption, money and goods in transit. Competitive premiums for ice cream vans and hot food vehicles benefit from the option of laid-up cover for clients who wish to close their business during the winter months and the Mobile Trailer Scheme now extends to permanently sited trailers and portacabins including cafés. For further information please don’t hesitate to contact Vicky Farmer , Broker Support Manager for Mobilers on 0844 557 4233. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/21/mobilers-offers-festive-cheer-with-new-scheme https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/21/mobilers-offers-festive-cheer-with-new-scheme Fri, 21 November 2014 16:46:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/17/markerstudy-group-introduce-‘products-with-polish’-at-broker-expo-north Markerstudy Group ‘went the extra mile’ at this year’s Broker Expo North where Business Development team members, Paul Copeland, Neil Hayden and Matt Tozer, alongside Bernie Nunn from Supercover and Natalie Higginson from Zenith Insurance’s Underwriting department, were seen ‘clowning around’ in an array of outrageous footwear. With scheduled footwear changes which ranged from animal slippers to glitter encrusted ‘70s platforms, they introduced a host of new products on the Markerstudy stand. Zenith Distinction IHR, which offers Insurer Hosted Rating, Brightbox, the UK’s first mileage-based broker specific telematics policy and mobile phone/gadget insurance brand, Supercover, widened the group’s ‘footprint’ and offered brokers the ‘perfect fit’ for their business. The ‘walk in your shoes’ themed stand also offered free stress balls and travel shoe polish along with a chance to win £500 worth of Selfridges vouchers for the brokers with the fastest times on its BATAK Wall.  Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director, said: “It wouldn’t be a Markerstudy stand without ‘shoehorning’ in a bit of extra fun. Well done to Chris Jolly from Autonet and Chloe Needham from Lifestyle Insurance Brokers who were victorious in the BATAK challenge!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/17/markerstudy-group-introduce-‘products-with-polish’-at-broker-expo-north https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/17/markerstudy-group-introduce-‘products-with-polish’-at-broker-expo-north Mon, 17 November 2014 16:33:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/05/fore!-markerstudy-‘putts’-be-wiser-to-the-post-at-simpson-cup-charity-golf-tournament Markerstudy Group and Be Wiser Insurance ‘clubbed together’, bidding £20,000 at a charity auction to compete in The Simpson Cup, a golfing tournament in aid of the On Course Foundation which encourages disabled ex-servicemen to take up golf. The companies invited the cream of the insurance crop to travel with them to Washington DC to take part in the Ryder Cup-style charity challenge, each covering the costs of their own flights in their bid for glory. ‘Team Markerstudy’, led by Martyn Holman, Group Commercial Director for Markerstudy Group and Paul Copeland, Group Business Development Manager, included Gary Eggleton (Connected Media), Ian Donaldson (Autonet), Leighton Wilcox (Insurance Collections Bureau Ltd), Allan Hunter (Midas Underwriting), Stephen Duffy (Ashgrove Insurance) and Brendan Devine (Sure Thing). They battled Be Wiser’s finest, led by Mark Bower-Dyke, Nigel Taylor and Glyn Evans, along with Mark Cliff (Ageas), Phil Bunker (LV), Douglas Young (Canopius), Darren Taylor (Flint & Co) and Mark O'Shaugnessey (Crusader). The main event began on the 5th October at the prestigious Congressional Golf Club where ex-servicemen from the UK and USA competed in the official tournament. Over the next three days the insurers took part in an array of scheduled events where talk soon turned to handicaps, drivers and ‘putting’ against each other. Highs (a hole in one), lows (balls in the water) and triumphant and abysmal performances ensued in equal measure but in the end there could only be one winner with Markerstudy clinching the overall lead. Needless to say, Be Wiser were a bit ‘teed off’ over the final result but both teams came together for a final celebratory meal and drinks, complete with commiseration speeches and victorious banter before heading home to ‘Blighty’. Martyn Holman, said: “The On Course Foundation is an incredible charity supporting disabled ex-Servicemen in order to help restore self-confidence and a sense of purpose after injury. We’re very proud to have supported The Simpson Cup in aid of the Foundation and hope to make this a regular partnership with Be Wiser Insurance to ensure that the great work of the charity continues. Thanks must go to all our broker and insurer partners who took part and were great sports, I think that it’s safe to say that both teams thoroughly enjoyed the trip.” For more information about The Simpson Cup and On Course Foundation please click here . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/05/fore!-markerstudy-‘putts’-be-wiser-to-the-post-at-simpson-cup-charity-golf-tournament https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/november/05/fore!-markerstudy-‘putts’-be-wiser-to-the-post-at-simpson-cup-charity-golf-tournament Wed, 05 November 2014 16:19:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/put-your-feet-up-at-champneys You and a friend can put your feet up at one of four luxury health resorts. The package includes use of the impressive spa facilities, including a swimming pool, tennis courts, sauna, fully-equipped gym, steam room and whirlpool, plus a blissful 25 minute treatment and a three course lunch each. To be in with a chance to win this revitalising prize, put your best foot forward and answer the question below: Which Zenith Insurance product benefits from IHR? a) Zenith Distinction IHR b) Zenith Direct c) Zenith Pet Email your answer to digital@markerstudy.com before 5pm, Monday 10th November. View the competition terms and conditions. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/put-your-feet-up-at-champneys https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/put-your-feet-up-at-champneys Mon, 03 November 2014 10:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/zenith-launches-brightbox Zenith has become the first insurer in the UK to launch a broker specific telematics policy, supported by Wunelli. The mileage-based Brightbox policy is being piloted by The Insurance Factory and a number of other brokers before a phased full roll-out in the final quarter of 2014. Brightbox policies offer motorists the ability to buy cover based on the number of miles they anticipate driving and are targeted at those with low mileages and young, inexperienced drivers with a low no claims discount. Wunelli will manage the installation of telematics devices in policyholder’s vehicles, collect and score driving behaviour data and mileage and feed back to the driver and broker via a customer dashboard and administration portal. Wunelli has also developed and delivered a claims portal which includes a journey viewer and incident alerts to assist claims handling. For more information about Brightbox, contact Clive Fulcher,  cfulcher@markerstudy.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/zenith-launches-brightbox https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/zenith-launches-brightbox Wed, 17 September 2014 09:19:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/were-now-offering-supercover It was business as usual for Markerstudy over the summer, with the acquisition of specialist insurance broker and claims administrator, Supercover, in a deal worth over £20m. The FCA regulated business, a market-leader in its field, joins Markerstudy’s burgeoning Retail arm. Supercover was established in 1995 to provide extended warranty and insurance to the customers of mobile phone retailers. Over the last 20 years, its business model has expanded to encompass a wider range of specialist insurance products, covering most portable electronic devices and gadgets. It now services more than 1.5m policyholders via 200 channel partners, across several industries from its base in North West London. As a group, we were particularly attracted to the growth opportunities and scalable business platform offered by Supercover, as well as the hugely exciting prospect of incorporating its superior products into our already diverse range of broker offerings. For more information about Supercover, visit  www.supercoverinsurance.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/were-now-offering-supercover https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/were-now-offering-supercover Wed, 17 September 2014 09:18:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/getting-to-know-anthony-foster Anthony Foster, our new Head of Broker Performance Management, joined the group in July from Aviva where he spent seven years in a range of broker development roles. Anthony cites the best thing about working for Markerstudy as ‘the people and culture’, and describes his first few months as ‘very energising’, as the group continues to diversify and grow its broker offering. When asked about Markerstudy’s business development team, he indicates its broker relationships are strong and progressive and the team has great levels of experience and in-depth knowledge. He adds he’s ‘looking forward to getting out and about in the market during the next six months to meet more of our valued broker partners’. Anthony has worked in a variety of industries in his home nation of South Africa and in the UK with business development being the common thread  throughout his career. He told us: ”The UK insurance industry is fulfilling. It’s a mature, competitive market that remains quite fragmented, providing a constantly evolving and always challenging environment” Anthony moved to the UK in 1997 with his wife to continue his career and see more of the world, as well as to ‘watch some decent rugby and cricket’! After both settling into good jobs in London and buying a flat in Twickenham, they started a family and now live ‘in the tropic of Hertfordshire’ with their two boys. He does, however, admit to missing family and old friends in South Africa, year-round sunshine and inexpensive beer! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/getting-to-know-anthony-foster https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/getting-to-know-anthony-foster Wed, 17 September 2014 09:17:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/customer-focus-at-heart-of-double-win-success-for-auto-windscreens Customer service excellence is at the very heart of all Auto Windscreens’ operations and the company was delighted to win both the Customer Care Award and the Service Provide of the Year title at the recent British Insurance Awards. The best in customer service: Net Promoter Score: 86 (conducted at point of sale). Most recommended: 95% of customers would recommend us. Top for satisfaction: 96% of our customers say they are satisfied with our service. We consistently receive 4.7 out of 5 on Review Centre and hold first place for ‘Car Service and Repairs’.  The UK business, which conducts the majority of its glass repairs and replacements on behalf of insurers and brokers, recognises the need to put customers at the forefront and create that all important seamless journey, from the moment damage is reported to work completion. Commenting on the win, Auto Windscreens’ Managing Director, Chris Thornton, said: "These awards are fantastic recognition of our entire team's efforts to continually deliver an exceptional service to both our insurance and broker partners and their policyholders. We are extremely proud to have won, and providing such a high standard of service means our corporate partners can feel reassured that their policyholders are in safe hands when it comes to glass claims." Auto Windscreens has invested heavily in technology and its staff to create an efficient customer service journey and closely monitors feedback on an ongoing basis to maintain a consistently exceptional windscreen repair and replacement solution. Every policyholder is asked to complete a survey on their overall experience and Net Promoter Scores (NPS) form a vital part of the ‘listening' process, gauging the loyalty of customers by asking them how likely they are to recommend Auto Windscreens. Chris added: "The insurance market is increasingly recognising the importance of suppliers using this method and for the last three years we have maintained impressive results, with 88%  of our customers being classed as ‘promoters' of our service.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/customer-focus-at-heart-of-double-win-success-for-auto-windscreens https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/customer-focus-at-heart-of-double-win-success-for-auto-windscreens Wed, 17 September 2014 09:17:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/and-in-other-news On the shortlist Markerstudy is very proud to have been shortlisted for The Insurance Fraud Awards in the Combatting Fraud - Technology Initiative of the Year category for our SIRA Scorecard system. The winner will be announced at The Brewery, London on 2nd October. Gadget Cover, a brand of one of our newest acquisitions, Supercover, has also been attracting attention, having been nominated for the What Mobile Awards in the Best Insurance Provider category. Results will be shared via social media on 6th November. Wish us luck!   Going for Bespoke... Did you know our underwriters are able to assist you when looking to place business under the Zenith brand? For a number of years, Markerstudy’s Bespoke/ Referral Team have been providing broker partners with expertise and knowledge to compliment our screen driven products, but with the forthcoming launch of Zenith Distinction, we’ll soon be able to provide tailor-made quotes too. If you haven’t currently got access to the Bespoke/ Referral Team, or would like to know more, email BusinessDevelopment@markerstudy.com .   Welcoming Matt back home! We are pleased to welcome Matt Tozer, a popular former member of Markerstudy’s Business Development team, back into the fold. He rejoined the business last month following roles at the A&A Group and iGO4. As Executive Account Manager, Matt will oversee the business development of a portfolio of large and high potential broker accounts. With the desirable combination of broker and insurer experience and the obvious advantage of already knowing Markerstudy, he’s once again, an excellent addition to our team! To contact Matt, email mtozer@markerstudy.com or call 07468 701279. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/and-in-other-news https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/and-in-other-news Wed, 17 September 2014 09:03:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/a-product-with-distinction We’ll soon be launching a new private car product, headed up by Matt Seago (pictured), Zenith Distinction IHR. We’ve used our years of experience and knowledge in the non-standard market to develop a larger, more diverse offering under the Zenith brand. Zenith Distinction IHR will add even more diversity to our existing product range, allowing us to target areas with very specific boundaries at the click of a button. It’s been built in-house, on our own internal rating system meaning we no longer have to abide by software house lead times. Any changes we make to our underwriting or rating will be available to brokers within just a few days, or even a matter of minutes, if needed. It also means we can offer pre-inception validation measures to help fight against quote manipulation and fraud. These should see a reduction in cancellations, an increase in our overall product competiveness, and a higher level of conversion for our broker partners. Zenith Distinction IHR will return rates on both Comprehensive and Third Party Fire and Theft. While looking to attract the high value/ grouped vehicles, there will be also be a mid net worth offering and the new product will cater for those with a history of claims or convictions. For more information about Zenith Distinction, please contact the business development team via  BusinessDevelopment@markerstudy.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/a-product-with-distinction https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/17/a-product-with-distinction Wed, 17 September 2014 09:01:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/11/en-route-to-a-driverless-future The Government recently announced driverless cars will be allowed to be tested on our roads from as early as this coming January. It’s a move which has prompted lots of speculation and has posed some important questions, many for the insurance industry. Driverless cars are likely to be popular in congested cities for economic and environmental reasons. However, one of the fundamental reasons the motor manufacturing industry is so diverse and exciting is because it is fuelled by the basic human desire for independence and travel. I’d question whether the idea will be accepted by many, who enjoy driving themselves from A to B . Significant legislative changes will be required to cater for the new technology. There’s firstly the issue of liability - we may see cars being insured rather than the driver, but this isn’t a new idea – just look at ‘any driver’ policies, and you’ll see it’s the vehicle that’s covered. We also need to ask how those under the influence of alcohol or sleeping ‘at the wheel’ would be treated in a driverless car in the event of an accident? Being capable of being ‘in control’ of a vehicle is a basic requirement of road safety, and this is unlikely to change. Situations involving a driverless car and a standard car would still be resolved through the driver’s insurance in each case. However, I can envisage a scenario where a driverless car owner may take issue with the manufacturer in the event of an avoidable incident. It's too early to say whether driverless cars of the future will be cheaper to insure, as we have no hard evidence to suggest the technology is absolutely fool-proof. As long as humans are in the driving seat, there is always risk, regardless of whether they take the wheel or not. So, we may be en-route to a driverless future, but insurance is likely to still be very much a part of the journey. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/11/en-route-to-a-driverless-future https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/11/en-route-to-a-driverless-future Thu, 11 September 2014 08:30:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/08/matt-tozer-rejoins-markerstudy-team Matt Tozer, a popular former member of Markerstudy’s Business Development team, rejoined the business on 26 th  August following roles at the A&A Group and iGO4. As Executive Account Manager, Matt returns to Markerstudy Group, named 11 th  in The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For list, to oversee the business development of a portfolio of large and high potential broker accounts. Anthony Foster, Head of Broker Performance Management, commented: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Matt back into the fold. He has the desirable combination of broker and insurer experience and has the obvious advantage of knowing Markerstudy well after his initial very successful term here. It's another positive step forward in the evolution of the broker management team.” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/08/matt-tozer-rejoins-markerstudy-team https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/september/08/matt-tozer-rejoins-markerstudy-team Mon, 08 September 2014 16:28:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/august/29/markerstudy-directors-‘chill-out’-for-charity First to step up was Lancaster Insurance’s Operations Director, Rich Morley, who bravely took on the ‘ALS ice bucket challenge’ on the 26th August, pledging £250 to the Motor Neurone Disease Association for research into ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a form of motor neurone disease). He went on to nominate Richard Monk from the MG Owners Club, Ross Barrington from BDML and Robert Balls from insurance ‘rival’ Adrian Flux. If completed within 48 hours, Lancaster Insurance have pledged to double its donation. Martyn Holman, Group Operations Director (pictured) also got involved, raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support. He nominated Mark Cliff from Ageas, Andrew Jackson from Brightside and Ian Donaldson from Autonet, who has already taken up the challenge. And, never one to shirk a challenge, Gary Humphreys, Group Underwriting Director, took a soaking for ALS, nominating Richard Harrison from Blink. Afterwards, both Gary and Rich simply commented: “Ooh, that’s cold!” https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/august/29/markerstudy-directors-‘chill-out’-for-charity https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/august/29/markerstudy-directors-‘chill-out’-for-charity Fri, 29 August 2014 12:12:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/july/28/markerstudy-confirms-purchase-of-market-leading-supercover-insurance Supercover, the specialist insurance broker and claims administrator, has joined the burgeoning Retail arm of the Markerstudy  portfolio of businesses in a deal worth over £20m. The FCA regulated business was established in 1995 to provide extended warranty and insurance to the customers of mobile phone retailers. Over the last 20 years, Supercover’s business model has expanded to encompass a wider range of specialist insurance products, covering most portable electronic devices and gadgets. It now services more than 1.5m policyholders via 200 channel partners, across a diversity of industries from its base in North West London. Russell Bence, Head of Markerstudy Retail said: "Our Retail division is growing exponentially and we are constantly looking for ways to strengthen our offering. We were particularly attracted to the growth opportunities and scalable business platform offered by Supercover, a market-leader in its field. With our support, the Supercover story of success will continue. To incorporate this superior product into our existing array of customer benefits presents a hugely exciting proposition.” For more information about Markerstudy, visit  www.markerstudy.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/july/28/markerstudy-confirms-purchase-of-market-leading-supercover-insurance https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/july/28/markerstudy-confirms-purchase-of-market-leading-supercover-insurance Mon, 28 July 2014 12:00:00 1540 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/seeing-clearly-through-the-smoke-and-mirrors Gary Humphreys puts car insurance fraud under the microscope. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI) the number of fraudulent car insurance claims rose by 34% to 59,900 last year. ‘Crash for cash’ and more recent ‘flash for clash’ scams (when a driver flashes their lights to let someone in front pass them, only to deliberately drive into the rear of their car) have become ‘copycat crimes’ and a real issue for insurers. Stories of these incidents are being covered widely in the media, meaning the public are becoming more aware of unscrupulous drivers around them, which can only be a good thing. Markerstudy, like the industry as a whole, is working hard to reduce fraud by employing highly trained teams and investing in specialist systems and processes, but there’s always more that can be done. Quite simply, insurers need to work together to share as much information as possible, while being mindful of Data Protection Act restrictions, of course. The new Government initiative, My Licence, which will allow insurers to check individual driving records online, as well as Experian’s No Claims Discount database, are measures which will help identify dishonest drivers from the outset. So called ‘ghost brokers’, who operate through websites or adverts offering cheap insurance, are leaving thousands of innocent motorists uninsured, and are another issue we’re all faced with. Instances are reducing, however, as there are now online checks designed to flush them out. Unfortunately criminals will always find new ways to commit fraud so both the industry and the public must continue to be vigilant. I hope 2013 represented a ‘peak’ and think the combination of raised public awareness, insurer initiatives and work undertaken by The Insurance Fraud Bureau and The Insurance Fraud Department in identifying fraud rings will have a hugely positive impact in the future. Author, Gary Humphreys https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/seeing-clearly-through-the-smoke-and-mirrors https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/seeing-clearly-through-the-smoke-and-mirrors Tue, 24 June 2014 15:55:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/getting-to-know-you-–-claims-smt Some you may know, some you may not...we’d like to introduce you to our Claims Senior Management Team, and in particular to our two newest recruits – Nick Hilton and Kelly Atfield. Nick heads up our Third Party Claims unit, while Kelly is our Specialist First Party Manager. Both bring with them a wealth of experience and fresh ideas from their previous roles. Find out more about them and some more familiar faces: Name: Steve Cross Job Title: Group Head of Claims Background / Experience: I have more than 22 years’ industry experience and joined Markerstudy Group nearly seven years ago. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? What surprised me (pleasantly, may I add!) was the freedom and empowerment given to people to make things happen. This has been and remains a key asset which has enabled Markerstudy to remain nimble and stay ahead of the competition! This is particularly relevant in claims function, where we continually strive to improve all aspects of our performance, focusing on what’s important to the Markerstudy Group. Phrases like ‘resting on our laurels’ and ‘just follow the rest of the market’ just do not appear in our claims manual!   N ame: Steve Barrigan Job Title: Group Claims Operations Manager Background / Experience: I have 30 years’ motor claims experience, encompassing both technical and operational roles. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? The speed of growth, which is due to a variety of factors, not least that Markerstudy is a very agile business with positive, energetic staff who are encouraged to challenge the status quo and find innovative solutions to modern day insurance problems.   Name: Nick Hilton Job Title: Third Party Claims Manager Background / Experience: I have been working in insurance claims since 1993 for a number of general insurers. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? I probably shouldn’t have been surprised, seeing as we were named 11th in The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work For list 2014, but the level of commitment, passion and enthusiasm staff have for the for the company is amazing. It really is a great place to work. Name: Kelly Attfield Job Title: Specialist First Party Manager Background / Experience: For the last 15 years I worked at Direct Line Group and more recently as a Relationship Manager for Claims. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? I like the way everyone works together. There is also a clear focus on wanting to do the best for staff, whilst focusing on delivering an excellent service to customers. Name: Amie Berman Job Title: Customer Service Manager Background / Experience: I have worked in insurance since I was 21 and joined Markerstudy in 2008, where I’ve worked in a number of roles. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? Looking back and remembering only a handful of people in a small office in 2008 and seeing what Markerstudy has achieved since then is amazing. Name: Kevin Haywood Job Title: Claims Manager – Standard Risks Background / Experience: I have been with Markerstudy for four years and previously spent more than 20 years with Aviva. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? I’ve been surprised about the speed in which change happens at Markerstudy and also how interested the company are in new ideas from all members of staff. Name: Danny Taylor Job Title: Intervention and Credit Hire Manager Background / Experience: I joined Zenith in 1998, and moved to 1st Central in 2010, before re-joining Markerstudy in 2010. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? I’ve been surprised at the speed of change and our desire to ensure we are market leaders and not followers! Name: Allan Peak Job Title: Counter Fraud Manager Background / Experience: I have 24 years’ third party claims experience, the last 16 of which have been in specialist counter fraud roles. What has surprised you most about working at Markerstudy? I’ve been surprised by the speed at which the company moves and make decisions. Its courage to buck the trend by not following the market if it isn’t in the group’s best interest is impressive. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/getting-to-know-you-–-claims-smt https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/getting-to-know-you-–-claims-smt Thu, 05 June 2014 16:50:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/lucky-david-from-lionheart-wins-our-biba-selfie-competition! It’s no surprise that visitors to the Markerstudy stand were inspired to take to Twitter, but one man in particular caught our beady social media eye. David Wilkes from Lionheart Insurance Services tweeted us  throughout the day on May 14, taking a great selfie with ‘Gladiator’ and Business Development Manager, Shaun Beeston and posting photos of himself with his sword and helmet, which also made it to his office. David is being rewarded for his efforts with a £300 Red Letter Days voucher to spend on an experience of his choice. Congratulations, David! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/lucky-david-from-lionheart-wins-our-biba-selfie-competition! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/lucky-david-from-lionheart-wins-our-biba-selfie-competition! Thu, 05 June 2014 16:37:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/markerstudy-conquers-biba! We came...we saw...we conquered at BIBA 2014! Our 20ft high ‘Rise of the Empire’ creation amazed the crowds and wowed judges, meaning our gladiators and emperor marched off with the coveted 2014 ‘Best Large Stand’ trophy! View our BIBA film below to see all the fun! Our ‘temple’ featured columns embellished with gold and topped with prancing white horses, authentic 'friezes' depicting Markerstudy directors, and a ‘selfie column’ encouraging visitors to upload their photos to Twitter. The stand brought a bygone era and technology together, as business development managers dressed as Romans ‘held forum’ with guests, guiding them through the company’s new website on touchscreens, while gifts of branded toy shields, helmets and swords were given out. https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/markerstudy-conquers-biba! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/june/05/markerstudy-conquers-biba! Thu, 05 June 2014 14:49:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/22/markerstudy-expands-business-development Anthony Foster will be joining Markerstudy Group on Monday 7 th  July in the role of Head of Broker Performance Management. Anthony has a wealth of relationship management and development experience, most recently with AVIVA in a similar role, and previously in the position of Strategic Account Manager.  Prior to AVIVA, Anthony gained a Masters in Business Administration, and has held a number of senior management positions in the UK and his home country of South Africa. With responsibility for the Group Business Development teams, Anthony will oversee the trading relationships with personal lines brokers, whilst exploring new opportunities. Anthony will report to Group Underwriting Director, Gary Humphreys, who commented: “I am delighted to welcome Anthony to the Group. At this time of great opportunity, it is vital for us to keep pace with the needs of our brokers and intermediary partners. We’ve expanded our agency and development teams to ensure we are giving the best service and attention, and Anthony’s appointment cements this objective.” For more information about Markerstudy Group, visit  www.markerstudygroup.com . https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/22/markerstudy-expands-business-development https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/22/markerstudy-expands-business-development Thu, 22 May 2014 11:57:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/07/we’re-seeking-the-best-selfie! To help us find the best BIBA selfie, we’ll be asking you to take a photo of yourself next to the ‘#MSGSelfie’ column on our stand. Simply upload it to Twitter with the hashtag to be in with a chance of winning a very special prize! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/07/we’re-seeking-the-best-selfie! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/07/we’re-seeking-the-best-selfie! Wed, 07 May 2014 15:14:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/07/guess-our-biba-theme! We’ve had a galleon, a castle and a gingerbread cottage – so, what will it be for 2014?! Email us and tell us what you think. We guarantee you’ll be dazzled by the sheer scale and elegance of our stand. It’s a feat of engineering and we’re sure all our visitors will be ‘wreathed’ in smiles. There will be the usual ‘horse-play’ and our business development team will be ready to hold ‘forum’ with you, so don’t be a persona non grata – join us on Stand C2! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/07/guess-our-biba-theme! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/may/07/guess-our-biba-theme! Wed, 07 May 2014 15:09:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/march/05/our-shout,-your-shout Our Group Underwriting Director, Gary Humphreys, recently commented on the hot topic of vehicle technology in the 6th February issue of Post magazine. Here’s what he thinks – do you agree? Let us know by dropping your comments below. We’ll include the best responses in our next issue. Go on, it’s your chance to have your say! “Devices like collision alarms and blind spot warning systems can only be a good thing, but since they’re still in their infancy, they tend to be restricted to top-end vehicles. Until the manufacturers are able to roll these out to a wider range of vehicles, their impact will be negligible. “Lenses handed out to foreign truck drivers by the Highways Agency to help them see motorists in their wing mirrors have had a positive impact, which suggest blind spot warning systems could be the permanent answer here – and should be compulsory in left hand drive lorries. Any device that helps a driver avoid an accident can only be a good thing.” To read the full article, visit:  http://www.postonline.co.uk/post/analysis/2325527/vehicle-technology-end-of-the-driver  (please note you will require a subscription to Post magazine). https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/march/05/our-shout,-your-shout https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/march/05/our-shout,-your-shout Wed, 05 March 2014 14:20:00 https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/march/03/we’re-the-11th-best-company-to-work-for! Markerstudy Group has been named an ‘Extraordinary company to work for’ by Best Companies for the second year running and listed 11th in the ‘The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work for List’ 2014! We have been given ‘three stars’, the highest achievement possible, and found out we had improved upon last year’s 18th position during the glittering Awards ceremony on Thursday 27th February. Markerstudy Insurance has also recently been presented with the coveted Investors in People (IIP) Gold and a Health and Wellbeing award after its first assessment. It’s among only 3% of 36,000 companies in 55 countries with the IIP standard that have been awarded Gold status. Suffice to say, we’re very proud of our latest achievements! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/march/03/we’re-the-11th-best-company-to-work-for! https://www.markerstudy.com/brokers/news/2014/march/03/we’re-the-11th-best-company-to-work-for! Mon, 03 March 2014 14:16:00