Three more intermediaries have chosen protection comparison service UnderwriteMe following an initial launch with the UK’s largest independent protection advice firm.
Assured Futures, Tuto and Future Proof have signed up to use the UnderwriteMe comparison service, which allows intermediaries to compare “buy now” and estimated prices and complete applications using one easy process, without ever leaving the UnderwriteMe site.
Last year advice firm LifeSearch was announced as one of the first to use UnderwriteMe.
According to Phil Jeynes, head of sales and marketing for UnderwriteMe, the site allows advisers to see the impact of underwriting from all partner insurers on premiums, on one simple comparison screen in real time.
Mr Jeynes said: “The UnderwriteMe Comparison Service has successfully demonstrated its effectiveness in simplifying the old, fractured protection sales journey for both consumers and advisers.
“We are delighted that these three, respected intermediary brands have decided to join us in bringing our industry into the digital age. We’ve been left behind by sectors such as retail and general insurance, when it comes to our selling and buying experience.
“Imagine a retailer asking you to complete separate purchase journeys for each product in your basket, before being given an accurate price and you’ll recognise why the UnderwriteMe solution is so necessary.”
All three companies will begin using the comparison service this month, with further launches (including the UK’s largest independent mortgage broker, London & Country Mortgages) planned for early 2017.
A version of the site that will be open to all intermediaries is scheduled for the first quarter of 2017.
Ian Sawyer, managing director at Assured Futures, said: “At Assured Futures, our aim is to give high quality and instant advice to all our customers.
“The current process can be repetitive, time consuming and frustrating, so we have long been supportive of what UnderwriteMe have been building.
“The comparison service is now at a point at which we can see real benefits in terms of efficiency and so we are delighted to be introducing it into our sales process.”
Alex Cleanthi, managing director of Future Proof, said: “Our brand is synonymous with high levels of customer service.
“Offering an old fashioned process, which can feel clunky and out-dated is, increasingly, unacceptable as other markets harness the power of digital technology, to enhance their customer journey.”
emma.hughes@ft.com
