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Average carrier performance 8.20
After a big bump in satisfaction last year regarding their carriers’ commitment to the broker distribution channel, brokers gave carriers slightly lower ratings this year. Even so, with an average score of 8.20, this area ranked highest of all eight categories, and 18 of the 24 carriers on this year’s list earned five-star ratings.
Among the positive feedback brokers provided for their carriers was praise for creating a more equal partnership. “They have demonstrated that they are willing to entertain broker support,” said one respondent.
Others were complimentary but still a bit wary: “They are saying/doing all the right things here at the moment,” said one broker, while another said their carrier remains committed to brokers “for the moment, but who knows in the long run.”
A large portion of the comments centred on brokers’ opposition to direct-to-consumer business. “Too much direct communication with our client – work more through brokers,” one respondent said. “They have multiple online direct writing companies. Solution? Shut these direct sellers down,” said another broker. Added another: “They need to keep more separation from their direct writing division.”
Requests for resources dedicated to assisting the independent broker channel also arose, as did appeals for “more help with appetite and capacity” and better communication.
