Insurers exiting the UK market and implications for policyholders

20 November 2023

In recent years, we’ve witnessed a significant trend in the insurance industry: leading insurers are strategically withdrawing from specific market segments, causing ripples in the UK insurance landscape – says Simeon Chapman, Hazelton Mountford.

A prime example of this is Zurich’s recent decision to exit the personal insurance market for everyday individuals. Additionally, Aviva is rethinking its presence in the high net worth (HNW) motor market due to the alarming surge in vehicle theft. These actions have far-reaching consequences, impacting not only the insurers themselves but also the premiums paid by policyholders across the UK.

Zurich’s decision to withdraw from personal insurance for the average individual is a clear sign of the shifting tides in the insurance industry. The reasons behind this move are complex, but some of the factors include increased competition, regulatory pressures and the challenging landscape of personal lines insurance. As a result, the market has seen a reduction in choices for those seeking coverage, potentially leading to a more competitive landscape among the remaining players. Unfortunately, with fewer insurers participating, premiums may rise as a result of increased demand and limited supply.

On the other hand, Aviva’s re-evaluation of their presence in the HNW motor market is driven by the alarming rise in vehicle theft incidents among high-value cars. As insurers face mounting claims, they may be compelled to raise premiums to compensate for the growing risks. This shift could have a direct impact on policyholders who own expensive vehicles, potentially leading to increased costs.

The repercussions of these developments are not confined to just Zurich and Aviva; the entire insurance market feels the effects. Insurers that continue to serve these markets may need to adjust their strategies to accommodate the influx of new customers. This adaptation can potentially lead to an overall increase in premiums across the UK as insurers aim to maintain profitability and manage risks effectively.

As an insurance broker, we’re closely monitoring these changes to ensure our clients receive the best coverage at competitive rates. It’s crucial for policyholders to stay informed about these market shifts and explore their options to find the most suitable coverage at the right price. While the insurance landscape in the UK is evolving, Hazelton Mountford remains committed to assisting our clients in navigating these changes and securing the protection they need.

Feel free to contact us for a chat about your policy now.

As seen in the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce’s Business Direction Magazine (page 6).