Brokers have the 'right stuff'

Outside threats to business have always been around, but brokers today appear to be facing new forms of competition at a time when business is already tough. Richard Welsh talked to some brokers about their fears and concerns for a healthy future

There has been a lot of talk recently about the demise of the smaller broker and there is no doubt that competition has never been so tough.

Many smaller brokers have faced testing times before but have managed to adapt their business and survive.

Most brokers have been in business for 30 or 40 years and have seen numerous developments which have threatened to encroach on their domain. Insurers going direct, the internet and high street brand assurers are just some of the contenders. And yet many