Will the chain break?

AA Insurance sold its 250 high-street shops and telebrokers are increasing their market share. Shona Cronin looks at what the future holds for the major high-street chains.

Consolidation, low rates, and direct players are just some of the
problems that have been facing personal lines brokers in recent years.


The high-street chains were hit the hardest during the early 90s with the
entrance of the direct player, however, that situation has now eased as a
result of the huge acquisition costs that have affected the directs.


Despite this, the pressure in the market shows no sign of abating, with
the larger chains and telebrokers all looking to expand. Hill House
Hammond