Introduction

Anthony Shannon Claims Director

Welcome to our first eZine of 2011. In previous editions we commented on the extreme weather conditions and related losses experienced in Winter 2009/2010. Little did we know that within 11 months, temperatures would again plunge to establish new record lows, causing even greater losses and economic hardship for all. December 2010 losses have again led to significant claims, likely to establish another new record in terms of frequency and value.

Here in Allianz, despite the deluge of claims reported we continued to provide high quality customer service. This response was possible through the efforts of our highly motivated claim handlers and the support and patience of our brokers. Our thanks to all involved.

We're now in the phase of completing site visits, issuing payments and finalising claims. Naturally those claims with extensive damage will take some time before repair works are completed and the resultant claim can be finalised. However, even for these cases we will, as always, continue to make advanced payments in order to reduce the hardship and inconvenience encountered by our customers.

At the claims stage we all have the privilege of providing real assistance to our customers. For an industry that traditionally receives an unfair level of negative media reportage I am always heartened at times like this by the degree of professionalism and cooperation which we and our brokers show in providing this assistance and helping our customers through periods of great personal hardship.

In this edition of the Allianz Broker eZine we outline our new Allianz Aligned Repair Panel Initiative. We are also delighted to announce the upcoming launch of our new broker training initiative. The modules will be CPD accredited and will be uniquely tailored to meet the needs of our broker partners. Under our "Product Focus" section we outline our Office Master product. Finally, we are also pleased to introduce our new 'Pleasure Craft' quote and buy application on our broker extranet www.allianzbroker.com.

We hope you find this eZine helpful and if you have any comments to make please let us know by contacting us at info@allianz.ie.

Best Regards,

Anthony Shannon
Claims Director

Property Claims - The Allianz Aligned Repair Panel

As a company we have always recognised the need to provide an all round efficient and reliable claims service. We continually look at how we can offer both excellent service and value to our customers.

Allianz Broker Training

During recent months, Allianz Ireland has been considering your invaluable feedback which we appreciate. In response, we plan to launch a number of new broker support initiatives throughout 2011.

Allianz 'Office' (OFM) Product Focus

Allianz are delighted to launch our 'product in focus' series. In this issue we will feature our 'Office Policy' proposition.

B2B Update

Never have we been more aware that time is at a premium. We are always conscious of the challenges our brokers face in satisfying their customers' needs in a timely fashion and we always endeavour to create fast and efficient methods to reach and respond to you.

Pleasure Craft on the Web

Allianz is the market leader in Ireland for Marine and Transit Insurance and we have been a leading provider of "Pleasure Craft" insurance in Ireland for many years. Our aim is always to provide excellence in servicing our customers whilst continually focusing on growth opportunities and streamlined service delivery.