More Consumers Turning to Internet to Purchase Auto Insurance
Wednesday, December 9th, 2009
According to the article “Allstate: More Customers Buying Auto Insurance Online” by Lavonne Kuykendall found on money.cnn.com, auto insurance companies who have relied on agents to bring in new customers are now adapting quickly to Internet sales.
Thomas J. Wilson, the chief executive of Allstate Corp, says their goal is to have fewer, larger agencies that offer a more consistent experience for policyholders. He also said that half of its new auto insurance policyholders first make contact through the Allstate website. Allstate is quickly adjusting to meet customer Internet demands.
The article points out that Allstate’s plan calls for fewer agents with an enhanced local presence. About 87% of web site shoppers end up closing the deal with an agent so agencies continue to be an important part of their plan. This is particularly true for homeowners with more than one car who often prefer using an agent because the policy can get complicated.
