RIAS' Parent Company Scoops General Insurer Of The Year Award At The British Insurance Awards

Ageas UK, parent company to Bournemouth-based Over 50s insurance provider RIAS, has won the top award at the 2011 British Insurance Awards, presented in front of 2,000 people from across the industry at the Royal Albert Hall in London.

The 'General Insurer of the Year' Award, which also recognises RIAS' contribution to the business, was awarded to Ageas UK for its record year for premium income, exceptional customer service, significant new business wins and creation of new jobs across the UK.

Commenting on the success, Barry Smith, Chief Executive, Ageas UK said: "This is a fantastic achievement and is a real testament to the commitment and hard work of the Ageas employees and the support we receive from our partners and customers. The past year has been a significant one for Ageas UK as we further grow our presence, under a new brand, in our key markets. Yet the service quality remains the hallmark of all we do and this award underlines that strength."

In the last year, Ageas launched a significant new venture 'Tesco Underwriting' with Tesco Bank and has purchased Kwik Fit Insurance Services and Castle Cover Limited, complementing the company's multi-distribution strategy. In addition, Ageas launched its new brand after changing its name from Fortis last October following the sale of Fortis Bank.

Founded in 1995 as a showcase for excellence in the insurance industry, the British Insurance Awards have quickly developed into the largest insurance industry awards scheme in the world. They cover every sector of the insurance market and every discipline with the top firms vying for the coveted fire mark trophies. The judging panel was made up of market experts, analysts and industry commentators.

To find out more about RIAS and its full range of products visit www.rias.co.uk.