http://www.autoprotect.net/ en enquiries@autoprotect.net Copyright 2010 2010-07-23T00:00:57+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/gras_savoye_choose_autoprotect_as_its_partner/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/gras_savoye_choose_autoprotect_as_its_partner/#When:23:00:57Z AutoProtect has signed a 5 year deal with Gras Savoye, France's largest broker since 1992 and the 9th largest in the world.   The deal will allow Gras Savoye to expand its specialist risk management sector in key markets in Europe and Africa. Gras Savoye is privately owned and based in Paris. They employ over 3000 staff worldwide and have been trading since 1907, and have a presence in over 100 countries. In 2009 Gras Savoye’s turnover was in excess of 547,000,000 Euros from all its operations.   Gras Savoye has chosen AutoProtect to be its partner in launching Extended warranty and other motor related insurance products to markets in Europe, Africa and Asia. AutoProtect will be providing its web based systems, training, and product design. AutoProtect will also be responsible for managing the relationships with Insurers and Reinsurers.   The territories that have already launched products include Italy and Morocco; 3 other territories are planned for 2010.   The Extended Warranty programme was successfully launched in Morocco at the recent Motor show; this is the first Extended warranty programme to be launched in Morocco and has been well received. The product is also backed by Atlanta who is one of the largest Insurance companies in Morocco. 2010-07-22T23:00:57+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/igi_parent_company_amtrust_international_strengthens_uk_and_european_presen/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/igi_parent_company_amtrust_international_strengthens_uk_and_european_presen/#When:09:51:36Z With effect from 1st July 2010, IGI will change its legal entity name to AmTrust Europe Ltd.   IGI's parent company, AmTrust International is continuing to further develop its presence and underwriting capacity in the UK and European market. Part of this strategy is to unify and consolidate its Eurocentric business under one operation, to be called AmTrust Europe Limited.   This is a positive move for AutoProtect, because IGI have gone from strength-to-strength and this name change will build on this success.   This change does not affect the cover and terms of any existing IGI policies that have been issued.   AmTrust Europe Limited is authorised and registered by the Financial Services Authority. Reg: 1229676. 2010-07-22T09:51:36+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/leading_car_dealers_endorse_williams_f1_ceramic_coat_protection/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/leading_car_dealers_endorse_williams_f1_ceramic_coat_protection/#When:09:44:43Z Among the early adopters of Williams F1 Team Ceramic Coat from AutoProtect is the prestige, franchised dealer group Lloyd Motor Group, Rob Lindsay, Franchise Director, said:   “We previously used the same paint protection product for 10 years but the improved performance and strong brand of Williams F1 Team Ceramic Coat convinced us to change. Customer reaction has been strong and profits generated from paint protection sales have increased considerably. This is a paint protection product that really works.”   Mike Bell from the leading used car supermarket on the south coast, Imperial Car Supermarkets, had similar reasons to switch to Williams F1 Team Ceramic Coat, he commented:    “Not only does Williams F1 Team Ceramic Coat provide a much better proposition in paint protection, the Williams F1 identity clearly shows this new product comes highly recommended.”   For more Information about how Williams F1 Ceramic Coat Protection can help your business please call 0871 384 3507 or email us at sales@autoprotect.net. 2010-07-22T09:44:43+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/autoprotect_support_national_distributors_in_greece/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/autoprotect_support_national_distributors_in_greece/#When:09:11:32Z AutoProtect Hellas, based in Athens Greece and headed up by Nick Koutsourais, was set up in 2008. Despite Greece’s current severe economic conditions and in the shortest of times, AutoProtect Hellas in partnership with Brokins SA the largest Greek State Insurance Broker, has become the market leader of MBI products for Greece and Cyprus. It also has operations extending to cover Turkey and Bulgaria.   Nick Koutsourais remains positive about the future ahead and is confident that AutoProtect Hellas can offer new and used car dealers a strong base of products to help a struggling car market.    “Our vision at AutoProtect Hellas is to be pioneers and innovators in our field. We’re active in the field of innovative products and services for the care and protection of the car.”   Demand in Greece for Mechanical Breakdown Insurance (MBI) has been high, and AutoProtect Hellas has seen an increasing demand for its MBI products from used and new car dealerships. Feedback from its MBI clients puts the increase down to Greek consumers simply opting for ‘peace of mind’ protection and preferring to avoid unexpected repair bills for their vehicles during difficult economic conditions.    “Our aim is to offer products to professionals in the automotive industry to find solutions to the needs and desires of their customers. The emphasis is maintaining excellent appearance and maintenance of their vehicle. And it should no longer be a problem, cause stress or headaches for the consumer, professional, dealer or agent – it should be a pleasant and inexpensive experience!” Nick added.    AutoProtect Hellas client list is an impressive one. It includes Greece’s national distributor accounts for Seat, Saab, Honda, Mitsubishi, Renault and Volvo. Large franchise groups are also looked after, including: Ford Velmar one of Greece’s largest retailers with 24 outlets covering strategic locations in Athens and Crete and over 30 years in the automotive trade. And also: BMW Ioannidis Bros, Peugeot Royal Car, Suzuki Autoprofit, and Citroen Makris; and Financing Institutions such as Credicom (a subsidiary of Credit Agricole).    Nick E. Koutsourais was born in 1970. He graduated from University of Wales Cardiff with a LLB and received his LLM from Oxford University. He is a qualified Barrister but the insurance world won him over. He acquired his ACII and FAIQ in Finance from the Chartered Insurance Institute. 2010-06-17T09:11:32+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/phil_knight_cfo/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/phil_knight_cfo/#When:11:35:02Z Where do I begin ?   Well, building on David Shapiro’s comments in his update last month, 2010 continues to develop in a real positive vein in all areas of the business. We’re delighted with how the 1st Quarter went and have welcomed many new clients on board.   How do we do this ?   Well, it’s a combination of all the things you can see here on our website. Of course we know we’ve got great products and a system that’s first class. We know we’re great at putting those two things together and delivering the right solution to the client. But, we only do it through great people and in particular how everyone in the company works together.   I’ve had many chats with our field staff this year on that subject and there have been a few real gems that have shown how well AutoProtect works as a team.   We’ve had some roaring successes where our Agents have worked in close concert with our fantastic print management team to produce personalised document drafts for a potential new client, with our claims guys to show our impressive claims management operations and not to mention our Customer Services team to co-ordinate meetings and presentations. And then of course, we deliver it all through our front end systems with the right products in place at the right time.   Once a client is on board, we don’t just let things slide. We’re always talking to our clients, making sure they’re happy with our service, listening to where we might have made a mistake or where the client wants a tweak to the system. It’s the client after all who knows what works best.   Last month we reported on the Williams F1 development. The advanced Ceramic Coat paint protection system combined with our SMART Protect Plus technology is being well received wherever we talk about it and the take up is already ahead of expectation.   Some more new things already in 2010 :   Service Plans   We’ve added a service plan offering to our repertoire. This gives the customer the chance to budget for their vehicle servicing over a defined period. We can build in bespoke service costings, shock losses, our other products and there’s some other customer loyalty tools to aid retention in our system too !   Contact Michael McVeigh at our head office for more information, or your AutoProtect Agent.   Premium Funding   New for Quarter 2 is our new Premium Funding system. This is backed by Premium Credit, the country’s largest provider of premium funding facilities, and is fully integrated into our web based systems. This means we validate the customers details on-line at the point of entry (we take a card deposit as well to help reduce cancellations) to make sure everything is in order. No paper mandates at the point of sale and a non recourse as well as recourse facility is also available.   Not only that, it’s interest free to the end consumer.   Have a look at the Products section on the website then let your Agent know you’re interested and they can talk you through the scheme in more detail. If you’re new to us, then give us a call !   Three great new offers already in 2010   Just think what we’ll be up to next ! 2010-05-04T11:35:02+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/motor_trader_sponsors_comment/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/motor_trader_sponsors_comment/#When:11:50:16Z In the April edition of the Motor Trader magazine AutoProtect’s Mike Macaulay comments on the current situation for the used market. Read on to see what he had to say.   The first quarter of 2010 has seen a continuation of the lower margins on new car sales due to the impact of the government scrappage scheme and this has led to dealers focusing on used car sales, incremental income streams and customer retention programmes. Feedback from AutoProtect’s dealer network is that it is still difficult to source the “right vehicles for the right price”. This is impacting on the level of stock of used vehicles held by dealerships but both the stock turn and profitability on used vehicles remains very good. The end of scrappage is causing some uncertainty in the market with both manufacturers and dealers seeking ways of maintaining the footfall in dealerships through innovative advertising campaigns and customer propositions.  AutoProtect has seen a significant increase in enquiries from both the franchised and non franchised dealerships requesting  incremental income products and assistance in implementing the sale of these products into the dealership sales process One thing that is certain for the rest of 2010 is that all dealerships are working towards ensuring that all incremental profit streams are maximised For more information on how AutoProtect can help you call us on 0871 384 3507 2010-05-03T11:50:16+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/a_word_from_our_ceo/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/a_word_from_our_ceo/#When:13:22:57Z As we enter 2010 our business is focussed into 5 primary areas   The Independent Motor Retail Sector, The Corporate Sector, Manufacturers & Importers, Affinity Partners and and our International Development.   INDEPENDENT MOTOR RETAIL SECTOR   The first few weeks in 2010 saw an increase in policy sales of 33% over the same period last year. Taking into consideration the adverse economic conditions in the UK which are continuing in 2010 this is a great result and testimony to the commitment and effort of our sales force, our flexible and competitive range of products combined with the terrific support of our administration unit in Harlow, Essex.    CORPORATE SECTOR   2009 saw a ten-fold increase in sales over the previous year. We are expanding the quality team that delivered this result, adding new talent with a broad range of experience. We support this sector with a portfolio of products designed specifically for the franchised dealer.   Some of our clients that we will be working with in 2010 are:   Renault Retail Group - Mercedes Benz Retail - Inchcape - Sinclair Group - Citygate – Caffyns – Platinum Motor Group – Wessex Garages – West London Motor Group – Beadles – Vindis – Isaac Agnew Group – Gordan Lamb – Robinsons Motor Group – EMG Holdings Ltd – Desira Motor Company – Barretts Of Canterbury Group – Audi South West Group – Chippenham Motor Company Ltd – Dales Central Motors Ltd – Essex Audi – Fish Brothers – John Banks – Lloyds Motor Group – Rayrigg Motor Group - Yeomans Group - Wests Group - St Leonards Motor Group - Howards Group   MANUFACTURERS AND IMPORTERS   In addition to the Pan European Mercedes Benz Truckstore and Vans used vehicle programmes launched in late 2008 we have now rolled out a programme with the IM Group in 2010 embracing Subaru & Isuzu marques. This multi product programme has already delivered an increase of 13% in product sales compared to the previous supplier in the corresponding period in 2009.This also takes into account the 50% lower used car stock levels than last year. This more than satisfactory result is thanks to the development of the focused strategy within our national sales team.    AFFINITY PARTNERS   We are about to embark on a number of major affinity relationships. We are targeting those partners that are linked to the consumer and their motor vehicle. We have and can specifically design products for each of our client’s requirements.   INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENT   AutoProtect’s growing presence in Europe has been built from its original operations in Poland and Greece. In Poland the operation trades under the name of AutoProtect Polska and is managed by Marek Chołodniuk and Grzegorz Kondejwe. This company is 100% owned by AutoProtect. Renault Credit, Nissan and Opel are some of the brands that they are working with. Our operation in Greece is AutoProtect Hellas. AutoProtect are shareholders and this is managed by Nick Koutsourais. Seat, Saab and Renault are currently transacting business with AutoProtect Hellas. AutoProtect have agreed a joint venture with a leading global insurance broker to assist them in the development of warranty and ancillary products throughout their worldwide operations. Our specialised IT systems will be utilised in their offices. We will also provide exclusive underwriting facilities and pool best practice with them.      As the year progresses I am confident that everyone at AutoProtect will be working hard to maintain the momentum that has been created in the first quarter of 2010.   David Shapiro CEO AutoProtect (MBI) Ltd 2010-03-30T13:22:57+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/williams_f1_team/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/williams_f1_team/#When:14:52:58Z In association with Williams F1, AutoProtect launches a stunning NEW paint protection product.   AutoProtect are proud to announce the launch of another key product into our extensive range of vehicle care solutions.   In partnership with the Williams Formula One Team we have combined the newest innovation in paint protection “Ceramic Coat” with our SMART Protect Plus, small accident repair technology to offer the ultimate in Bodywork, Paintwork, Interior and Alloy Wheel Protection.   The concept of paint protection products has been established for many years and has proved a valuable source of extra income for dealerships/retailers across the world. However, the rapid development and introduction of new paint technologies has not been matched by improvements in paint protection technology.   This will now change with the introduction of Williams F1 Team Ceramic Coat, a new generation of paint protection.   Ceramic Coat Protection has been specifically designed to work on all the latest automotive paint finishes and clear varnishes being developed. The active Ceramic Coat binds with complex polymers to provide a thickness and hardness unique amongst its competition. Used initially for NASA satellites and US Defence contracts, Williams F1 Team technicians have succeeded in creating a unique paint protection system that is completely new in the marketplace and will provide unrivalled performance on vehicles. Williams F1 Team Ceramic Coat can be used on all the exterior paint surfaces, including alloy wheels protection.   SMART Protect Plus will ensure bodywork remains in perfect condition free from chips, scuffs,minor dents and light scratches caused by everyday motoring. Plus alloy wheels clear of unsightly damage caused by scuffing and kerbing. Add to that Ceramic Coat protection and you’ll ensure your customer’s vehicles will remain in showroom condition for as long as possible.   2010-03-29T14:52:58+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/european_news/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/european_news/#When:13:59:43Z TruckStore and Mercedes-Benz European rollout:   TruckStore is the sales channel for Mercedes-Benz used trucks throughout the European Union, with 29 sites in the following countries:   Germany, Spain, France, Italy, Belgium, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Greece, Sweden, Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary.   AutoProtect are proud to have successfully designed and implemented on behalf of Mercedes-Benz the industry’s first pan-European used heavy goods warranty, serviced by a multilingual call centre encapsulating every language of the European Union, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.   Following the successful implementation of the TruckStore warranty, the Special Risks team at AutoProtect and the European sales team of Mercedes-Benz have now designed and are part-way through launching the Mercedes-Benz Used 1 van warranty.   The scheme is now running in Belgium, The Netherlands, Czech Republic, Poland, Sweden and Italy, with plans to expand the scheme further into other European countries over the next 12 months. 2010-03-29T13:59:43+00:00 http://www.autoprotect.net/news/autoprotect_new_joiners/ http://www.autoprotect.net/news/autoprotect_new_joiners/#When:12:25:33Z AutoProtect with its continued growth in all areas is pleased to announce the following new appointments for 2010:   Stephen McCombe – Joined the Corporate division and is part of our Corporate Development team. Stephen has 20 years motor trade experience with dealers, manufacturers and finance houses. His experience spans all aspects of dealer funding programmes and F&I alongside key knowledge of B2B invoice finance and most recently was National Sales Manager for a FN TOP 50 Finance and Leasing Company majoring in manufacturer relationships   Mike Williams- Former Regional Manager for MAPFE Abraxas. Started in the motor industry in 1988 and has gained experience with a number of positions within the PLC environment, moved to Insurance and IT solutions in 2006. He has key experience within Corporate dealer groups and of building relationships through group development and support in a regulated and focussed environment.   Gary Lancaster – Former H R Owen Group Business Manager, and Sytner F&I Specialist Development Manager. He brings a great wealth of experience from a franchised dealer group perspective.   Mike Miller – Formerly a senior executive of Global Insurance Management. Mike has joined the sales team and will be looking to manage and expand our opportunities in Scotland and Northern Ireland.   David Rogers – Formerly of Global Insurance Management. David has joined our sales team in the south west and brings much local knowledge, expertise and relationships into this territory.   Murray Brash – Formerly of Car Care Plan. Murray joined the sales team in the midlands area and brings an in depth knowledge in the franchise arena.    Steve Young – Formerly of Mercedes Benz Customer Services, Maastricht in Holland, S&B Commercials and Mercedes Benz Lakeside, Steve has joined us as the National Account Manager in the Commercial Division.     In this quarter we have also strengthened our Head Office operation with the following people:   Dan Nixon – Assistant Analyst. Dan Joins the underwriting team and brings with him expertise gained from his time at Marsh.   Michael Bowles – Claims Engineer. Michael joins us with a background from Ford commercial.   Mark Saunders – Claims Engineer. Mark Joins with a background from Sytners BMW in Romford.   The AutoProtect Contact Centre is Managed by:-    Chris Hales and is Supported by:-   Ella-Louise Stephens    Kristina Hancock    Sarah Mole    Chelsie Simpson    Elaine Scott     Dwaine Walker     AutoProtect (MBI) Ltd is a company of great career opportunity. 2010-03-29T12:25:33+00:00