As we dive into the evolving landscape of insurance and risk management, I’m thrilled to sit down with Simon Glairy, a renowned expert in insurance and Insurtech. With his deep expertise in risk management and AI-driven risk assessment, Simon offers unparalleled insights into the recent rebranding of RSA and NIG to Intact Insurance. Today, we’ll explore the strategic vision behind this transformation, its impact on customers and markets across the UK, Ireland, and Europe, and how it positions Intact for ambitious growth in the global commercial and specialty insurance sectors.
Can you walk us through the main reasons behind the rebranding of RSA and NIG to Intact Insurance?
Absolutely, Benjamin. The rebranding to Intact Insurance is a pivotal step in unifying operations across multiple regions under a single global identity. It’s about creating a cohesive presence that reflects the company’s broader vision. This move is deeply tied to Intact’s growth strategy, aiming to streamline operations and enhance brand recognition. By aligning under one name, it signals a commitment to consistency and strength in the market, which is essential for building trust with customers and partners.
How does this rebrand fit into Intact’s broader growth ambitions?
The rebrand is a cornerstone of Intact’s plan to double in size by 2030. It’s not just about a new logo or name—it’s about positioning the company as a powerhouse in commercial and specialty insurance. Unifying the brand helps Intact leverage its international footprint, making it easier to scale operations, tap into new markets, and build a stronger competitive edge, especially in the UK where it aims to lead in commercial lines.
Why was now the right moment to unify under a single global identity?
Timing is everything in a move like this. The insurance landscape is becoming more interconnected, with customers and brokers expecting seamless experiences across borders. Now was the ideal time because Intact has already built a strong foundation through its acquisitions and expertise. Unifying under one identity allows the company to capitalize on that momentum, ensuring they’re seen as a global player ready to tackle complex, international challenges.
What does operating as Intact Insurance mean for customers in the UK, Ireland, and Europe?
For customers, this rebrand means a more connected and consistent experience. They’ll benefit from a broader range of products—from property to renewable energy—backed by a global network that operates in over 150 countries. It’s about delivering tailored solutions with the confidence of a larger, unified entity. Customers can expect the same local expertise they’ve relied on, now enhanced by global resources and capabilities.
How will this rebrand make working with brokers easier?
Brokers are a critical part of the equation, and the rebrand simplifies engagement with them. A unified brand means clearer communication, streamlined processes, and better access to Intact’s full suite of offerings. It reduces confusion that can come from dealing with multiple brand identities and allows brokers to tap into Intact’s international capacity more efficiently, ultimately helping them serve their clients better.
The rebrand has been described as more than just a name change. Can you unpack what that means?
Certainly. It’s a statement of who Intact is as a company. Beyond the name, it reflects a commitment to expertise, making business straightforward, and sticking to a values-driven approach. It’s about showing the market that Intact isn’t just another insurer—it’s a partner with deep knowledge, a focus on ease of collaboration, and a mission to deliver with integrity across every interaction.
How does this new identity highlight Intact’s approach to business?
The Intact name embodies a forward-thinking mindset. It showcases their expertise in commercial and specialty lines while emphasizing a customer-first philosophy. Their approach is rooted in combining local know-how with global strength, ensuring they can handle everything from local risks to complex, cross-border challenges with agility and confidence.
Intact aims to double in size by 2030. How does this rebrand support that bold goal?
The rebrand is a catalyst for that ambition. It creates a unified front that makes Intact more recognizable and trusted on a global scale, which is crucial for attracting new business and entering new markets. It also streamlines internal operations, allowing them to deploy resources more effectively and focus on growth areas like specialty lines, where higher margins and innovation are key drivers.
Are there specific markets or business areas Intact is targeting for this growth?
Definitely. The UK is a major focus, with a clear goal to become the leading commercial lines insurer. Beyond that, specialty sectors like renewable energy and infrastructure are on the radar. These are areas with growing demand and complexity, where Intact can leverage its scale, data capabilities, and global network to stand out and capture significant market share.
How does combining local knowledge with global capabilities benefit customers practically?
It’s a game-changer for customers. Imagine a UK-based company with operations spanning multiple countries—they need an insurer who understands local regulations but can also manage international risks seamlessly. Intact’s model ensures that local teams bring nuanced expertise, while global resources provide the backing to handle larger, more intricate challenges, delivering a consistent and reliable experience.
What steps are being taken to ensure consistency across different regions?
Consistency comes from aligning processes and communication under one brand. Intact is investing in training and technology to ensure that whether a customer is in Ireland or elsewhere in Europe, they get the same high standard of service. It’s also about fostering collaboration across regions, so teams share best practices and insights, creating a unified approach to problem-solving and customer care.
With a wide range of products, are there any emerging areas you’re particularly excited about?
Absolutely, renewable energy is a space with tremendous potential. As the world shifts toward sustainability, there’s a growing need for tailored insurance solutions for wind, solar, and other green projects. Intact is well-positioned to innovate here, given its specialty focus and global perspective. It’s exciting to see how they can shape the future of risk management in this sector.
How does Intact plan to differentiate itself in competitive specialty insurance sectors?
Differentiation comes from leveraging scale and data. Intact can analyze risks with precision, thanks to advanced tools and a wealth of global data, which allows them to offer customized solutions that competitors might struggle to match. Pair that with strong broker relationships and a commitment to innovation, and they’re carving out a unique space in specialty markets.
What kind of impact do you hope Intact’s rebrand will have on the UK commercial and specialty markets?
I think the impact will be significant. Intact is signaling a stronger push into these markets, which could raise the bar for competition. Their focus on streamlined broker engagement and efficient capacity deployment means faster, more responsive service. Plus, their emphasis on innovation—especially in areas like renewable energy—could drive new standards and solutions that reshape how risks are managed in these sectors.
What is your forecast for the future of commercial and specialty insurance with players like Intact leading the charge?
I see a future where the industry becomes even more dynamic and tech-driven. With companies like Intact at the forefront, we’ll likely see greater integration of data and technology in risk assessment and product development. There’s also going to be a stronger push toward sustainability and managing emerging risks, like climate change or cyber threats. Intact’s global-local model could set a trend, encouraging others to balance scale with personalized service, ultimately benefiting customers with more innovative and accessible insurance solutions.
