Director says welcoming Markel ’enables us to expand our offering of choice’

Digital broker Simply Business has announced that Markel UK will join its insurer panel.

The move will see Markel offer contractors combined insurance for businesses with 10 or more employees and a turnover of at least £750,000.

Simply Business said the partnership would expand its portfolio of products for larger businesses.

Ruth Owen, UK director of commercial at Simply Business, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Markel as a global partner.

“Its outstanding customer service and unique wealth of expertise in the SME sector make them an ideal fit for our expanding portfolio of products for larger businesses.”

Track record

Simply Business also offers insurance to sole traders, microbusinesses, landlords and small businesses across more than 1,200 different trades and professions.

Owen said that “small businesses are the lifeblood of our communities” and that “welcoming Markel to our panel enables us to expand our offering of choice, simplicity and value even further”.

Nicola Sumner, divisional director for partnerships at Markel, added: “Simply Business has an impressive track record of growth and serving its customers to the highest possible standards and we are delighted to support its expansion ambitions in the larger companies space.

“Our contractors combined product has been carefully tailored to meet the needs of the customers it is designed to protect, ensuring they have the robust coverage and added-value services they need to thrive.”

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.