Royal and SunAlliance (R&SA) achieved an 85% retention rate in its commercial book, although the competitive market took its toll on the insurer's underwriting result.
For the first six months of 2006, R&SA's total UK commercial underwriting result deteriorated from £65m, compared to £57m in the same period last year.
R&SA UK chief executive Bridget McIntrye said the competitive climate had led to a 11% drop in commercial premiums, but new business premiums in the six months were up 17% compared to last year.
"We also saw a 65% rise in second quarter sales compared to the first quarter.
"Client retention is very important to both myself and Brendan [McManus]," she added. The insurer signed £225m in new deals and will see a further £20m in 2007.
She said the ethos of claims "technical mastery", combined with the favourable weather, had meant the insurer's claims ratio was now 61%, making a claims savings of £150m.
This was £25m more than the benefit her former employer, Norwich Union, gained from good weather in the first half, though McIntrye admitted it was "from a smaller base than NU".
On motor pricing, the insurer would look to make "moderate increases where appropriate". Overall, More Th>n growth was up 14%, and R&SA was working on future motor growth through initiative Drivetime and discounted premiums on eco-friendly cars.
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.
