The Belgian-Dutch financial services group Fortis reported profits were down by 6% last year, to Euros 2.598bn from Euros 2.768bn. However, its UK operation, Fortis Insurance, recorded profit growth to £32.7m from £26.5m last year.
Fortis group chief executive Anton van Rossum said the performance of the UK operation set a "benchmark" for the rest of the group.
"It's a very impressive situation that deserves to be underscored," he said.
Barry Smith, chief executive of Fortis Insurance, outlined the company's strategy to grow while giving brokers a fair deal and becoming their insurer of choice.
"We will pay the market rates for commission," he said. "We must ensure that Fortis adds value to the broker and the broker must be remunerated for the value they bring to Fortis."
He said the company's expense ratio of 21% comprised 13% for commissions and 8% for expenses, which Smith said demonstrated it was a "lean machine".
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.
