Universal Underwriters Group recently adopted the brand name Zurich as part of its ongoing integration with Zurich North America Commercial (ZNAC).

For nearly 25 years, Universal Underwriters and ZNAC have maintained a tradition of great customer service as the leader in the automotive insurance industry. While aligning its market presence with the Zurich brand, Universal Underwriters will continue to evaluate actively its business practices to deliver more relevant and secure solutions to meet customers’ needs. All of the specialized knowledge, personal service and trusted relationships Universal Underwriters’ customers and associations have grown to expect will be combined with the global capabilities, financial strength and security of ZNAC.

“We are fully committed to developing the Zurich brand in the automotive and dealer categories and look forward to continue providing Universal Underwriters’ customers and associations with great value, products and services,” said Tom Bradley, president of Universal Underwriters Group.

Bob Tschippert, CPCU and senior vice president of Universal’s automotive specialty markets, said, “Customers believe in Universal Underwriters not because of a name, but because of strong relationships and promises kept. The move to the Zurich brand will enhance those relationships by giving customers access to a greater depth of capabilities and resources.”

Customers will begin seeing Universal Underwriters branded as Zurich in collateral, advertisements and day-to-day contacts.

“In addition to our market expertise,” said Tschippert, “we now have the full power of the Zurich brand behind us. Automotive aftermarket businesses will not see significant changes in the way we handle business. Businesses will continue to work through an account executive and we will continue to provide peace-of-mind through strong relationships and outstanding service. The same is true for aftermarket associations. The value they receive from our shared interests will be steadily increasing as Universal Underwriters further integrates with Zurich. We look forward to continuing all of our relationships.”

Dennis Kane, CPCU and senior vice president of Universal’s dealer markets, added, “We received tremendous support from our Customer Council when we presented plans to adopt the Zurich name during our biannual meeting in September 2006. The auto dealers that sell our finance and insurance products advised us they see greater potential for brand awareness and recognition with their retail customers by utilizing the global Zurich brand.”

For more information about Zurich Financial Services Group, go to: http://www.zurichna.com.