Old images die hard. Drop the phrase “regional insurer” in conversation with independent agents and it evokes images of close relationships, ease of underwriting, and in-depth knowledge of the local market. The traditional perception held that the regional insurer was the “Cheers” of carriers: a place where everybody knows your name, the antithesis of the monolithic Big National Insurance Company that expects to be on your top three carrier list but only sends its rep to see you once a year.

Yet while this image may still ring true in some cases, for others, industry changes have turned that stereotype on its head. Small regional carriers have morphed into “super-regionals”; big national insurers are targeting Main Street business and personal lines; and all are leveraging technology to improve ease of use for agents and customers alike.

Ask agents, brokers and even insurers if there’s still a significant difference between today’s regional and national carriers, and the answers you’ll get aren’t as clear-cut as the old stereotypes. However, one axiom remains true: Independent producers still need to represent a healthy mix of both to best serve their clients.

Want to continue reading?
Become a Free
PropertyCasualty360 Digital Reader.

INCLUDED IN A DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP:

  • All PropertyCasualty360.com news coverage, best practices, and in-depth analysis.
  • Educational webcasts, resources from industry leaders, and informative newsletters.
  • Other award-winning websites including BenefitsPRO.com and ThinkAdvisor.com.

Already have an account?


NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2025 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to asset-and-logo-licensing@alm.com. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

PropertyCasualty360

Join PropertyCasualty360

Don’t miss crucial news and insights you need to make informed decisions for your P&C insurance business. Join PropertyCasualty360.com now!

  • Unlimited access to PropertyCasualty360.com - your roadmap to thriving in a disrupted environment
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including BenefitsPRO.com, ThinkAdvisor.com and Law.com
  • Exclusive discounts on PropertyCasualty360, National Underwriter, Claims and ALM events

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join PropertyCasualty360

Copyright © 2025 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.