MARSH, the risk and insurance services firm, has launched a new insurance telesales and service operation to be based in Southampton, creating around 40 jobs over the next year.

The new service, to be known as Marsh business Insurance Solutions, has been set up following the firm's extensive research into the needs of entrepreneurial small to medium sized business.

Richard Hawkins, head of Marsh Business Insurance Solutions, said: "The very strong message we have received from the research findings is that small business customers are looking for the security of a strong brand with high levels of service. We will be providing an unrivalled service offering simplicity, accessibility and value for all our customers.''

He says research has indicated that 45 per cent of businesses with turnover up to £1 million would prefer to handle their insurance arrangements by telephone and post rather than more traditional outlets like high street brokers. Buyers in this sector are increasingly requiring competitive premiums, a fast hassle-free claims service and simple, easy-to-understand policies.

Marsh has worked closely with CGU Insurance and Royal & Sun Alliance for 18 months to set up the new organisation, and the firm says discussions are well advanced with other major insurers who are interested in participating in specialist areas.

Marsh's office at Havelock Chambers, Southampton, and its network of offices around the UK are to continue to concentrate on offering more bespoke services which it claims can lead to cost-effective risk management programmes.

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