MAYFIELD VILLAGE, Ohio, January 29, 2002 � Launched in May 2001, Progressive�s ProLeads� Referrals Program, which provides sales leads to independent agents around the country, has helped agents sell 50,000 new insurance policies, according to agent-reported sales data. These new policies represent at least $40 million in written premium. Progressive is the country�s number one writer of private passenger auto insurance through independent agents and brokers, and one of the country�s largest and fastest-growing insurance companies overall.
The ProLeads program is just one of the tools Progressive provides independent agents to help them take advantage of the company�s aggressive advertising campaign and brand recognition. Typically, consumers referred to an agent through the program are people who see Progressive advertising, call the company or go to progressive.com for a quote, but decide they want the personalized service and counsel of a local agent.
Progressive sends consumers� contact information � with their permission � via e-mail to the agent selected by the customer from a list of about five local agents. Agents can also access these leads via the company�s secure, agent-dedicated Web site, ForAgentsOnly.com (FAO), and use the site to track and update their sales efforts on a referrals report page for their agency.
�Not only is Progressive a highly-recognized brand among consumers, but we�re a leader in providing independent agents and brokers with technology they can use to grow profitably,� said Bob Williams, Progressive�s agent business group president. �The ProLeads program brings together that brand name and technology to help agents build their business. We�re delighted at the success of the program, and very pleased that it�s helped agents write more business.�
The ProLeads program is available only to Progressive authorized agents and brokers, and guidelines for participation vary by region. Usually, agents are required to meet a minimum volume requirement and quote Progressive to all referred consumers. However, the company does not require participating agents to place the business referred to them with Progressive.
Williams continued: �Unlike direct companies or captive agents, independent agents are uniquely suited to provide consumers with a variety of coverage options from multiple companies. The purpose of the ProLeads program is to give agents an opportunity to add that value to consumers� shopping experience. Sure, we�d like to get all those policy sales, but all we ask is that we get a shot at them. Independent agents should do what they do best � provide the personalized service and counsel and choice that consumers want and need.�
Progressive agents and brokers interested in participating in the program should contact their territory sales manager.
The Progressive group of insurance companies, in business since 1937, comprises the nation�s fourth largest auto insurance group. The more than 30,000 independent agencies that represent Progressive combine the power of personalized service and counsel with Progressive�s trusted brand, superior 24/7 service, innovative technology and competitive rates. Authorized agents and brokers can login to Progressive�s agent-dedicated Web site, ForAgentsOnly.com (FAO), to access customer policies, state and countrywide news, and other interactive features. The group�s holding company, The Progressive Corporation, is publicly traded at NYSE:PGR.
Progressive Insurance Web site is at www.progressive.com.
