The Smart Choice® Agents Program, which currently serves more than 3,000 independent agencies in 32 states, has announced plans to expand the scope of the program in six states.
According to Chief Executive Officer Douglas S. Witcher, the program is being expanded in Arizona, Colorado, Nevada, New York, Washington and West Virginia. “We are excited about the opportunity to bring The Freedom to Succeed to even more independent agents in these states,” he says. “While we are currently operating in these states, we want to expand the program to even more independent agents, giving them the opportunity to have access to nationally-known, top-rated insurance carriers and benefit from Smart Choice’s® training, education and planning assistance.”
The expansion effort is being led by Smart Choice® Executive Vice President Paul Taylor, an industry veteran who has been instrumental in the growth of the Smart Choice® program. “This is an exciting time for Smart Choice®,” Taylor explains. “We have had great encouragement and support from our company partners for this expansion, and look forward to opening up new opportunities for agents in these states.”
To begin the expansion efforts, Taylor is seeking seasoned insurance professionals to serve as state directors in each of the six states. Those interested may contact Taylor at 270-684-1352 or email him at ptaylor@smartchoiceagents.com.
The Smart Choice® Agents Program, founded in 1994, provides access to personal and commercial lines property and casualty markets for agents who cannot meet the production requirements of those companies. “We negotiate low volume commitments for our agents, who are directly appointed with each of the carriers,” Witcher explains. “This levels the playing field for hometown agencies. It also allows agents to provide their customers with product choice, ensuring that they are getting the best product for their needs.”
The hallmark of the Smart Choice® Agents Program is that agents retain 100 percent ownership of their agencies and their customers. Agents do not pay start-up or monthly program fees, and can receive 100 percent commissions once they reach a fair, attainable commission cap. Smart Choice® agents also benefit from the training and support of Smart Choice® and insurance company staff; assistance with business planning; and help in determining how and when to perpetuate their agencies.