Seven years ago, the insurance landscape was evolving, and the Smart Choice Express Markets program was born out of a desire to create opportunity and value for our agents in the E&S space.
What no one could have predicted at the time was the critical void it would come to fill—particularly during the hard market of the past several years. Today, this innovative program stands as a cornerstone of the company’s success, boasting 360% growth since its inception in 2018 and accounting for a remarkable 20% of the company’s overall revenue.
Bridging the Gap in Tough Times
When the program was introduced, it was impossible to anticipate the pandemic or its profound impact on the industry. As standard markets closed their doors, the Smart Choice Express Markets vertical became the bridge for agents to connect with viable solutions.
The program, while it has been especially impactful in coastal and catastrophe areas, has also been pivotal to agents looking to place hard-to-place commercial, artisan contractors and non-standard auto coverage. With coverage falling out of the standard markets, Express Markets has given Smart Choice agents all over the country the ability to place coverage that they otherwise would not be able to.
Quality, Not Quantity
From day one, the program was committed to excellence. Currently more than 40 markets are partnered with the program, yet far more have been turned away than admitted. Each market is carefully vetted, providing agents with trusted, top-rated partners.
This approach has built a strong foundation of reliability and credibility.
Impressive Growth and Impact
Starting with just a handful of partners, Express Markets has added 30 carrier partners and markets over the past seven years, achieving a scale few anticipated.
This robust growth has led to five market segments, allowing agents the opportunity to diversify their offerings.
These include:
- Wholesale Partners
- Property & Home
- Non-Standard Auto
- Artisan Contractors
- Specialty/Niche
The expanded and diversified offerings of Express Markets have given Smart Choice agents the ability to write thousands of niche and hard-to-place classes of business. You can find out more and learn about some of these classes at www.expressmarkets.com.
This expansion, coupled with the ability to meet agent needs during challenging times, underscores the program’s adaptability and relevance in the industry.
The Bright Future Ahead
Looking forward, we continue to be optimistic about the Express Market program’s trajectory. Artificial intelligence is poised to redefine underwriting, claims processing, and servicing, creating efficiencies that will elevate the program further. The opportunities in this space seem boundless, positioning Express Markets as a leader in the next era of insurance innovation.
Express Markets started as a forward-thinking solution but quickly became indispensable in an industry marked by change and challenge. With a strong foundation and a future powered by technology, its story is one of resilience, innovation, and endless potential.
As we celebrate the close of another year, we want to extend our deepest gratitude for your partnership and trust. Here’s to continued success, shared growth, and a bright year ahead. Wishing you a joyful holiday season and a prosperous New Year!