10:46am Thursday 8th January 2009
By Ali Dent
AN insurance broker in Chipping Sodbury has been awarded a top honour in the industry Oscars.
Higos Insurance Services, which has a branch on the High Street, was named independent regional broker of the year at the Insurance Times awards ceremony.
Founder and managing director Ian Gosden said: "We take great pride in the quality of service and advice we offer to all our clients, but this award is particularly poignant because it takes into account our contribution to the South West economy and community."
Since the company was set up in 1990, Higos has expanded and now employs nearly 200 staff.
The firm’s income has doubled in the last three years and a further 50 staff are set to join in 2009 with the opening of six new branches in the region.
"We took the decision early on that to maintain our growth we had to build a strong local reputation, not only to generate business by raising our brand profile but also to help us recruit the talented and hard-working employees that every successful company depends on," said Mr Gosden.
The firm prides itself on excellent customer service and believes that ethos has been the key to its success.
"Clients have far more loyalty to their local broker than to an internet or direct broker because they value a personal service," said Mr Godsen.
"We have also taken active steps to sponsor and support local organisations and charities, and to have a programme for visiting schools and colleges to talk to young people, not only about opportunities in the insurance industry, but about personal development and how they can best plan to achieve their overall life goals."
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