Wisconsin Independent Agent | August 2023 Magazine

COVER STORY:

Make Your Agency Stand Out With These Tools & Techniques

This month's issue provides you with a plethora of techniques & tools that you can put to work in your agency to help successfully navigate this hard market. From marketing techniques like your StoryBrand and graphic design to Trusted Choice's Hard Market Toolkit, the IIAW is here to help you make your agency stand out!

THANK YOU...............................................................................4-9

Diamond- and Gold-Level Supporting Company Members

INSURANCE BARTENDER......................................................10-12

How Donald Miller's StoryBrand Can Help Independent Agents Stand Out and Thrive

NEW MEMBER RESOURCE....................................................14-15

Trusted Choice Launches Hard Market Toolkit to Help Agencies Navigate This Market

RISKY BUSINESS..........................................................................18

Reviewing Contract Language: Time Well Spent

MARKETING................................................................................20

The Power of Good Graphic Design

E&O.................................................................................................24

E&O Risk Management: Top 10 Words and Phrases to Avoid On Your Website

PERSONAL LINES.....................................................................28

Debunk Customers' Most Common Flood Myths to Avoid E&O Claims

COMMERCIAL LINES.............................................................32

Keeping Up with the Changing Technology Increases Cyber Risk for Restaurants GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS..........................................................34-35 Good Riddance to Wisconsin's Personal Property Tax MEMBERS IN THE NEWS.......................................................36-37 FOOD FOR THOUGHT.............................................................39

wisconsin INDEPENDENT AGENT

INDEPENDENT INSURANCE AGENTS OF WISCONSIN

725 John Nolen Drive

Madison, Wisconsin 53713

Phone: (608) 256-4429

Fax: (608) 256-0170

www.iiaw.com

2022-2023 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

President:

Nick Arnoldy | Marshfield Insurance Agency, Inc., Marshfield

President-Elect:

Michael Ansay | Ansay & Associates, Port Washington

Secretary-Treasurer:

Joanne Lukas Szymaszek | Johnson Insurance Services, LLC, Racine

Chairman of the Board:

Marc Petersen | American Advantage - Petersen Group, New Berlin

State National Director:

Steve Leitch | Leitch Insurance, River Falls

2022-2023 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Janel Bazan | Avid Risk Solutions/Assured Partners, Middleton

Mike Harrison | R&R Insurance Services, Inc., Waukesha

Aaron Marsh | Marsh Insurance Services, Inc., Rice Lake

Kash Motlani | Ansay & Associates, Inc., Port Washington

Dan Lau | Robertson Ryan & Associates, Milwaukee

Andrea Nelson | Unisource Insurance Associates, LLC, Wauwatosa

Brad Reitzner | M3 Insurance Solutions, Madison

IIAW Staff

Matt Banaszynski | Chief Executive Officer 608.256.4429 • matt@iiaw.com

Mallory Cornell | Vice President 608.210.2975 • mallory@iiaw.com

Kim Kramp | Accounting Supervisor 608.210.2976 • kim@iiaw.com

Trisha Ours | Director of Insurance Services 608.210.2973 • trisha@iiaw.com

Evan Leitch | Agency Solutions Advisor 608.210.2971 • evan@iiaw.com

Kaylyn Staudt | Marketing and Communications Coordinator 608.210.2977 • kaylyn@iiaw.com

Jeff Thiel | Director of Agency Success 608.256.4429 • jeff@iiaw.com

Andrea Michelz | Education & Membership Engagement Coordinator 608.210.2972 • andrea@iiaw.com

Diana Banaszynski | Events Coordinator and HR Business Partner 608.256.4429 • diana@iiaw.com

Ali Smeester | Accounting Specialist 608.256.4429 • ali@iiaw.com

Freeman Zhang | Data Analytics Intern 608.256.4429 • freeman@iiaw.com

Wisconsin Independent Agent is the official magazine of the Independent Insurance Agents of Wisconsin (IIAW) and is published monthly by IIAW 725 John Nolen Drive, Madison WI 53713. Phone: 608.256.4429. IIAW does not necessarily endorse any of the companies advertising in publication or the views of the writers. IIAW reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to reject advertising that does not meet IIAW qualifications or which may detract from its business, professional or ethical standards. © 2023 For information on advertising, contact Kaylyn Staudt, 608.210.2977 or kaylyn@iiaw.com.

Company Name: Arlington/Roe

Company Location: 8888 Keystone Crossing, 9th Floor, Indianapolis, IN 46240

Date Company Was Founded: August 1964

Current Officers:

• James A. Roe, President and Chief Executive Officer

• Andy Roe, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer

• Janet Phillips, Executive Vice President, Personal Lines

• Jim Eades, Executive Vice President

• J. Patrick Roe, Senior Vice President, Marketing & Sales

• John Immordino, Senior Vice President, Professional Liability

• Rick Pitts, Vice President and General Counsel

• Kurt Klumpers, Vice President, Worker’s Compensation Broker

• Jennie Carr, Vice President, Commercial Brokerage

• Terri John, Vice President, Commercial Binding

Underwriting Team Leader

• Robin Snider, Vice President, Healthcare & Human Services

• Andy Hamilton, Vice President, Transportation

Date Company Was Founded: August 1964

Products Company Specializes In: Arlington/Roe is a family-owned independent broker managing general agency and wholesale insurance broker headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana operating the core states of Illinois,

Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Tennessee and Wisconsin.

The company specializes in Aviation, Bonds, Cannabis, Commercial Agribusiness, Farm & Ranch, Healthcare & Human Services, Personal Lines, Professional Liability, Property & Casualty, Transportation and Workers' Compensation. In addition to several other areas of expertise, the company specializes in finding the right solution for complex risk challenges through crossdepartment teamwork and access to a broad range of over 200 carriers.

Outlook for the Company's Future: Arlington/Roe's growth includes significant increases in human resources, talent acquisition, sales & marketing, and markets available to assist our independent agents. After reaching a premium milestone of $288 million in 2022, total premium volume in 2023 for 6 months is up 17.2% and expected to be $330 million by end of year.

For Wisconsin, the most significant development has been the growth of the team. We have added new associates to help grow the Wisconsin book of business.

President and CEO Jim Roe said, "Our corporate values shine through our people, and we thank our Wisconsin agency partners for the trust you place in us." Senior Vice President of Marketing & Sales, J. Patrick Roe added, "In both a world and industry of constant change, we will continue to stay fiercely independent and find the best talent, tools and efficiencies to be the number one wholesale broker of choice for the IIAW member agents in the Badger state."

WI Team: Alesha Swan, Aimi Kunesh, Brandee Gibson, Holli Lynch, Julie Powers, Kelly Cannistra and Pam Jewel.

Company Name: Auto-Owners Insurance

Company Location: Lansing, Michigan

Date Company Was Founded: July 1, 1916

Current Officers:

• Jamie Whisnant, CEO

• Mike Pike, President

• Andrea Lindemeyer, Executive Vice President

Products Company Specializes In: We provide a wide range of personal, commercial and farm products.

Auto-Owners specializes in garage risks (auto, boat and ATV sales & repair operations), contractors, light manufacturing and commercial auto, including trucking, as well as Main Street BOP business. We also offer loss control services within the state of Wisconsin. We offer a full range of life, health and annuity products.

Outlook for the Company's Future: With our simple human sense® approach to insurance, we will continue to be committed to the independent agency system in marketing our products. We've grown to become the 14th largest property & casualty company in the nation. We expect to maintain AM Best’s highest rating (A++ Superior), which we have earned every year since 1972. That makes us an especially attractive place for agents to place their customers’ business.

products. Commercially, we are a perfect fit for bars/ taverns, bowling alleys, restaurants, hotels, and LRO.

Company Name: Badger Mutual Insurance

Company Location: Milwaukee, WI

Date Company Was Founded: 1887

Current Executive Team:

• Dan Nigro – President, CEO

• Dan Wolfgram – COO

• Darrin Groendal – CFO

• Kathy Bubeck –VP, Claims & Secretary

• Andy Thiede -VP, IT

• Brian Wiza – VP, Underwriting

• Sean Costello – Director of Marketing

• Kelly Jaynes – Director of HR

• Joanna Glaser – Corporate Counsel

• Laura Michna – Asst. VP Administration

Products Company Specializes In: We continue to innovate and diversify our product portfolio, while remaining true to products and niches that fit our appetite. On the personal lines side, we offer home, auto, umbrella, dwelling fire, and renters insurance

We serve residents and partner agents throughout 7 states: Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, Michigan, Arizona and Nevada.

Outlook for the Company's Future: Our HQ location in the heart of Milwaukee’s hospitality district combined with our engagement with industry partners, like IIAW, allow us to keep a pulse on what our agency partners and policyholders need from us a carrier. Even with 135 years under our belt, we continue to rise: consistently achieving financial and operational goals outlined in our strategic plan, ramping up product and system innovations with the upcoming launch of our commercial policy administration system, cultivating relationships between partner agents and employees while incorporating professional development throughout all departments, and doubling-down on our commitment to customer service. By controlling what we can control – our relationships, customer service, and ease of doing business – we remain the heart of your insurance protection: a real voice on the phone and our hands outstretched in partnership with all stakeholders.

Deep Relationships. Unmatched Service.

EXCELLENT HOSPITALITY.

Our success is rooted in exceptional partnerships and a promise to listen, respond, and find solutions when our agents and mutual customers need us most. Let’s talk about how Central can help you better serve your clients and add value to your agency.

Company Name: Fremont Insurance Company

Website: www.fmic.com

Current Executive Team:

• Jim McCafferty, Head of Fremont

• Tim Bassett, Vice President of Sales & Marketing

• Pete Buhl, Assistant Vice President of Claims

• Joel Bush, Director of Personal Lines and Products

Location of Headquarters: Fremont, Michigan

Date Company Was Founded: 1876

Company Profile:

Headquartered in Fremont, Michigan, Fremont Insurance Company has provided exceptional insurance coverage and claims service since 1876. Fremont Insurance Company is a wholly owned

subsidiary of The Auto Club Group - Dearborn MI, with an AM Best FSR of “A” (Excellent). Our exceptional claims service has earned top honors in the Big I Michigan surveys and consistently delivers industry leading NPS Scores. Although our greatest differentiator is our focus on our relationships within the independent agencies we serve, as our sole distribution channel. Fremont listens to their independent agents, and has an active agents Advisory Council, which has shaped their success as a company.

Outlook for the Company's Future:

In late 2021, Fremont expanded a limited commercial distribution into the State of Wisconsin with the following products: Commercial Package, Commercial Auto, and Commercial Umbrella. With the Workers Compensation line targeted for release in early 2024, we will look to ramp up our distribution by region, as we round out our commercial product offering. Our intent is to create the same franchise value as we have in our state of domicile. We look forward to supporting and developing This Great State of Wisconsin.

The Central Insurance Companies are comprised of Central Mutual Insurance Company and All America Insurance Company.

Company Name: Western National Insurance Group

Location of Company: Headquartered in Edina, Minnesota

Date Company Was Founded: Founded in 1901 as a direct-writing fire insurer for Minnesota's creameries and cheese factories.

Current Officers: Rick Long, President and Chief Executive Officer

Product Company Specializes In: Property-and-casualty insurance solutions tailored to fit the unique coverage needs of our customers, individuals, families, and businesses all over the Midwestern, Northwestern, and Southwestern United States.

Outlook for the Company's Future: Western National is poised for a prosperous

future and continued growth fueled by initiatives built around People, Product, and Performance. Key items of note include the launch of new Home products and other personal lines products; recruiting top customer-experienceoriented talent; optimizing technology systems for enhanced performance and security; and achieving continued growth and financial stability as recognized by both A.M. Best (A+ Superior rating) and the Ward’s 50. In the past year, Western National Insurance Group reached $933 million in policyholder surplus, was named a 2023 Top 200 Workplace in Minnesota, and received recognition once again among Ward’s Top 50 Benchmark Group of top-performing U.S. property-and-casualty companies (for the 15th consecutive year). In addition to these accolades, a strong business plan and the continued hard work of employees and agency partners resulted in growth of the Group’s assets to $2.32 billion. Combined with the company’s ongoing commitment to individual-risk underwriting and to prompt and fair claims service, these efforts have Western National on track for a successful 2023 and beyond.

HOW DONALD MILLER'S STORYBRAND CAN HELP INDEPENDENT AGENTS STAND OUT AND THRIVE

I’ve often heard that independent insurance agents don’t do a good job of telling their story. The story of an independent insurance agency and its employees are rooted in tradition and values; working hard to serve their community. Independent agents have such a compelling story that were they able to routinely articulate it to their customers and prospects, more people would simply renew and others would want to place their insurance with them and even come to work for them.

As I mentioned in last month’s magazine, this article is part two of a series. Previously, I shared the story of the IIAW using the seven elements of great storytelling, as outlined in Donald Miller’s book, “Building a StoryBrand”. In this month’s article, I’m dissecting those storytelling elements so you can put Miller’s techniques to use to clarify your agency’s story to better resonate with your customers and to grow your agency.

In the highly competitive world of insurance, independent insurance agents face numerous challenges when it comes to standing out, connecting with their audience and ultimately growing their business. One effective approach that can help independent agents thrive in a crowded marketplace is Donald Miller's StoryBrand framework. This powerful storytelling method empowers businesses, including independent insurance agents, to communicate their value proposition clearly, engage with their customers and achieve meaningful results.

1. Clarifying Your Message

The StoryBrand framework revolves around the idea that successful communication begins with a clear and compelling message. Many independent insurance agents struggle to convey their unique value proposition, leading to confusion and disinterest among potential clients. With StoryBrand, agents learn to distill their message down to its core elements, ensuring it is concise, memorable and impactful.

By identifying the specific problems an agency solves, the solutions they offer and the transformation clients can expect, independent insurance agents can create a narrative that resonates with their target audience. This clarity enables agents to cut through the noise and engage customers more effectively.

2. Focusing on Customer Needs

In the StoryBrand approach, the customer is the hero, not the insurance agent. By shifting the narrative focus to the customer's needs, fears and desires, independent insurance agents can forge a deeper emotional connection with potential clients. This customer-centric approach demonstrates empathy and shows that the agent understands the challenges their clients face and are there for them when they are needed most. Your customers are the heroes of their own stories, and your role is to assist and guide them on their insurance journey. Position your agency as a reliable and knowledgeable advisor that helps clients navigate through the complexities of insurance.

StoryBrand encourages agents to address their clients' pain points directly and position themselves as the guide that can lead clients to a better, safer and more secure future. This alignment builds trust and confidence, making potential clients more likely to choose the agent's services over that of their competition.

3. Building a Compelling Brand Story

Storytelling is a fundamental aspect of the human experience and great stories have the power to captivate and inspire. Independent insurance agents can leverage the power of storytelling by crafting a compelling brand story using the StoryBrand framework. Every agency has a unique story that sets them apart from competitors. Share your agency's history, values and mission in a way that resonates with your target audience.

By sharing relatable stories of how insurance has positively impacted their clients' lives, agents can create an emotional connection with their audience. Whether it's a heartwarming tale of financial recovery after a disaster or a testimonial of how insurance provided peace of mind during difficult times, these stories can build trust and credibility.

4. Enhancing Marketing and Sales Materials

The StoryBrand framework can greatly improve the effectiveness of marketing and sales materials for independent insurance agents. Whether it's a website, brochure, email campaign, or social media post, StoryBrand principles ensure that every piece of content is optimized for engaging potential clients and guiding them through the sales funnel. Incorporate visual elements into your marketing materials that reinforce your brand's message. Use images, videos and graphics that evoke emotions and tell a story about your agency and the value you bring to your customers.

By employing clear calls-to-action, simple messaging and a focus on benefits rather than features, agents can create marketing materials that inspire action and conversions. Additionally, StoryBrand provides guidance on creating visually appealing designs that complement the messaging and enhance the overall customer experience.

5. Standing Out in a Crowded Market

In the highly competitive insurance industry, it's essential for independent agents to find ways to differentiate themselves from their competitors. The StoryBrand framework equips agents with the tools to create a unique and memorable brand that stands out in a crowded marketplace. Social proof is a powerful tool in building trust and credibility.

Showcase testimonials, reviews and case studies from satisfied customers on your website and social media platforms. Highlighting positive experiences from real clients will boost confidence in your agency.

By honing their message, clarifying their value proposition and effectively communicating their story, independent insurance agents can position themselves as the go-to experts in their niche. When potential clients understand the benefits of working with a particular agent clearly, they are more likely to choose them over other options. Continuously monitor the effectiveness of your StoryBrand strategy. Analyze website traffic, conversion rates and customer feedback to identify areas for improvement. Adapt your messaging and tactics as needed to ensure your agency stays relevant and resonates with your target audience.

In the modern business environment, storytelling is a powerful tool that can make the difference between success and obscurity. For independent insurance agents seeking to thrive in a competitive market, Donald Miller's StoryBrand framework offers a valuable approach to clarifying their message, connecting with customers on a deeper level and ultimately growing their business. By shifting your marketing focus to the customer and utilizing the art of storytelling, independent insurance agents can create a compelling brand story that resonates with their audience and drives business growth. Embracing the StoryBrand framework can lead to a transformational journey for insurance agents and their clients alike.

> Matt Banaszynski, CEO, IIAW

Matt’s Mixology

Spiked Lemonade

Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups sugar

• 5 cups water, divided

• 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

• 1 3/4 cups lemon juice

• 1 cup light rum or vodka

• 6 to 8 cups ice cubes

Recipe Courtesy of tasteofhome.com

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, 1 cup water and lemon zest. Cook and stir over medium heat until sugar is dissolved, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and remaining water. Pour in a 2-qt. pitcher; refrigerate until chilled and then serve!

BUILDING YOUR OWN STORYBRAND

HOW TO SUCCEED IN A HARD MARKET

Join us for an afternoon of learning, hosted by the IIAW Emerging Leaders. Eric Kuhen from MarshBerry will guide us through a series of sessions to help improve your strategies and skills in a hard market. You’ll learn how to better communicate your value in a hard market, improve your strategy for growing organically, boost your internal culture and more! Drinks and apps will follow the presentation from 5 to 6:30 p.m. This event is open to everyone.

WHEN: 1 P.M. TO 5 P.M. (HAPPY HOUR TO FOLLOW)

NOVEMBER 2, 2023

WHERE: PARK HOTELTOP OF THE PARK ROOM (8TH FLOOR)

22 S CARROLL ST. MADISON, WI 53703

COST: $25 FOR IIAW MEMBERS ($149 NON-MEMBERS)

FEATURED SESSIONS:

HOW TO COMMUNICATE YOUR VALUE IN A HARD MARKET

Eric Kuhen, MarshBerry, will share the language and strategy you need to communicate and grow, how to understand the importance of an association or network partner to achieve growth goals and create a strategy and succession plan for your firm to move forward in the current market.

STRATEGY FOR GROWING ORGANICALLY

This session discusses the keys to creating a vision and setting goals that are challenging but attainable, how to develop strategies for objective achievement and how innovation & competitive differentiation are the keys to profitable development.

REGISTER NOW: IIAW.COM/EVENT/MARSHBERRY

KEYS TO ASSESSING YOUR SALES CULTURE

You’ll understand how a sales culture assessment can provide perspective on the inner workings of your agency, the four focal points of sales culture assessment and how to use the results to drive change. Attendees will have access to a complimentary Sales Culture assessment for their agency.

TRUSTED CHOICE LAUNCHES HARD MARKET TOOLKIT TO HELP AGENCIES NAVIGATE THIS MARKET

After decades of low premiums and abundant capacity, we are in the midst of a hard insurance market.

But what exactly does that mean? A hard market is defined by the Insurance Risk Management Institute as “the upswing in the insurance market cycle, when premiums increase, coverage terms are restricted, and capacity for most types of insurance decreases.”

Or to put it simply, insurance costs a lot more for our clients and is harder to find. Although insurance markets are cyclical, every hard or soft market is different. Each line of business is affected differently by the market’s conditions.

Trusted Choice has released a Hard Market Toolkit aimed to provide resources to help you streamline a plan, communicate effectively, handle tough questions, and ultimately retain clients in a hard market.

During these challenging times, independent insurance agents are more important than ever. Agents can prove their value to their clients and improve retention through consistent and thorough customer communication.

This should include telling customers why their premiums are rising and what they should expect at renewal time and explaining coverage changes or restrictions that may impact their exposure.

This Trusted Choice® Hard Market Toolkit provides resources agents can use to successfully navigate the current market conditions.

Included in this toolkit are:

1. Overview of Market Conditions

2. Expert Advice for Surviving a Hard Market from Savvy Independent Agents

3. Talking Points for Clients

4. Client Email Templates

5. Frequently Asked Questions from Clients

6. A General Communication Timeline to Keep Your Agency on Track

7. Remarketing Standards Document (Fill-in Template)

8. Personal Lines and Commercial Lines

Renewal Forms

9. Creative to Help Your Agency Stand Out (Customizable Video’s and Graphics)

Get the toolkit now at trustedchoice.independentagent.com/ hard-market

REVIEWING CONTRACT LANGUAGE: TIME WELL SPENT

In the insurance industry, contracts are everywhere. Whether between a carrier and an agency, an agency and tech solution provider, or a third party and an agency or carrier, there is no escaping the importance of reviewing contract language. Contract language often carries high importance in various legal, business, and personal contexts. Contracts are legally binding agreements that outline the rights, obligations, and responsibilities of the parties involved. The language used in contracts determines the clarity, enforceability, and protection of the parties' interests. Here are some key reasons why reviewing contract language is crucial:

**Clarity and Understanding**: Contracts must be written in clear and unambiguous language to ensure that all parties involved fully understand their rights and obligations. Ambiguous or vague terms can lead to disputes and misunderstandings down the road.

**Enforceability**: A well-drafted contract increases the chances of enforceability in a court of law. Courts generally interpret contracts based on their written language, so a clear and comprehensive contract language is essential for protecting parties' interests and ensuring the contract is legally binding.

**Mitigating Risks**: Thoroughly reviewing contract language allows parties to identify and address potential risks and liabilities. By including appropriate clauses and provisions, parties can protect themselves from unfavorable circumstances and minimize potential losses.

**Compliance and Legal Requirements**: Contract language should align with relevant laws and regulations governing the subject matter. Reviewing contracts ensures they meet legal requirements, preventing potential legal challenges or invalidation.

**Negotiation and Bargaining Power**: Reviewing contract language provides an opportunity for negotiation and clarification of terms before finalizing the agreement. Parties can discuss and modify the language to ensure fairness and balance in their respective positions.

**Avoiding Unintended Consequences**: Minor differences in language can have significant consequences. By carefully reviewing the contract, parties can catch potential pitfalls and unintended

outcomes that may not be evident at first glance.

**Preserving Relationships**: Contracts often involve ongoing business relationships. A well-drafted contract with clear language can help maintain trust and cooperation between parties throughout the duration of the agreement.

**Financial Implications**: Contracts often involve financial commitments. Reviewing the language helps identify payment terms, deadlines, and penalties for non-compliance, ensuring that all financial aspects are clearly defined.

**Scope and Deliverables**: For projects or servicebased contracts, reviewing the language helps to define the scope of work and deliverables. This avoids misunderstandings regarding what is expected from each party.

**Preventing Litigation**: Properly drafted contracts can prevent disputes and reduce the likelihood of costly litigation. When the terms are explicit and comprehensive, there is less room for disagreements between the parties.

If you are reviewing a contract and find terms and conditions that may seem unfavorable, do not be afraid to ask for alternate language, removal of the language or additional clarification in writing. Pay particular attention to hold harmless language as well as conditions that may lock you into the contract for an extended period of time.

Reviewing contract language is vital for ensuring that contracts accurately reflect the intentions of the parties, protect their interests, and reduce the risk of future conflicts. It is a critical step in the contract process and should not be overlooked or rushed. Legal advice or professional assistance is often sought to ensure that contracts are well-drafted and aligned with the parties' intentions and the law. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your IIAW staff if you have questions or are looking for guidance on reviewing a contract for your organization.

> Mallory Cornell, Vice President, IIAW

In 1919, A group of Pennsylvania farmers founded Penn National Insurance to provide affordable workers’ compensation insurance.

Today, Penn National Insurance sells property-casualty insurance in 11 states by partnering with more than 1,200 independent agency operations. In 2012, we affiliated with Wisconsin-based, Partners Mutual Insurance Company. As one company, we bring the personal attention and local focus of a regional carrier, along with the quality of products and ser vices of national carriers.

Interested in partnering with a thriving insurance carrier with superior customer experience? We are looking for select commercial-lines agencies in Wisconsin.

Contact: Vicki Lentz 262-432-3420

vlentz@pnat.com

Contact: Clayton Zogata 715-383-5454

czogata@pnat.com

• Strong financial performance and A.M. Best Financial Strength Rating of A-

• Expanded Commercial Lines products and services with competitive pricing and comprehensive coverages to help our agents grow profitably

• Comprehensive Personal Lines product offerings, including Homeowners Equipment Breakdown and additional protection plans

• State-of-the-art quoting, processing and self-service tools, making it easier and faster to meet your customers’ needs

• Local, experienced underwriting, claims and management staff

THE POWER OF GOOD GRAPHIC DESIGN

In today’s competitive business landscape, standing out from the crowd is crucial for independent insurance agencies. While excellent customer service and comprehensive offerings are essential, the visual representation of your agency can make a significant impact on your success. This is where the importance of good graphic design comes into play. Effective design can elevate your agency’s brand, attract new customers and communicate your message with professionalism and clarity.

Building a Strong Brand Identity

Graphic design is more than just creating visually appealing materials; it is about crafting a unique brand identity that reflects the values and personality of your agency. A well-designed logo, for instance, serves as the face of your business and helps customers recognize and remember your agency amidst the sea of competitors. By incorporating strategic design elements across various marketing collateral, from business cards to brochures, you establish a consistent and memorable brand image that resonates with your target audience.

Attracting and Engaging Customers

In a world saturated with information, capturing the attention of potential customers is no easy task. Effective graphic design can help your agency cut through the noise and create a lasting impression. Professionally designed flyers, brochures and advertisements not only catch the eye but also convey your agency’s message in a visually appealing and easily digestible manner. Wellcrafted visuals, combined with compelling copy, can engage your audience, increase interest in your services and ultimately, drive more business your way.

Enhancing Professionalism and Trust

In the insurance industry, trust is paramount. Customers need to feel confident that their insurance needs are in capable hands. Good graphic design plays a crucial role in establishing and reinforcing this trust. Clean and professional designs convey a sense of reliability and expertise.

By investing in quality design, you demonstrate your commitment to professionalism, attention to detail and overall customer experience. This visual credibility can significantly impact your agency’s reputation and set you apart as a trusted choice.

Simplifying Complex Information

Insurance can be a complex topic, often filled with intricate details and industry-specific jargon. Graphic design provides an opportunity to simplify and communicate these concepts effectively. By using visual aids such as infographics, charts and illustrations, you can break down complex information into easily understandable and visually engaging formats. This not only helps educate your customers but also positions your agency as a knowledgeable resource they can rely on.

In today’s visually driven world, good graphic design is a powerful tool for independent insurance agencies to differentiate themselves, attract customers and build trust. By investing in quality design, you create a strong brand identity, engage and inform your audience and elevate the professionalism of your agency. We understand that graphic design can feel overwhelming or unfamiliar to many agency owners. However, the IIAW is here to support you. First, IIAW members have access to marketing resources. They provide a library of ready-to-share social media graphics, ads that can be customized with your logo and more. In addition, the IIAW offers Graphic Design Services for your agency. Our services are best fit for agencies lacking a graphic designer on staff or agencies looking for additional design knowledge and support. We’ll design business papers, flyers, brochures, digital ads, social media graphics, print ads, banners and other custom projects. If you’re interested in learning more, feel free to reach out to the IIAW Marketing & Communication Coordinator, Kaylyn Staudt at kaylyn@iiaw.com or by phone at 608-210-2977.

> Kaylyn Staudt Marketing & Communications Coordinator, IIAW

GRAPHIC DESIGN SERVICES FOR YOUR AGENCY

Who Is Best Fit For Our Services

Our services are best fit for agencies lacking a graphic designer on staff or agencies looking for additional design knowledge and support.

About Our Designer

As an experienced graphic designer, Kaylyn is the point-of-contact for the IIAW’s Graphic Design Services. Kaylyn has a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism as well years of print and digital marketing experience. She is our in-house designer and she has also worked with other state associations on their graphic design projects.

offers a helping hand.

At Western National Insurance, nice is what’s guided us for over 100 years. And we’re just getting started.

Western National Insurance. The power of nice.

www.wnins.com

E&O RISK MANAGEMENT: TOP 10 WORDS AND PHRASES TO AVOID ON YOUR WEBSITE

If you ever find yourself in the unfortunate situation of an E&O lawsuit, one of the first actions the opposing attorney takes is obtaining screenshots of your agency website. Their goal is to show the jury that you are increasing your standard of care or creating promises based on the language you use on your website. According to Swiss Re data, 1 in 7 agents report a potential E&O claim each year. A seemingly innocent statement about your services could be exactly what an attorney needs to help their client win their case against you. Here are the top ten most common words, phrases and issues found on agency websites that can increase their standard of care.

• Missing Disclaimer on Quote or Contact Forms

Solution: Add disclaimer – contact the IIAW for full disclaimer (evan@iiaw.com).

• “Best Coverage”

Solution: Change the sentence this is included in to express that “We can help you find coverage that matches your described needs.”

• “Expert” or “Expertise”

Solution: Replace word with “experienced”

• Superlatives such as “All”, “Will”, “Always”, etc.

Solution: Delete superlative words.

• “We specialize in…”

Solution: Replace with “We have experience in/with…”

• “Peace of Mind”

Solution: Delete phrase/sentence

• “Protect”

Solution: Replace with “help protect”

• “We work for you!”

Solution: Delete sentence or replace with “We work with you to help find coverage from one of the many carriers we represent.”

• “Comprehensive”

Solution: Delete the word “Comprehensive” (unless used to describe a type of auto insurance)

• Disclaimer on Blog Posts

Solution: Add disclaimer – contact the IIAW for full disclaimer (evan@iiaw.com).

If you have any questions about what language to use or what language to avoid, I’d be more than happy to help answer them. You can reach me at evan@iiaw.com or by phone at 608-2564429. Your IIAW membership gives you access to a team of E&O risk management professionals to help you and your agency.

> Evan Leitch, Agency Solutions Advisor, IIAW

Big Picture

DEBUNK CUSTOMERS' MOST COMMON FLOOD MYTHS TO AVOID E&O CLAIMS

Hurricane season is quickly approaching, which brings about thoughts of high winds, storm surges and flooding. However, flooding is not confined to hurricanes. Flooding often happens in the Midwest with melting snow and spring rains. And, of course, there was the historic flooding seen in California earlier this year. In fact, everyone is at risk of suffering a flood loss. Everyone.

The general public shares a number of misconceptions about flood coverage, which affects your ability to sell a flood policy. Here are six of the most common:

1) My property is not in a flood zone, so I don't need—or can't purchase—flood insurance. Some people misinterpret their mortgage company's decision not to require flood coverage to mean that their property is not in a flood zone. The truth is that virtually all property is in a flood zone. The only difference is that someone who is in a low-risk flood zone will be able to purchase flood coverage at a cheaper rate than someone in a medium- or high-risk flood zone, which makes the decision to purchase flood coverage even more appealing.

2) My property is not on a body of water, so I don't qualify for flood insurance. Flood insurance is available to anyone living in one of the 23,000 participating NFIP (National Flood Insurance Program) communities.

3) My property policy covers flood risk. Neither homeowner nor business peril policies cover flooding. While you may purchase sewer backup coverage, that is not the same thing as flood coverage.

4) I can't buy flood coverage because my property flooded in the past. Previously flooded properties can be covered under the NFIP program.

5) If my property floods, federal disaster assistance will pay for my damage. Federal disaster assistance is only available if your property is located in a federal disaster area. Less than half of flooding events qualify as federal disasters. Furthermore, federal disaster assistance does not make homeowners whole; it is designed as a stop-gap while they find permanent housing. Property owners will still have to pay to make repairs to their property.

6) Flood coverage does not cover basements. Flood coverage does not apply to basement improvements or most contents contained in the basement. However, it does cover structural elements of the home and essential

equipment, such as pumps, tanks, electric panels, furnace, air conditioner, water heater, heat pump, unpainted drywall on walls and ceilings, insulation, staircase, and foundation elements. Further, flood contents coverage would cover a washer and dryer, freezers, and the food in them.

There are some basic tips to prevent or defend against a flood-based errors & omissions claim. One common aspect of claims is when customers are surprised that their flood coverage is only actual cash value (ACV) when their homeowners policy is replacement cost value (RCV). Therefore, it is important to explain whether the flood coverage will be ACV or RCV, so the customer's expectations are managed prior to a loss.

Another issue is policy limits. Currently, the highest policy limits available to homeowners under the NFIP are $250,000 on the building and $100,000 on the contents. For residential structures of five or more units, the maximum limit is $500,000 on the building and $100,000 on the contents. For a business, the maximum is $500,000 on the building and $500,000 on the contents. If you have a customer who purchases the maximum NFIP limits, you should also offer excess flood coverage. There are private insurers who offer excess flood coverage, which sits over the NFIP limits.

As always, all coverage offers should be made in writing and that offer must be signed off by the customer. Remember, selling your customers more coverage protects them from uncovered losses and protects you from an E&O claim.

This article is intended to be used for general informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular purpose. Swiss Re shall not be held responsible in any way for, and specifically disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained or referenced in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is not intended to constitute and should not be considered legal, accounting or professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of the Swiss Re Group (“Swiss Re") and/or its subsidiaries and/or management and/or shareholders.

This article was originally featured on iamagazine.com in July 2023.

> Jim Redeker, Vice President & Claims Manager, Swiss Re Corporate Solutions

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The worst brings out our best.®

Post pandemic the world of hiring continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of work. The pandemic accelerated many of the trends that were already underway, and new ones are emerging as well. Here are six key trends in hiring that we can expect to see this year.

1. Remote work is here to stay.

The pandemic has forced many companies to adopt remote work, and they have discovered that it can be highly effective. As a result, remote work is likely to become a permanent feature of many companies’ hiring strategies. This means that companies will be looking for candidates who have experience working remotely and are comfortable with virtual communication tools.

2. Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) will be a top priority.

As companies continue to focus on DEI, they will be looking for ways to ensure that their hiring practices are inclusive and equitable. This includes everything from removing bias from job descriptions to ensuring that interview panels are diverse.

3. Skills-based hiring will become more prevalent.

As the pace of change continues to accelerate, companies are increasingly looking for candidates who have the skills they need to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world. This means that traditional qualifications, such as degrees, will become less important, and companies will focus more on assessing candidates’ skills and competencies.

6 HIRING TRENDS FOR 2023

4.AI and automation will play a bigger role in hiring.

AI and automation are already being used to screen resumes and conduct initial interviews, and this trend is likely to continue in 2023. Companies will be looking for ways to streamline their hiring processes and reduce bias, and AI and automation can help with both.

5. Employee experience will be a key differentiator.

As the job market becomes more competitive, companies will need to differentiate themselves by providing a great employee experience. This means everything from offering competitive compensation and benefits to creating a positive and supportive work environment. Companies that prioritize employee experience will be more successful in attracting and retaining top talent.

6. Upskilling and reskilling will be a priority.

As technology continues to evolve, the skills that companies need are also changing. In 2023, companies will be looking for ways to upskill and reskill their existing employees to keep pace with these changes. This means investing in training programs and providing opportunities for employees to learn and grow.

The hiring landscape is evolving rapidly, and companies that want to succeed in 2023 an beyond will need to stay ahead of these trends. By focusing on remote work, DEI, skills-based hiring, AI and automation, employee experience, and upskilling and reskilling, companies can attract and retain top talent and build a strong workforce for the future.

KEEPING UP WITH CHANGING TECHNOLOGY INCREASES CYBER RISK FOR RESTAURANTS

The restaurant industry is back! Well, almost. About three in four restaurant owners say business conditions are already close to pre-pandemic normal and their focus is on sustaining growth in the coming year, according to the National Restaurant Association.

The industry is projected to reach sales of $993 billion in 2023 and with an expected addition of 500,000 new jobs, total employment is expected to reach 15.5 million, according to the National Restaurant Association. Additionally, research shows that restaurant traffic levels have returned to near pre-pandemic levels and restaurant owners are feeling optimistic about the future, according to the “Agency Forward Restaurant Survey" by Nationwide.

But the industry is not the same as it was before the pandemic forced restaurant owners to alter operations and quickly adopt technology as a life raft. As the restaurant industry also deals with inflation and supply-chain delays, the technology that kept many businesses afloat is now bringing equal concern.

“The restaurant market has changed a lot in the last three or four years with much more emphasis on takeout and delivery by third-party providers, such as DoorDash and Uber Eats," says Eric Coleman, senior vice president of small commercial, Nationwide. “People are increasingly coming back to restaurants as time goes by—it wasn't the thing to do in the past to get takeout or have it delivered from a nicer restaurant—that was more of a thing you did with pizza. Now it's a totally different world."

To survive during the coronavirus pandemic, many restaurants had to develop an online presence, add delivery, take orders over the phone and via an app, handle payments online or via a device. The byproduct? Cyber vulnerabilities.

Increased reliance on mobile ordering and payments, QR code menus and Wi-Fi access for customers have opened the doors for many restaurants to become targets of bad actors. “Almost a fifth of respondents to the Nationwide survey said that the reliance on technology is a primary risk in their restaurant today," Coleman says. “And even going beyond ransomware, social media and online reviews are also having an effect—positive and negative—on business owners."

Twenty-five percent of restaurant decision makers said a poor social media review was the biggest risk to their business, according to Nationwide. However, any public negativity associated with a cyberattack can be catastrophic.

“The reputational and financial impacts of a cyberattack can be significant and even result in putting the restaurant out of business," says William King, director, business owner policy underwriting, Progressive Insurance. “Ensuring the restaurant has appropriate insurance and a solid plan for handling cyberattacks, especially when customer information is involved, is a critical business practice." Yet, the use of technology within the restaurant industry continues to be omnipresent. “Many of these technologies are important for the business's success and add significant efficiency to their operations, as well as enable growth," King says. “Restaurants transact much of their business via credit cards, both with their customers and with their suppliers and vendors. This means they store a high volume of personally identifiable information."

The risks, both financially and to their reputation, are high. For restaurants, dealing with the security of debit and credit cards from hundreds of different financial institutions in the course of their daily operations can be a key area of vulnerability.

And it's not just the small operations that are vulnerable. In 2015 and 2016, more than 1,000 Wendy's franchises suffered a cyberattack, which eventually led to a classaction lawsuit by financial institutions alleging that Wendy's failed to safeguard customer payment card information and failed to provide notice that payment card information had been compromised.

“Data breaches will typically require the restaurant to notify their customers and hire a forensics firm to resolve the issue. These breaches can become very costly to fix," King says. “On top of the handling and fixing costs, restaurants could be forced to slow or halt operations, resulting in loss of income." For many small businesses, this could mean the end of operations.

This article was originally published on independentagent.com in June 2023.

> Olivia Overman IA Content Editor

Filling

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GOOD RIDDANCE TO WISCONSIN'S PERSONAL PROPERTY TAX

Businesses across Wisconsin are chalking up a significant victory with the recent enactment of 2023 Wisconsin Act 12 (bit.ly/Aug23GovAffairs), a local government revenue reform bill which also included language that finally repeals Wisconsin’s archaic business personal property tax starting with the January 2024 assessment. Repealing the personal property tax has been a top legislative priority for the IIAW and is a major legislative victory overall for Wisconsin’s business community after years of hard-fought lobbying from a broad coalition of business groups.

The personal property tax is one of Wisconsin’s oldest taxes dating back to around the time of statehood in the mid-1800s when there wasn't an income or sales tax to fund the government. Government funding came primarily from property taxes — both from actual land and buildings, but also from personal property like jewelry, furniture, and livestock. The personal property tax is assessed on all tangible personal property owned by businesses, including furniture, inventory, machinery, equipment, and fixtures. The tax is assessed on the value of the property and the rate varies depending on the type of property and the municipality. However, over the course of many decades the state legislature has granted more exemptions from the tax than items that are subjected to the tax generating far less revenue than the cost and burden to administer it. The tax has sometimes been referred to as the Swiss cheese of taxes. The increased number of exemptions also created much confusion, complexity and placed an unfair compliance burden, particularly

on smaller sized businesses. The reporting requirements and recordkeeping of the tax every year had become a major thorn in the side for countless businesses, but also for local units of government all across the state who administer and collect the tax nonuniformly. Eliminating the personal property tax will simplify compliance for businesses throughout the state. They will no longer have to file that annual personal property tax report and they will no longer have to worry about the assessment of their personal property. Any savings realized from the repeal of the tax will enable businesses to reinvest those dollars back into their business and their workforce.

The cost of repealing the personal property tax is approximately $174 million annually to local governments which the legislature and Governor approved additional funding in the recently enacted biennial state budget in the form of state aid payments to make up for the loss of revenue. Other Midwestern states including Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois and Michigan have already repealed their own personal property tax laws. Every business will benefit from the elimination of the personal property tax.

Thank you to Governor Evers, Department of Revenue Secretary Peter Barca, and members of the state Legislature for coming together and doing away with the personal property tax once and for all. Good riddance and congratulations to all IIAW members that will no longer be burdened with it.

In other legislative news…Governor Evers signed the $98.7 billion two-year state budget bill on July 5th following several months of deliberations and changes by the legislature’s Joint Finance Committee (JFC) to his original budget proposal introduced back in February. Evers exercised his broad partial line item veto authority with issuing 51 vetoes. The most significant was his veto to reduce the $3.5 billion income tax package that Republicans wanted down to a $175 million cut targeting lower incomes over the next two years. Also included in the budget of note to the industry was the inclusion of one full-time position at the Insurance Department that will be dedicated to combating insurance fraud. Here is the language passed in the budget bill on the creation of this new position:

FRAUDULENT INSURANCE ACTS

Provide 1.0 position for investigation of fraudulent insurance acts, beginning in 2023-24, and provide $107,400 in 2023-24 and $138,700 in 2024-25 to support the position.

Establish a prohibition against fraudulent insurance acts, within current law statutory section related to OCI's general powers and duties. Specify, for the purposes of this provision, that a fraudulent insurance act includes knowingly presenting a false or fraudulent claim for payment of a loss or benefit or knowingly presenting false information in an application for insurance. Specify that, if based on an investigation, it has a reasonable basis to believe that a violation of laws involving theft, forgery, fraudulent writings, fraudulent data alteration, fraudulent insurance and employee benefit program claims, fraudulent destruction of certain writings, or any other criminal law has occurred, OCI may refer the results of an investigation to the Department of Justice or to the district attorney of the county in which the alleged violation occurred for prosecution.

> Misha Lee IIAW Lobbyist

Members in the News

WEST BEND AGAIN MAKES WARD'S 50 LIST OF TOP PERFORMERS

serve our policyholders while achieving long-term growth and financial stability.”

Ward Group is a leader in the insurance industry as a provider of benchmarking and best practices services. Annually, they conduct a comprehensive analysis of nearly 3,000 property-casualty insurance companies in the United States to identify the top performers.

Financial benchmarks include:

• Five Year Average Return on Average Equity

• Five Year Average Return on Average Assets

• Five Year Average Return on Total Revenue

• Five Year Growth in Revenue

• Five Year Growth in Surplus

• Five Year Average Combined Ratio

West Bend, WI (6/29/23) - West Bend Mutual Insurance Company has placed in the coveted Ward's 50 group of top-performing companies for 2023. The recently released list includes the best industry performers of nearly 3,000 U.S.-domiciled property-casualty insurance companies and nearly 700 life-health insurance companies. West Bend is recognized for its outstanding financial results in the areas of safety, consistency, and performance over five years (2018-2022). It is the tenth consecutive year the company has been included.

The Ward Group's methodology evaluates key safety and consistency measurements and performance tests. Ward's 50 identifies companies that pass financial stability requirements and measure their ability to grow while maintaining strong capital positions and underwriting results. To be awarded the designation, companies must pass minimum thresholds of performance.

"Our consistent appearance on Ward's 50 list is a testament to our associates for their outstanding performance and independent agents who represent West Bend," stated West Bend's President, Rob Jacques. "We're honored to again join the ranks of other top property and casualty insurers in the nation."

SECURA INSURANCE NAMED A TOP 50 CARRIER BY WARD GROUP FOR 10TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

In addition to being named to Ward’s Top 50, SECURA has an A (Excellent) rating from AM Best, which affirms its solid financial results and ability to pay claims. SECURA is also certified as a Great Place to Work based on associate feedback about the company’s workplace culture, and was ranked number 14 on the Fortune Best Workplaces in Financial Services & Insurance for small and medium companies, number 78 on the Fortune Best Medium Workplaces, and number 66 on Fortune Best Workplaces for Millennials for small and medium companies.

ABOUT SECURA INSURANCE

SECURA Insurance, headquartered in Neenah, Wis., is a regional group of property-casualty insurance companies operating in 13 states. Approximately 550 independent insurance agencies represent the group, which provides a broad range of competitive commercial, personal, farm, nonprofit, and special events products. SECURA Insurance is known for providing exceptional service to its agents and policyholders since 1900, and is rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best for its excellent ability to meet policyholder obligations. It is a Ward’s Top 50 company for outstanding results in financial performance and consistency over a fiveyear period, and it is a certified Great Place to Work. Visit www.secura.net to learn more.

ACUITY NAMED A TOP PERFORMER BY WARD GROUP FOR 24TH STRAIGHT YEAR

Neenah, WI (7/11/23) - SECURA Insurance has been acknowledged as one of the top 50 property and casualty insurance companies once again by Ward Group, based on its outstanding performance over a five-year duration (2018-2022). This marks the company's 10th consecutive year of being honored on this prestigious list, which highlights its exceptional financial strength.

“Earning a spot on Ward’s 50 is always an honor,” said Garth Wicinsky, SECURA President & CEO. “Our inclusion on this list for the past 10 years is a reflection of our associates and independent agents working together to

Sheboygan, WI (7/14/23) - Acuity has been named to the 2023 Ward’s 50 list of top-performing property-casualty companies, putting the company in the top 2 percent of insurers nationwide. Acuity has earned a spot on the Ward’s 50 every year since 2000, making the company one of only four insurers, and the only regional carrier, to be named to the list for 24 consecutive years. Ward Group is the leading provider of benchmarking and best practices studies for insurance companies.

“We recognize Acuity for outstanding financial results in the areas of safety, consistency, and performance over a five-year period,” said Jeff Rieder, partner and head of Ward Group. “In selecting the Ward’s 50, we analyze the financial performance of nearly 2,900 property-casualty insurance companies, identifying the 50 companies that pass financial stability requirements and demonstrate the ability to grow while maintaining strong capital positions and underwriting results.”

“Acuity’s continued recognition by Ward Group as a top performer is something we can all be proud of,” said Melissa Winter, Acuity President. “We all play a part in maintaining the strength and stability that our customers, agents, and staff depend on.”

“Independent agents and Acuity have created a winning team that delivers a consistent performance that is virtually unheard of in the industry,” said Ben Salzmann, Acuity CEO. To be at the top of our game for 24 years is an incredible achievement.”

Acuity Insurance, headquartered in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, insures over 125,000 businesses, including 300,000 commercial vehicles, and nearly a half million homes and private passenger autos across 31 states. Rated A+ by AM Best and S&P, Acuity employs more than 1,600 people.

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS A- EXCELLENCE RATING FOR SOCIETY INSURANCE

our financial stability and history of profitable operating results,” said Heather Boyer, Society Insurance president & CEO. “Working closely with Society’s independent agents, we are focused on providing products and solutions to serve our policyholders.”

A.M. Best provides ratings that assess the creditworthiness of more than 16,000 insurance companies across the world. An A.M. Best rating is an informed summary opinion of a company’s ability to pay claims, debts and other obligations as they arise.

Society’s A.M. Best rating is effective June 23, 2023. For the latest rating, access www.ambest.com.

ABOUT SOCIETY INSURANCE

Headquartered in Fond du Lac, Wis., Society Insurance has been a leading niche insurance carrier since 1915. Society focuses on the small details that make a big difference to its policyholders while offering top-notch insurance coverage, service and competitive pricing to businesses in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Minnesota, Tennessee, Colorado, Georgia and Texas.

ARE YOU AN IIAW SUPPORTING COMPANY MEMBER?

Fond du Lac, WI (7/17/23) - Society Insurance recently had its overall financial strength affirmed as A- (Excellent) with Stable Outlook by international rating agency A.M. Best Rating Services.

“I’m very pleased to see our A- (Excellent) rating and Stable Outlook affirmed by A.M. Best, as it speaks to

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