PLEASANTON, CA, March 10, 2022 - IIABCal welcomes its newest Associate Member, Keystone Insurers Group, a network of high-performing independent insurance agencies.
Keystone was founded in 1983 by four independent agents, knowing that they would be stronger if they worked together. That premise is what drives the company today.
"As a network of independent insurance agencies, our industry expertise, relationships we’ve created and curated, and distribution network of the highest-performing insurance agencies are our strengths," said Margo Mackedanz, Keystone Executive Director of Network Expansion. "We have seen the most success with agencies in the $10M written premium range or above – if you are looking to grow your agency to this level, or if you’re looking for added resources to achieve your goals, then Keystone may be a fit for you."
"With Keystone, agencies retain their independence – regardless of location – while benefitting from the intellectual capital sharing of our community and national resources they can source locally to their clients. When faced with an intricate claim, organic growth, or business question, you are backed by hundreds of agents across the country to help you walk through it.
"We only align with best-in-class agencies to offer services for best-in-class clients," Mackedanz said. "Many of our agents bring collective expertise across numerous industries from main street businesses to multi-state retail franchises. This expertise, combined with our premier carrier relationships, provides an added level of service not easily found elsewhere."
Why IIABCal Matters
"IIABCal represents best-in-class agencies committed to forming valuable relationships that can help excel their growth and success," Mackedanz said. "Keystone’s mission is the same – helping you build on your independent agency’s success, and we look forward to working with you."
Important Issues Facing The Industry?
"According to the Big I 2020 Agency Universe Study, business conditions post-pandemic favor slow growth," said Curt Warner, Keystone Sales Development Director. "Agents must arm themselves with the tools they need to recalibrate and refocus their sales efforts and processes to bring in more new business.
"Operationally, attracting and retaining new, diverse talent and developing perpetuation are also of prime importance. Keystone’s core strategy centers on solutions that attack these challenges through best practices and exclusive offerings."
Biggest Opportunities For The Independent Agency System
"Multiple shifts in the industry are changing the makeup of the independent agency and the way consumers purchase insurance," said Lonnie Burks, Keystone Strategic Network Development Director.
"Keystone offers solutions that help producers create new sales strategies leveraging digital marketing strategies and utilization of KPI technologies; emerging leaders share best practices; and owners benchmark agency performance to provide clarity and direction," Burks said.
Mackedanz said there are also several new investment opportunities in the marketplace that can help owners grow through acquisition. Keystone can help provide consult for these opportunities when they arise. For more information, visit keystoneinsgrp.com. To contact the company representatives mentioned above: Margo Mackedanz at mmackedanz@keystoneinsgrp.com or 952-215-5057, Curt Warner at cwarner@keystoneinsgrp.com or 412-389-7964, and Lonnie Burks at lburks@keystoneinsgrp.com or 570-238-0334.