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"Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery" says Grant Ellis

Grant Ellis, Executive Chairman of the Network Division of Towergate and Chief Executive of Broker Network has today said that he is extremely flattered at the extent to which new "me too" networks Purple Partnership and OurNetwork have attempted to emulate the Broker Network model, but is warning brokers of the dangers of "knock-off networks".

Correspondence sent to brokers across the UK from both Purple Partnership and OurNetwork contains phraseology and terms lifted directly from Broker Network collateral, which has prompted the UK’s leading network to consult their lawyers in pursuit of a possible civil law action. Broker Network believes that this information was gained when employees from the rival networks attended recent launches of the new Broker Network proposition, Broker Network Associate.

Commenting on the offers being sold by these companies, Grant Ellis said today:

"It’s true to state in this case that you get what you pay for. In these cases, the cost to brokers is perceived to be nothing. I would therefore expect customers to get nothing in return other than distinctly average commissions and a plethora of hidden charges."

"We have concerns that these networks are simply poor copies. We credit UK insurance brokers with the intelligence to realise that if you pay for a fake Rolex, you will only get a fake Rolex."

Broker Network is also questioning the validity and relevance of testimonials used by Purple Partnership within their sales literature. Amongst the three quotes printed, one is attributed to PSP Financial Solutions Ltd. Both Bob Parkins, Managing Director of Purple Partnership and Terry Parkins, his brother, are Directors of this business.

Grant Ellis continues:

"If considering the services of these networks, you need to ask yourself, what are they actually doing to help me talk to my customers, to win new business? The answer is nothing, as there is very little or no support in business services and marketing."

"It’s quite obvious that there isn’t space for all of these networks to survive – we have already seen some come and go over the past few years. The longevity that brokers are looking for comes in the form of complete insurer and business support, without the corner cutting. Unfortunately, we all know that whilst a knock off might seem a decent, more cost effective option, fake goods never last. Buy cheap - buy twice!"

For further information, please contact:

Kelly-Ann Knight	01423 554147
Head of PR & Communications	k.knight@brokernetwork.co.uk