Markel Direct teams up with MGA for gig economy proposition

Markel Direct has teamed up with managing general agent (MGA) Tapoly to offer a digital insurance solution for the gig economy workforce.

A statement released yesterday (30 November 2023) said the two firms were making the move to provide protection and support to micro-businesses and freelancers in the sector facing a “significant challenge” in acquiring comprehensive insurance.

It comes at a time when the gig economy has experienced growth, with millions of individuals taking up freelancing and self-employment in recent years.

In turn, Markel and Tapoly believe its new offering would represent a multi-billion-pound industry in gross written premium (GWP).

Rob Rees, divisional director at Markel Direct, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with Tapoly in our shared commitment to meeting the unique insurance needs of gig economy professionals.

”With our combined expertise and innovative approach, we aim to revolutionise the insurance landscape, ensuring that freelancers and micro-SMEs receive the protection they deserve, all within budget.”

’Pivotal moment’

Both firms also felt that the new partnership signified a “pivotal moment” in the insurance industry’s ”ongoing quest to provide accessible, transparent and finely-tuned insurance products that meet the distinct needs of freelancers and micro-SMEs”.

Janthana Kaenprakhamroy, chief executive of Tapoly, added. “At Tapoly, we have always been driven by the vision of creating a more inclusive and accessible insurance market for freelancers and micro-SMEs.

“Our partnership with Markel Direct is a significant step toward realising this vision. Together, we aim to empower gig economy professionals with the insurance solutions they need to thrive in today’s dynamic workforce.”