Brokers have reacted coolly to a new business continuity venture offered by former Towergate group marketing director, Paul Dyer.
Dyer, who took a non-executive role with Towergate last November, said the service, Business Continuity Planning, allows brokers to buy office space in nine locations across the UK. The offices can be up and running within one working day and have hardware suitability for the main broking
systems, together with PCs, printers and other office equipment.
Dyer said: "Brokers have clear responsibilities within the FSA handbook to ensure clients are not prejudiced in the event of a disaster affecting their premises."
He added that business continuity was also a requirement under the Civil Contingencies Act.
Dyer said there had been a strong take-up from brokers, but brokers contacted by the Insurance Times said they would not be rushing to use the service. Charlie Whitfield, group marketing director with broker Layton Blackham said: "This is a novel concept, but not one we will be at the front of the queue for.
"We already have a number of locations that are all linked to the same network."
Ian Mantel, principal with Hastings-based Manor Insurance Brokers, said: "There is plenty of office space around here. I would see it as part of my business interruption cover to keep my business afloat."
