We are thrilled to announce that Innovation Group has achieved an incredible milestone, three major industry awards in just a few months. This is a proud moment that reflects the exceptional talent, innovation, and dedication of our teams across both the motor and property divisions.
Following our recent win of Claims Service of the Year (Motor) at the Insurance Times Claims Excellence Awards 2025 and Claims Initiative of the Year (Property) at the British Insurance Awards 2025, we have now been named Claims Service Provider at the Insurance Times Tech and Innovation Awards 2025.
In May 2025, our Third-Party Intervention team in the motor division was honoured with the prestigious Claims Service of the Year – Motor award.
In July, our groundbreaking EKS solution for subsidence claims took home the title of Claims Initiative of the Year, recognising the innovative, customer-centric approach that is transforming the property claims experience.
Now in September, the EKS solution has once again been recognised, earning us the Claims Service Provider of the Year award at the Tech and Innovation Awards. This solution represents the culmination of many years of dedication from both Richard, Allan Tew and their team. We are absolutely delighted that their creativity, resilience, and relentless commitment to delivering innovative solutions to the insurance market have been recognised with such a prestigious honour.
A special thanks to Richard Rollit and Craig Fookes, who were there on the evening to collect the award on behalf of Innovation Group, which was presented by Shaun Williamson.
The judges commented; “They are approaching the issue from a unique perspective. They’ve thoroughly evaluated how to address a serious structural and insurance challenge in a non-invasive way. It’s a truly distinctive offering.”
John Watson, Managing Director, UK Insurance commented; “To be recognised in both the property and motor spaces is a huge honour and a true testament to the passion, innovation, and hard work of our people. A huge thank you to everyone who has been a part of this journey – this achievement belongs to all of us.”
We extend our sincere thanks to the British Insurance Awards, the Insurance Times Claims Excellence Awards and Tech and Innovation Awards for these recognitions, and our warmest congratulations to all fellow winners and finalists.
We’re proud to be triple award winners and even prouder of the incredible teams that made it happen.
Media Contact:
Sarah Middleton
Marketing Manager
salesandmarketing@innovation.group
What is Greenwashing?
Greenwashing is the practice of creating a false or misleading impression about how environmentally friendly a product, service, or process really is. Companies use this marketing tactic to capitalise on the rising demand for sustainability, often exaggerating their eco-friendly claims without making meaningful changes.
In the subsidence industry, greenwashing can occur when repair methods, materials or processes are marketing as sustainable or environmentally beneficial, but in reality, they provide little to no genuine environmental advantage.
But how does this apply to the subsidence industry? Below is a real-world example:
Balancing Tree Preservation and Subsidence Claims
The Challenge: Tree Removal vs Sustainable Subsidence Solutions
In recent years, insurers have faced increasing accusations of greenwashing over the removal of mature, often protected trees to mitigate subsidence risks. Subsidence occurs when the soil beneath a building’s foundation shifts or contracts, commonly due to tree roots extracting moisture from clay-based soils.
While insurers emphasise the need for effective and cost-efficient solutions, environmental campaigners argue that widespread tree removal undermines broader sustainability commitments. The debate has sparked national attention, with protests erupting in Fareham, Cowfold, and Wivenhoe, where campaigners have fought to save mature oak trees from felling.
Protesters claim that insurers are prioritising cost savings over environmental responsibility, while insurers argue that alternative engineered stabilisation methods, such as underpinning or soil moisture management, are often prohibitively expensive and not always viable. The controversy highlights the delicate balance between environmental preservation and the practicality of subsidence claims management – a challenge that continues to shape the industry’s approach to sustainability.
The Debate: Weighing Both Sides
A recent case in Fareham highlights the complexity of balancing subsidence management and tree preservation. The local council approved the removal of a row of protected oak trees, each subject to Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs), citing concerns that rejecting the application could leave them exposed to claims exceeding £225,000.
Insurers defend their approach, stating that while they recognise the amenity value of trees and consider alternatives such as pruning, relying solely on engineered stabilisation would lead to significantly higher premiums for homeowners. They argue that tree removal remains the most cost-effective and practical solution in many cases.
However, the decision has faced strong political and public backlash. Local MP Suella Braverman criticised insurers, stating:
“Insurance companies have pressured local authorities into felling perfectly healthy trees with TPOs at the first point of contact.”
Braverman also pointed to ongoing discussions between the Association of British Insurers (ABI), Defra, and Forestry England, aimed at improving industry protocols for addressing subsidence linked to protected trees.
This case underscores the ongoing tension between insurers, policymakers, and environmental advocates.
Current Initiatives: The JMP and ABI Efforts
The Association of British Insurers (ABI) is currently reviewing the Joint Mitigation Protocol (JMP), a framework designed to standardise evidence requirements and procedures for Loss Adjusters and Local Authorities when dealing with subsidence caused by council-owned trees. While the updated JMP will establish clear evidential standards, it will not alter the legal liability of Councils, which remains rooted in their duty to abate legal nuisances caused by vegetation.
At the heart of this challenge lies a long-standing legal principle: property owners are responsible for ensuring their trees do not cause damage to neighbouring properties. If tree roots are proven to be the primary cause of subsidence, the property owner – whether a private homeowner or a local council – is legally obligated to remediate the issue, which often results in tree removal.
Balancing Environmental and Cost Considerations
Insurers argue that removing trees to stabilise a property has several advantages:
However, critics push for a more balanced approach, particularly when dealing with high-amenity trees protected by Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). They argue that insurers should explore alternative solutions before resorting to tree removal, ensuring that sustainability considerations are genuinely factored into decision-making.
Possible Solutions and the Role of Legislation
Some insurers have already adopted policies against removing ancient or veteran trees, acknowledging their environmental, ecological, and cultural significance. However, to further address greenwashing concerns while maintaining fairness and practicality, the ABI could explore the following initiatives:
Voluntary Codes of Practice – Insurers could commit to a formal industry standing that prioritises tree preservation wherever possible, particularly for protected and high-amenity trees. This would reinforce sustainable claims practices whiles ensuring insurers consider alternative mitigation methods before resorting to removal.
Legislative Change: Article 5 Certificates – A potential reform could introduce Article 5 certificates, which would provide councils with financial protection when refusing tree removal for exceptional cases. Under this system, councils could preserve significant trees without facing liability for subsequent property damage, creating a more balanced approach between subsidence risk management and environmental preservation.
Conclusion: Striking the Right Balance
The debate surrounding tree removal and subsidence highlights the complex intersection of environmental, financial, and legal considerations. A balanced approach is essential – one that safeguards both property integrity and environmental preservation.
While voluntary industry codes could provide an immediate step toward more responsible practices, long-term solutions may require legislative reform, such as the reintroduction of Article 5 certificates. This would offer councils a sustainable and equitable framework to protect significant trees without bearing the financial burden of potential property damage claims.
Ultimately, collaboration is key. Insurers, councils, and policymakers must work together to align competing priorities, ensuring that subsidence management evolves in a way that protects both homeowners and the natural environment.
In today’s evolving insurance landscape, MGAs are expected to deliver faster, smarter, and more cost-effective claims solutions, without compromising on customer experience. At Innovation Group, we understand these pressures. For over 25 years, we’ve been the trusted partner to some of the world’s leading insurers, brokers, and MGAs, providing technology-driven, people-led claims solutions that deliver real impact.
Whether its managing complex property claims or streamlining motor claims at scale, we combine deep technical expertise with advanced digital tools and an end-to-end supply chain. The result? Better outcomes for your business and your customers.
Tailored for MGAs: Built-In Agility, Backed by Data
MGAs need to operate with agility, precision, and a distinctive edge. That’s why we don’t offer off-the-shelf solutions. Instead, we align with your operational model, combining automation, analytics, and human expertise to help you deliver standout service, maintain compliance, and maximise value.
Why MGAs Choose Innovation Group:
Our omni-channel journey, from FNOL to settlement, is clear, simple and jargon-free. Customers stay informed and in control through SMS, push notifications, chatbots, and explainer videos, driving satisfaction and reducing complaints.
By reducing indemnity spend, shortening claim lifecycles, and automating admin-heavy tasks, we help you unlock savings while allowing teams to focus on what really matters most – supporting customers and controlling your spend.
Our advanced analytics and PowerBI dashboards give MGAs live visibility over performance and risk. This enables smarter underwriting, early intervention, and proactive claims and portfolio management.
Whether for Motor, Property or Liability losses, we offer true 24/7 end-to-end management of the claim for you and your customers. This provides our clients with defined ownership and true accountability for results.
Motor Claims: Digitally Driven, End-to-End Control
With more than 300,000 FNOLs handled annually, we offer 24/7 motor claims management with rapid triage, seamless intervention, and full visibility throughout. Our AI-powered chatbot accelerates third-party capture and supports our in-house repair triage, driving cost control and improving conversion.
Our digital-first ecosystem keeps customers informed throughout their journey, leveraging mobile phone Wallet technology for real-time push updates, and our Virtual Assistant to answer common queries instantly. It’s a modern claims experience that feels as effortless as it is efficient.
Through our nationwide repair network of over 200 trusted partners, we achieve market-leading conversion rates (over 80%) and drastically reduce costly non-network repairs.
This technology led solution is supplemented by exceptional technical handling for credit hire and personal injury losses by our team of experienced handlers.
Property Claims: Technical Strength Meets Total Control
We do more than manage claims – we own the process. Our fully integrated in-house property supply chain gives us complete control over delivery, quality, and cost. From drainage and reinstatement to arboriculture and underground services, we ensure consistency and speed, even during surge events.
Our Chartered Loss Adjusters and Claims Specialists support MGAs across all key property and casualty classes:
We understand the nuances of MGA portfolios and policy wordings, and we’re well-versed in London Market standards. As a Lloyds Claims administrator, we’re strategically positioned to bring even greater value to London market clients.
Transparency Through Technology: The Business Intelligence Portal
Our PowerBI-powered Business Intelligence Portal, gives clients a single, real-time view of claims performance. With interactive dashboards and deep-dive analytics, MGAs benefit from:
It’s more than just reporting it’s a strategic tool to drive sharper, faster decisions.
Technology and Talent: A Smarter Claims Ecosystem
At Innovation Group, we believe the best results come from the right balance of technology and people. We invest in intelligent systems that enhance – not replace – our team’s expertise. From automated workflows and smart risk modelling to intuitive communication tools, we empower MGAs to deliver with clarity, speed and control.
Our platforms are built to flex with the demands of your business, especially during surge events. And as our technology continues to evolve, we’re constantly finding new ways to improve efficiency, compliance and customer experience.
A Proven Partner for MGAs
MGAs need more than a service provider. They need a partner who understands their challenges, aligns with their goals, and delivers every time. Whether it’s scaling operations, improving claims economics, or elevating the customer journey, Innovation Group is the partner MGAs trust to deliver.
Let’s Talk
Ready to explore a smarter, more transparent, and more agile approach to claims? Let’s talk about how we can support your strategy, and help your business stand out in a competitive market.
Contact us today to discover how we can support your claims strategy:
Published on MGAA (Innovation Group: Redefining Claims Management for the MGA Market – MGAA)
According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), UK motor insurers paid out a record £11.7bn in claims during 2024 — a 17% increase on the previous year. The average private motor insurance claim rose by 13% to approximately £4,900, with costs peaking at £5,300 in Q4 alone. This is despite an overall drop in claims frequency being reported across the market.
In 2023, total motor claims stood at £9.9bn, already up 18% year-on-year from £8.4bn in 2022. That period also saw a 31% increase in vehicle repair costs, reaching £6.1bn, while replacement vehicle expenses rose 35% to £597m.
This sustained inflationary pressure highlights the urgent need for robust, end-to-end claims procedures, particularly in managing third-party exposures. With credit hire, repair delays, and extended off-road times driving up third-party costs, having proactive controls in place is more critical than ever.
Key procedural pillars include:
“We work closely with our partners to provide market leading solutions,” said Cath Hulme, Operations Director Motor. “We have developed a proven, results-driven proposition that delivers tangible financial benefits for both our clients and our own operations. I’m delighted to share that our strategic approach has enhanced operational efficiency, increased third-party capture rates, and improved the end-to-end claims experience.”
“In addition, our strong focus on employee engagement and culture has boosted morale, improved retention, and created a high-performance environment that supports service excellence.”
To learn more about our Innovation Group’s award-winning claims management solutions, email: salesandmarketing@innovation.group
Published on ILC (Managing escalating claims costs: the case for robust third-party control – I Love Claims)
July 2025
We’re thrilled to announce that Innovation Group has been recognised with two major industry awards in 2025 a proud moment that highlights the exceptional talent, innovation, and dedication of our teams across both the motor and property divisions.
Claims Service of the Year – Motor
Insurance Times Claims Excellence Awards 2025
In May, our Third-Party Intervention team in the motor division was honoured with the prestigious Claims Service of the Year – Motor award. This recognition celebrates the team’s outstanding service delivery, powered by advanced technology, streamlined processes, and a relentless focus on improving outcomes for customers and partners alike.
A huge congratulations to the team and a special thank you to Catherine Hulme and Chloe Gunn, who proudly accepted the award on behalf of the business.
Claims Initiative of the Year
British Insurance Awards 2025
In July, our groundbreaking EKS solution for subsidence claims took home the title of Claims Initiative of the Year. This award recognises the innovative, customer-centric approach that is transforming the property claims experience.
While John Watson and Gary De Groot had the honour of collecting the award, the real heroes behind the EKS solution are Allan Tew and Richard Rollit along with Professor Jefferson from Birmingham University. Their years of dedication, creativity, and collaboration have delivered a solution that is truly reshaping the industry.
“To be recognised in both the property and motor spaces is a huge honour and a true testament to the passion, innovation, and hard work of our people,” said John Watson, Managing Director, UK Insurance. “These wins reflect our commitment to setting new standards in claims handling and delivering genuine impact for those we serve.”
We extend our sincere thanks to the British Insurance Awards and the Insurance Times Claims Excellence Awards for these recognitions and our warmest congratulations to all fellow winners and finalists.
We’re proud to be dual award winners and even prouder of the incredible teams that made it happen.
Media Contact:
Sarah Middleton
Marketing Manager
salesandmarketing@innovation.group
3 March 2025 – Johannesburg, South Africa – Innovation Group is pleased to announce the appointment of Ross Simmonds as its new Managing Director, effective 3 March 2025. Ross brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in the financial and insurance industries, reinforcing the company’s commitment to innovation, growth, and excellence.
With close to 30 years’ experience, Ross has successfully led strategic initiatives, driven operational efficiencies, and spearheaded transformative projects. Ross is a qualified CA(SA) and Mechanical Engineer. Prior to joining Innovation Group, he served as the Managing Director for Unigro Financial Services.
Speaking on his new appointment, Simmonds said, “I am honoured to join Innovation Group and look forward to leading the company into its next phase of growth and success. Together with our talented team, we will continue to push the boundaries of innovation and deliver exceptional value to our clients and stakeholders.”
Jannes van Aswegen, Human Resources Executive, added, “We are delighted to welcome Ross to the Innovation Group family. His expertise and vision align perfectly with our company’s mission, and we are confident that he will drive us toward greater achievements.”
Under Ross’s leadership, Innovation Group aims to further strengthen its market position and drive sustainable growth.
Innovation Group also extends its sincere gratitude to Marcel de Klerk, who has led the company with dedication and vision over the past six years. Under his leadership, the company has achieved significant milestones, driven successful business growth and delivered strong financial performance. Marcel will continue to support the company, in a consultatory capacity, until the end of 2025.
Marcel de Klerk said, “It has been a privilege to serve as Managing Director of Innovation Group. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and confident that the company will continue to thrive under Ross’s leadership. I want to express my heartfelt thanks to each member of Innovation Group for their partnership and dedication over the years. Our collective efforts have created a remarkable story of success, and I am excited to see how Innovation Group continues to thrive in the years ahead.”
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Chicago, IL and Schaumburg, Illinois – April 24, 2024 — Innovation Group North America (“IG”), a leading provider of cutting-edge technology solutions for insurers, fleet companies and automotive manufacturers, has announced an exciting collaboration with Crash Champions, one of the largest founder-led providers of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S, and the nation’s premier collision repair company.
The alliance between Innovation Group’s advanced technology and Crash Champions’ operational expertise will drive significant advancements in the industry, while further enhancing processes, turnaround times, and the exceptional service customers have come to know from Crash Champions.
“Innovation Group welcomes Crash Champions to our network,” said Pete Douglas, CEO of Innovation Group North America. “Their commitment to quality, to service and their impressive location footprint support IG’s strategy to build the very best outsourced accident management solution in the country.”
Renowned for its dynamic technological platforms and robust operational support infrastructure, Innovation Group North America spearheads innovation in enhancing efficiency and efficacy within insurance and automotive sectors. Their unwavering pursuit of excellence and commitment to pushing the boundaries of technological advancement align strongly with Crash Champions’ vision to be the collision repair provider of choice for customers.
“We are pleased to partner with Innovation Group,” said Rachel Hutfless, Chief Client Officer, Crash Champions. “As we move forward together, I have no doubt that our collaboration will elevate the collision repair experience of our customers and set new industry standards benefiting everyone walking into one of our more than 630 locations around the country.”
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About Innovation Group
Innovation Group provides digital and easy-to-use cloud-based claims management software to the insurance and fleet industry combined with a combined services organisation offering BPO and Network Management services in the USA, UK, Germany, Spain, Australia, and South Africa. Innovation Group connects more than 1,200 global clients in the insurance space with an ecosystem of thousands of integrated regional network repairers and suppliers.
About Crash Champions
Crash Champions is one of the largest founder-led multi-shop operators (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S., serving customers and business partners at more than 630 state-of-the-art repair centers in 37 states across the U.S. The company was founded in 1999 as a single Chicago repair center by industry veteran Matt Ebert, a 2023 Winner of the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Midwest Award. For more information, and to locate a local repair center, visit www.crashchampions.com.
Media Contacts:
Innovation Group North America: Press@innovation.group
Crash Champions: Gaffney Bennett PR, Crash@GBPR.com
Sandton, Johannesburg – July 24, 2023 – Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd, announces the release of its new digital Mobility service, Hoot.
Hoot offers an easy-to-use online platform that provides customers with an accessible way to purchase a service plan. Through the platform, customers can decide how much they want to pay and lock in a policy that works for them. After successful purchase of a service plan policy, Hoot’s full self-service functionality allows customers to manage their policy – from debit order date changes right through to logging a claim – all at the click of a button.
“This is an important step for us as a business as we continue our focus on transforming the customer journey and putting our customers first in everything we do. The release of Hoot is a significant milestone in driving our digital mobility service solution and expanding our offering to market,” said Marcel de Klerk, Managing Director of Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd.
Imraan Rassool, GM: Strategic Growth and Innovation of Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd added: “Hoot offers customers, and potential customers, a central location through which to select and sign-up for service plans as well as manage future aspects related to their policies. The aim is to simplify the sign-up or purchase process and giving customers greater freedom and flexibility to choose the right cover for their needs.”
To find out more about Hoot, go to www.hootcover.co.za
Sandton, Johannesburg – April 3, 2023 – Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd, today announced the appointment of Cornel Storm as Executive Technology.
With over 20 years’ experience in information technology, Cornel is a seasoned professional with a strong background in IT business, strategy, and structure along with the management of business and software solution domains to clients. Cornel holds BSC Mathematical Science and BSC Hons. Information Technology degrees from the University of Johannesburg.
Commenting on his appointment, Marcel de Klerk, Managing Director of Innovation Group (Pty) Ltd, said: “We are excited to welcome Cornel to the Innovation Group South Africa team. His extensive experience in information technology will help strengthen our core technology development efforts whilst driving our overall technology strategy.”
Cornel added: “I am excited to join Innovation Group and taking on the responsibility of driving sustainable technology solutions for the group. I look forward to engaging with our internal, external, and global stakeholders alike as we move forward with the implementation of our technology strategy.”
London, 12 January 2023 – Further to the announcement in October 2022, Innovation Group is pleased to confirm that its acquisition by Allianz X has now completed.
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