Keeping it close-knit

With so many different models available and some networks increasingly putting commercialism at the top of their agenda, Edward Murray explores how brokers can get the most out of such a collaboration

For both established insurance brokers and their newly-born start-up competitors, one of the biggest business decisions to take is whether to belong to a network or work on a wholly independent basis.

For those prepared to throw in their lot with a network, the option of which one to choose has become increasingly difficult over the years. The variety on offer has grown and the business models have fractured (see box).

Initially, the idea behind networks was to help brokers get together and