Can someone please explain how this seismic shift of going direct is going to be executed. Furthermore, identify how things are going to be different this time in the direct arena compared to the 10 year track record of Esurance ownership. Also, tell me how an 88% (Allstate Goal) combined ratio will be achieved in the direct channel relative to the E-surance’s 10 year average of 106%.
Also if you can give your thoughts on retention with an emphasis on how direct will be able to improve annual retention from the historically low 87% that Allstate is at right now.
With all of this new business that the direct channel will be writing, enlighten me on how a product that is priced 7%~8% can be serviced properly internally with keeping an eye on expenses of hiring fully benefitted and salaried work call center.
With Geico and Progressive fast approaching $2 billion in their advertising budgets (Allstate is at $750 mil,) what will Allstate have to increase its advertising budget to compete with the big players in the direct insurance business?
And last but not least what will be the impact when Allstate has to take a 9%~12% rates on any of their P&C products that they often have to do to return shareholder equity. What will be the effect on retention and earned premium. What department will mitigate the impact of the future rate increases with the customers.