Universal Underwriters Adopts Zurich as Brand Name

The move is part of the company’s ongoing integration with parent company Zurich North America Commercial (ZNAC).

“We received tremendous support from our Customer Council when we presented plans to adopt the Zurich name during our biannual meeting in September 2006,” noted Dennis Kane, senior vice president of dealer markets. “The auto dealers that sell our finance and insurance products advised us they see greater potential for brand awareness and recognition with their retail customers by utilizing the global Zurich brand.”

“Customers believe in Universal Underwriters not because of a name, but because of strong relationships and promises kept,” added Bob Tschippert, senior vice president of automotive specialty markets. “The move to the Zurich brand will enhance those relationships by giving customers access to a greater depth of capabilities and resources.

“Automotive aftermarket businesses will not see significant changes in the way we handle business,” he continued. “Businesses will continue to work through an account executive, and we will continue to provide peace of mind through strong relationships and outstanding service. The same is true for aftermarket associations. The value they receive from our shared interests will be steadily increasing as Universal Underwriters further integrates with Zurich.”

If you’re a shop looking to sell summer tires, it’s important to know that customers looking for these tires have very specific needs. Let’s talk about why, before recommending summer tires, you need to fully understand customer performance requirements.

Unlike all-season or all-terrain tires built for diverse driving conditions, UHP summer tires are designed with one priority: dry and wet traction for performance driving. Lateral and longitudinal grip in dry and wet conditions are also important, which is achieved through optimized contact patches, high silica tread compounds and circumferential grooves to channel water. Generally, UHP summer tire tread design features large blocks and fewer grooves for more road contact on dry surfaces. The grooves are designed to channel water away from the tire, reducing the risk of hydroplaning on wet roads.