Independent Brokers Helped Zurich’s Strong

The Anglo-Swiss Group Zurich Financial reported a 25 percent increase in U.K. sales for the year 2000, and attributed the rise to the efforts of independent brokers.

Independent financial advisors helped push sales of Zurich brands Allied Dunbar and Eagle Star up 22 percent to £221 million ($325 million). Sales from this source have more than doubled in the last three years said the company.

Zurich also expects some significant growth from its U.S. subsidiaries, and is considering listing its shares in the U.S. later this year.