The Hartford In Small Business Sales Venture With Ohio Bank

The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. and Huntington Insurance Services, a division of Huntington Bancshares Inc., say they have agreed to offer insurance to small business owners.

Under the agreement, The Hartford's workers' compensation, commercial auto, general liability, commercial property and package and umbrella coverages will be marketed through Columbus, OH-based Huntington Property and Casualty Insurance Agency, Inc. to businesses that have annual sales under $5 million. The Hartford will handle all related servicing of the business, including 24-hour nationwide claim services.

Late last year, Huntington Property and Casualty Insurance Agency, Inc. was created and licensed to sell and distribute property and casualty products which include property and liability business coverage; personal and commercial auto insurance; homeowners; and umbrella liability policies. With a banking presence that spans Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, West Virginia and Florida, The Huntington ranks 22nd of the top 50 U.S. banks in total small business loans.

Geoff Smith, president of The Hartford's commercial affinity business, says, "This agreement marks the 14th such arrangement with a financial institution, helping us to further expand our product distribution through banking organizations.

"Huntington's solid reputation in the marketplace make it an ideal companion to assist in our goal to increase our market share and build on our leadership position in the small commercial insurance sector," he adds.