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Cumberland Insurance Group Remains Strong in the Face of Financial Downturn

CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NJ: With the torrent of bad economic news sweeping Wall Street and Main Street, businesses and individuals are justifiably nervous about the ability of their insurance company to protect their assets. According to the Boston-based insurance consultant Celent, “This crisis is sure to affect insurers the world over for years to come. Although the unprecedented breadth and intensity of issues currently facing the industry will constrain future growth, they also represent opportunities for carriers that position themselves correctly.”

“The dynamics of the current marketplace provide The Cumberland Insurance Group with opportunities, as more and more of our agency partners look to the Company to answer the needs of the insurance buyer,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO. “As a result of strategies we have followed over the last decade, The Cumberland Insurance Group remains strong in the face of this worldwide financial downturn.”

“Over the last ten years, The Cumberland Insurance Group has achieved record direct written premiums and policyholders’ surplus,” said President Robert P. Brady. “In fact, in a most recent comparative analysis of current financial responsibility by Standard Analytical Service, Inc. of fifteen leading Property and Casualty companies, Cumberland Insurance outperformed the aggregate average in all categories.”

“However, in order to remain a premier mutual insurance company, we must continue to evaluate our existing products and develop new products and technology to meet the need of our customers,” Brady said. “Through our Information Technology and Research and Development Departments we are developing valuable innovations, ideas, and practical applications which will be a source of value when it comes to gaining a competitive advantage in the marketplace.”

According to Celent, “Carriers will need to reexamine their IT projects against a combination of strategic goals, including getting smarter by making better use of their market data and developing more robust analytic and modeling capabilities.”

“With the wisdom and guidance of our Board of Directors, The Cumberland Insurance Group has taken great strides to better serve our customers by maintaining the Company’s focus on tradition while welcoming innovation and growth,” said Richard M. Ritter, Cumberland Insurance Group Executive Vice President. “By continuing to evaluate our current product offerings and developing new products and technologies, we enhance our ability to increase our book of business.”

“In the face of current financial conditions, The Cumberland Insurance Group remains a well-capitalized company whose surplus exceeds its written premiums, ensuring that we have the financial strength to aggressively compete for new business,” said Paul J. Ritter, III, Senior Vice President, CFO, and Secretary to the Board. “Furthermore, our commitment to Enterprise Risk Management initiatives ensures our safety and soundness in these uncertain financial times.”

“The attention to detail in all aspects of our business helps separate us from other insurance companies. It is a legacy of service and financial strength that is reflected in our day-to-day operations. We are proud to say that for over 163 years we have been there when it counts, meeting the needs of our policyholders with competitive and innovative products and exceptional customer service. As we navigate the current market conditions and look to the future, we will continue to deliver the products, services, and technology that make The Cumberland Insurance Group the best solution for our agents and policyholders.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $322,267,129 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,387,741. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Announces Promotion and New Officer

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: The Cumberland Insurance Group Board of Directors is pleased to recognize Richard M. Ritter, Paul J. Ritter III, Esq., Roby L. Musick, and Linda M. May on their recent promotions, and welcomes Michael A. Colodney, Esq. as the new Vice President of Legal Affairs.

“These promotions solidify the organization as we move forward and position The Cumberland Insurance Group with the next generation of leadership,” said Cumberland Insurance Group CEO and Chairman Leo T. Hogan. “Rick and Paul are both assuming expanded management roles. Both have been instrumental in developing our current strategy and our record results in recent years. They demonstrate the strength and depth of Cumberland’s executive talent.”

Richard M. Ritter was promoted from Assistant Executive Vice President to Executive Vice President. He has 30 years of experience in the insurance industry and previously served for four years as President of The Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Chester County. Mr. Ritter joined The Cumberland Insurance Group in 2000 following the merger between the two companies. He oversees underwriting operations in the Bridgeton, New Jersey; Coatesville, Pennsylvania; and Prince Frederick, Maryland offices; and oversees Information Technology operations in Mansfield, Ohio. Mr. Ritter also currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Delaware Insurance Guaranty Association, and as the Vice Chairman of the Coatesville Area School Board.

Paul J. Ritter III, Esq. has been promoted from Vice President and Assistant Secretary to the Board of Directors to Senior Vice President, CFO, and Secretary to the Board of Directors. Mr. Ritter graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1983 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and received his law degree from Widener University in 1987. He joined The Cumberland Insurance Group in 1999. Mr. Ritter’s new responsibilities include budgeting and strategic planning, internal financial reporting, enterprise risk management, and business continuation planning. In addition, he serves as the Deputy Mayor of Hopewell Township, New Jersey, and as a member of the Hopewell Township Planning Board. Mr. Ritter is also an Adjunct Professor of Business Law at Cumberland County College.

Roby L. Musick has been promoted from Vice President to Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer. He has nearly 20 years of experience in the information technology field. Prior to joining The Cumberland Insurance Group, Mr. Musick worked for the Shelby Insurance Company and the Selective Insurance Group. Mr. Musick currently manages The Cumberland Insurance Group’s Ohio technology office. He is a member of the Technology Advisory Committee for Pioneer Joint Vocational School and a member of the Information Systems Advisory Committee for North Central State College.

Linda M. May has been with The Cumberland Insurance Group for 30 years. She previously managed the Commercial Lines Underwriting Department, and in 2006, she assumed management of the newly created Research and Development Department. Ms. May graduated from Cumberland County College, and has pursued a number of continuing educational courses through professional insurance organizations. She also obtained her Agent’s license from the South Jersey Professional School of Business. Ms. May is the president-elect of the National Association of Insurance Women of Cumberland/Salem County.

Michael A. Colodney, Esq. has joined The Cumberland Insurance Group as Vice President of Legal Affairs. Prior to joining Cumberland, Mr. Colodney was a Senior Associate in the Corporate and Business Law Department of Bressler, Amery, & Ross, P.C.; General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary for Goen Technologies; and Associate General Counsel and Director of Regulatory Affairs for the Credit Union Affiliates of New Jersey. He received his law degree from Seton Hall University in 1997. As the senior legal officer for The Cumberland Insurance Group, Mr. Colodney is responsible for guiding all aspects of the corporate legal functions.

“My congratulations go out to all five individuals. Rick, Paul, Rob, and Linda have been integral members of our leadership team for several years,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “Over this period, they have made significant contributions to our enhanced regional capabilities and our compliance responsibilities. We are also pleased to have Michael Colodney as a new member of The Cumberland Insurance Group family. His legal acumen, leadership skills, and breadth of industry knowledge will be strong assets for the Company.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $322,267,129 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,387,741. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Strongly Supports Professional Insurance Organizations

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: Since 1844, The Cumberland Insurance Group has provided property and casualty insurance products and services to a growing regional market. Over our 164 year history, strong relationships with independent community-based, professional insurance agents have always been a key to our success. Our commitment to the independent agency system and to the professional insurance organizations that support our agency partners is stronger today than ever.

“We recognize that our agents are instrumental to our success, and we remain committed to the independent agency system and the insurance associations that support this system,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group CEO and Chairman. “Because independent agents are local residents, the customer interaction that is important to creating confidence and security is easier to achieve. Local agents know the market well and this knowledge helps the Company underwrite efficiently, price the business adequately, and develop long-term relationships with the policyholder.”

“Independent insurance associations provide a support system professional independent agents can rely on for information, education, advocacy, networking, and guidance,” said Steve J. Catranis, Senior Vice President of Marketing. “A united front and an excellent support system are the keys to the independent insurance agents’ well being and success, and in turn to the success of The Cumberland Insurance Group. Despite all of the competition from new distribution outlets such as the Internet and 1-800 insurance companies, the independent agency system has held strong and stands=2 0as proof positive that independent agents bring value to the industry and to their customers.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is proud to support associations like the Professional Insurance Agents (PIA), Independent Insurance Agents and Brokers (IIAB), and the National Association of Insurance Women (NAIW). This support manifests itself in a number of ways. For example, the Company has been a sponsor of annual statewide conventions held by these organizations for many years, and also continues to support special events like the annual IIAB of New Jersey golf classic which raises money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. We encourage the participation by Cumberland employees as members and officers in professional insurance associations, and we vigorously support their ongoing educational opportunities.

The Cumberland Insurance Group was established in 1844 and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $322,267,129 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,387,741. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Introduces New Products

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: The Cumberland Insurance Group is pleased to announce a number of new Personal Lines products. The new products include Equipment Breakdown Coverage; which is available through our existing Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware Homeowner policies; an updated Personal Automobile Program in Pennsylvania; and a new Personal Automobile Program in the state of Maryland.

“This is another step in our efforts to offer more insurance choices for the customer,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan. “The addition of these new products, and others which are still in development, directly support our long-term growth goals. Also, by introducing new products, we are able to achieve a better spread of risk throughout the four-state region we serve. We are confident that the new programs will provide our current and new policyholders with superior coverage at a competitive price.”

“We are very happy with the new Personal Auto product,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Executive Vice President Richard M. Ritter. “The program includes more flexible underwriting guidelines than our previous auto product, and features 30 program tiers within three distinct classifications, giving our agents and customers more options.”

Policyholders who currently have their homes insured by Cumberland and who qualify for the new Personal Automobile coverage, can save money on both policies with a companion discount. Additional savings can be achieved through multi-car coverage, an accident-free driving record, completion of driver’s education courses, students with good grades, anti-theft devices, anti-lock brakes, and passive restraints. The program also features guaranteed replacement coverage on new vehicles for up to two years.

“We also recently introduced our new Equipment Breakdown Coverage which protects against unexpected repair or replacement costs due to mechanical, electrical, or pressurized systems breakdown,” Ritter continued. “This new coverage option is an affordable alternative to costly product and home warranty plans. A typical Homeowner policy excludes these types of losses, and individual warranty plans can be costly and confusing. Whether the customer is a renter or a high value homeowner, we can cover them through this inexpensive program.”

“Developing products which are less expensive, straight forward, and adaptable to evolving needs, makes it easier for our agency partners to aggressively compete for new business and retain existing business,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “In addition, we believe our customers will view The Cumberland Insurance Group as a good value for their insurance dollar. We are excited about our ability to continue to enhance all of our service offerings and to the introduction of additional products into the marketplace in the coming months.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Celebrates “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work”” Day”

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: As a follow-up to “Job Shadow Day” which was held in February, The Cumberland Insurance Group recently participated in a second national career education initiative. “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work” Day is designed to be more than a career day. This public education program connects what children learn at school with the actual working world. The program encourages girls and boys, ages six to 14, to dream without limitations and to think imaginatively about their family, work, and community lives. The theme for 2008 is Making Choices for a Better World.

“Making Choices for a Better World is something we need to encourage all children to think about,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan. “This means making choices to serve the community and one’s family, to care for one’s body and health, and to make better choices that impact our environment, as well as one’s future.”

“Exposing girls and boys to what a parent or mentor does during the workday is important, but the ‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ philosophy seeks to do more,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “By showing children the value of their education, helping them discover the possibilities associated with a balanced work and family life, providing an opportunity to share how they envision the future, and demonstrating how to reach their goals in a hands-on interactive environment greatly enhances their chances of achieving success.”

This year, 26 children took part in The Cumberland Insurance Group “Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work” program. The day started when the children arrived at the office and were split into groups according to age. Chaperones then gave them a tour and explanation of the company’s various departments including Personal and Commercial Lines Underwriting, Claims, Marketing, Information Technology, Accounting, Audit and Billing, Human Resources, Mail Room, and the Executive offices. Next, the children moved outside where they participated in the “Cumberland Olympics” which included a bean bag toss, softball and basketball throws, and a sock relay. After the activities, they all had lunch and the children rejoined their parents and grandparents in their respective departments for the remainder of the day.

“Work and family balance is a central issue for every family member in our society now and for the foreseeable future,” said Stephanie McAllister, Cumberland Insurance Group Billing Manager. “‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ Day helps stimulate a national conversation about this crucial issue. In addition, the children have a great time seeing their parents or grandparents at work, learning about the various professions in the company, and seeing how everyone works together to make a product for the customer.”

“We believe that it is important that ‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ Day is organized during the school year,” Brady continued. “This allows the girls and boys to take what they learn in workplaces on Thursday and apply it to the classroom on Friday. By involving schools, students, parents, workplaces, and mentors, the program helps young people make the connection between what they learn in school and their future goals.”

“More and more, locations are competing in a global economy that increasingly recognizes and prizes the vital role of dedicated individuals. ‘Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work’ Day gives young people a taste of the workplace. But it also reminds us as parents, policymakers, voters, and corporate leaders that our success as a company, and as a nation, depends on our ability to nurture and help fulfill the dreams and potential of all of our young adults. The Cumberland Insurance Group is proud to do our part,” Hogan concluded.

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Joins Members of Congress in support of National Guard Deployment

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: The Cumberland Insurance Group was among 10 New Jersey companies who joined Senators Frank Lautenberg and Robert Menendez, and Congressman Rush Holt recently in support of New Jersey’s largest overseas deployment by the National Guard since World War II. Nearly 2,600 soldiers, which represents almost half of the State’s Army National Guard force, will be deployed in June. The event was quite personal as a member of the Cumberland family is part of the deployment.

” It was truly an eye-opening day,” said Ken Clements, Cumberland Insurance Group Vice President of Information Technology. “One of my senior engineers, Jonathan Lafferty, is a member of the 50th Infantry Brigade Combat Team which will be heading to Iraq later this year. It will be difficult to replace his skills, but we fully support his decision to join the Guard.

The event was organized to give employers the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the issues employees and their families will face as they prepare for the deployment. This included observing and participating in some of the training the soldiers are going through and meeting with officers to discuss the time commitment that will be required of their employees before they depart.

“My day started at the Lawrenceville Armory where I learned about the processing and training the guardsman will be going through,” Clements said. “Later, I was flown to Fort Dix on a Black Hawk helicopter to tour the training facilities. I was able to put on the actual gear that the troops carry, and was amazed at how heavy it was, approximately 150 pounds.”

“I then got the chance to experience the training facility first-hand which included a full scale Iraqi village where I was able to take part in an exercise, actually carrying and firing a simulated weapon,” Clements continued. “At the end of the day, I flew back to Lawrenceville and departed for home with a different perspective on what our young men and women go through and what they will experience in Iraq.”

In support of Jonathan, The Cumberland Insurance Group is doing all they can to help, and in fact is going beyond the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. “While Jonathan is deployed, he will continue to receive all of his Company benefits,” said Human Resources Director Laurie Latorre. “We are supplementing his National Guard pay so that it remains at his current civilian level. We are maintaining his medical coverage for his family as well as contributions to his retirement plan. While he is gone, his job duties will be covered by other employees through cross-training. When he returns in approximately 12 months, we will provide reverse cross-training to catch him up on the technology changes that may have taken place while he was gone.”

“All of us at The Cumberland Insurance Group are proud of Jonathan,” said Robert P. Brady, Cumberland Insurance Group President. “Considering the difficulties he and his family will be facing while he is away, we believe it is our responsibility to step up to the plate and do all we can to support him, and that is what we are going to do. It is inspiring to see individuals who are willing to take on this enormous challenge.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618. For more information about The Cumberland Insurance Group, please visit www.cumberlandgroup.com.

Cumberland Insurance Believes in Helping the Community


Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan (pictured far right) presents a check
for funds raised by Cumberland employees to benefit the Lower Alloways Fire and Rescue Squad.

Pictured (L-R) Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady, Cumberland employee and
Lower Alloways volunteer Kelli Fisher, Chief Greg Blades, and Assistant Chief Michael Fisher.

 

BRIDGETON, NJ: More and more, the involvement of a business within the community it serves is a critical component in the decision making process for potential employees, business partners, and customers. Accordingly, The Cumberland Insurance Group believes companies who practice good corporate citizenship can distinguish themselves in a market where customers are becoming more sophisticated and discerning in their decision making process. We would like to recognize our hundreds of employees who continued to demonstrate this community spirit during 2007.

“The Cumberland Insurance Group is a regional company grounded in the local communities we serve,” said Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO Leo T. Hogan. “As a result, the Company has worked hard to establish a tradition of good corporate citizenship in the communities that have supported us and helped us to prosper for over 160 years. We demonstrate this commitment with the same local emphasis in all of our business practices.”

“As a Company, we commit to living and working every day as a proud part of the community,” said Cumberland Insurance Group President Robert P. Brady. “During 2007, the Company was proud to once again sponsor the IIANJ Golf Classic for the New Jersey Make-A-Wish Foundation and our college scholarship program which benefited students at Cumberland County College in New Jersey and Delaware County Community College in Pennsylvania. Employees also helped sponsor trips for underprivileged preschool students to the Columbus Zoo in Ohio; raised money for the Lower Alloways Creek Volunteer Fire Department in Salem County, New Jersey; and so much more including pediatric cancer, muscular dystrophy, and breast cancer. Through these various efforts, the Company has helped contribute hundreds of thousands of dollars to those in need. In addition, our Board members, officers, and staff continue to give their time and expertise to a variety of civic groups, charitable organizations, faith-based groups, and special events which provide much needed help within the community.”

“Our ties to the communities we serve give us in-depth knowledge of the needs of our customers and agents,” said Richard M. Ritter, Assistant Executive Vice President in the Coatesville, Pennsylvania Office. “Our local perspective helps us to operate with a caring and responsive attitude. Professionalism, integrity, social responsibility, and community involvement continue to define the people of The Cumberland Insurance Group. We do care about the diverse communities we serve and are enthusiastic about making our contribution to the enhancement of each. We encourage employees to get involved and to bring suggestions to senior management when they see a need or feel we can make a difference. For example, we were happy to support their efforts this year in events like National Denim Day for the Susan G. Koman Foundation and the Relay For Life for the American Cancer Society.”

“We do it because it is the right thing to do,” Hogan said. “However, good corporate citizenship also makes good business sense and helps to strengthen all of our relationships within the community. We also believe it helps employees to feel more committed to the Company and more likely to be highly motivated and productive in their jobs.”

“The Cumberland Insurance Group takes pride in the impact our employees have on the communities we serve. Our goal is to continue to have an impact on a regional scale. People are the past, present, and future of The Cumberland Insurance Group. We are all committed to making our communities better places to live and work,” Hogan concluded.

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

Cumberland Insurance Group Supports Professional Insurance Agents Branding Program

BRIDGETON, NJ: As a strong supporter of the Independent Agency System, the Cumberland Insurance Group looks for opportunities to participate in programs sponsored by insurance agency associations. One of the largest and most respected of these is the National Association of Professional Insurance Agents (PIA). The organization was established in 1931 to support the needs of independent insurance agents. They recently launched a nation-wide Branding Program which The Cumberland Insurance Group has joined.

“We are committed to the independent agency system as our sole distribution method. As a result, the profitable relationships we have formed over the years are reflected in the strength of our agency base in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO. “We listen closely to what our agency partners have to say, and we are committed to providing them with the tools they need to be successful. This includes identifying and taking advantage of marketing opportunities.”

As a participating carrier in the PIA Branding Program, The Cumberland Insurance Group will be accepting PIA Branded advertisements with the slogan “Local Agents Serving Main Street America” as part of their Cooperative Advertising Program. By supporting their appointed agents who choose to run these ads, and by supporting the PIA Brand more generally in their press announcements, newsletters, etc., The Cumberland Insurance Group is doing their part to strengthen the independent agency distribution system and professional insurance agents.

The PIA Branding Program extends the reach of an already established identity, the neighborhood Professional Insurance Agent. The goal is to attract new customers, write more business, and increase market share for PIA member agencies and their carrier partners like The Cumberland Insurance Group.

In addition to the Branding Program, The Cumberland Insurance Group supports efforts by PIA national and state organizations to advocate on behalf of agents within industry and government, addressing emerging issues affecting the insurance industry nationwide. Cumberland Insurance Group employees also participate in PIA sponsored educational programming in order to achieve industry recognized designations such as Certified Insurance Counsel (CIC) and Certified Insurance Services Representative (CISR).

“PIA has always been very much a grassroots organization,” said Steve J. Catranis, CPCU, Cumberland Insurance Group Senior Vice President. “The PIA Branding Program is a great example of this, and one we are proud to take part in. PIA members realize the importance of an organization that advocates on their behalf and enables them to stay informed, educated, and connected to other insurance professionals.”

“PIA member agents provide the community with personal support and service, plus a choice of insurance products to meet their needs,” said Robert P. Brady, Cumberland Insurance Group President. It is our distribution system of choice because when it comes to protecting what they have worked so hard to achieve, our customers prefer to deal with someone local who they know and trust.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

The Cumberland Insurance Group Launches New Website

BRIDGETON, NJ: The Cumberland Insurance Group recently unveiled their new Company Web site which has been upgraded to enhance the delivery of information to the Company’s growing list of agents and policyholders in the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware. The
Cumberland Insurance Group Web site may be accessed at www.cumberlandgroup.com.

“We are continuing to make important changes in the way we use technology to expand our relationship with our customers and agency partners,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO. “I believe the upgrades we have incorporated have accomplished our goal of providing a site that is easy to navigate while also incorporating a look that sets us apart from our competitors.”

The Web site offers easy navigation to these online features:

Agent Directory – Allows users to conduct a radius search to find all Cumberland agents in a given area.

Programs – Provides a description of Cumberland’s Commercial and Personal Lines coverages.

Forms – Allows agents to download and print forms, access monthly commission statements, and agency experience reports.

Company News – Provides visitors current and past Cumberland Insurance Group announcements, newsletters, and annual reports.

Contact and Billing Information – Lists contact information for each of Cumberland’s field offices and customer payment options.

Online Rating – Provides online Personal Lines rating, Personal Lines issuance, and the ability to quote Business Owner Policies.

“Even as we unveil the new Web site, we are preparing to incorporate additional interface technology for our agents,” said Ken Clements, Vice President of Information Technology. “Interfacing allows Cumberland agents to file applications electronically, which will speed up our workflow and reduce the waiting time for the agent. The ability to upload and download data between agents and the Company will reduce expenses and improve customer service. In addition, policyholders will soon be able to make premium payments online via credit card.”

“The new Web site has been a collaborative effort of many individuals,” said Steve Catranis, Senior Vice President, Marketing. “We have strived to make the Web site an inviting gateway to insurance
information on the internet. As more people use the Web to find insurance information, it is becoming increasingly important to make a good first impression. The Web site also helps us to reinforce our business relationships, while continuing to strengthen our branding objectives.”

“Our goal was to develop a dynamic Web site focused on both the needs of the agent and the policyholder,” said Robert P. Brady, Cumberland Insurance Group President. “Ideally, we hope the Web site will produce new leads and provide existing clients with a customer service portal to a variety of useful information. By staying on the cutting edge of new information systems, The Cumberland Insurance Group can improve communications with our agents and insureds, making it easier for them
to do business with us.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the States of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618.

Cumberland Insurance develops Partnership with Cumberland County College

BRIDGETON, NJ: The Cumberland Insurance Group, in partnership with Cumberland County College, recently developed an educational program which links credit and noncredit courses and gives students another option for learning. The program integrates existing course offerings at Cumberland County College with continuing education courses offered by the Insurance Institute of America. The result is a win/win opportunity for both organizations.

The idea emerged out of discussions between Roy Richie, CPCU, Cumberland Insurance Group Senior Vice President of Underwriting; Debra Kuhl, EdD, the Chair of the Cumberland County College Business Department; and Vickie Simek, the Acting Director of the Professional and Community Education Division at Cumberland County College.

“We decided to explore what it would take to blend what Cumberland County College currently offers with what Cumberland Insurance and the Insurance Institute require,” Richie said. “We structured the program to make it attractive to our current workforce at Cumberland Insurance, as well as to business students at the College. This included offering on-line registration at Cumberland Insurance Group offices, and holding courses in our on-site training room. Instructors include Cumberland County College staff, qualified Cumberland Insurance Group instructors, and independent insurance instructors.”

“When we work together, we satisfy individual needs as well as collective needs. We are stronger for it,” Simek said. “After our initial meeting with The Cumberland Insurance Group, the decision to proceed was very easy to make. We have had a long-standing relationship with them in other areas. This program seemed like a natural extension.”

Through the partnership, a number of positive outcomes were achieved including:

  • A program of study at the College combining existing Cumberland County College credit and noncredit courses with Insurance Institute of America courses.
  •  Satisfied The Cumberland Insurance Group’s need for a continuous pool of skilled workers.
  • Provided an opportunity for Cumberland Insurance Group employees to pursue higher education while working full time.
  • Satisfied Cumberland County College’s need to expand student offerings and enhance their Business Management Program.
  •  Enhanced the working relationship between The Cumberland Insurance Group and Cumberland County College.

“In order to ensure that our employees are knowledgeable and current on all industry trends, we support ongoing educational opportunities whenever possible,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO. “We have supported Cumberland County College for many years through our college scholarship program, and are pleased to now pursue an even closer working relationship.”

“We believe this concept could also be expanded to incorporate other businesses in the County which have continuing educational requirements such as banking, real estate, and financial services,” said Robert P. Brady, Cumberland Insurance Group President. “It doesn’t cost much to run the program, it isn’t difficult to set up, and it produces tangible results. The end result is better educated and more productive employees, which gives companies the best opportunity for long-term growth and ensures customers receive the quality service they deserve.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group is rated A+ Superior by the A.M. Best Company, and currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618.


For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.

The Cumberland Insurance Group Recognized As a Super Regional Insurance Company

BRIDGETON, NEW JERSEY: The Cumberland Insurance Group has been recognized as a Super Regional Insurance Company by the prestigious industry magazine, Insurance Journal. The complete inaugural listing of 138 companies appears in the February 12 national edition of the magazine.

A number of property/casualty insurers call themselves “Super Regionals” as a way to differentiate their company in the marketplace. Until now, there has been no industry-wide, objective definition of a “Super Regional.” To open an industry discussion on the subject and to give definition to this important group of insurers, Insurance Journal called upon their official research partner, Demotech Inc., to conduct the necessary research and develop an objective list.

According to Demotech President Joseph Petrelli, “Insurance Journal came to us with the idea of establishing objective financial standards for stratifying property/casualty carriers. We saw this as an opportunity to bring definition to the ‘Super Regional’ term and to recognize these insurers for their achievements.”

In outlining the reasons for selecting Cumberland Insurance, Demotech found that “The Cumberland Insurance Group has successfully competed against national and international insurance companies and forged a significant and well-respected presence in the marketplace they serve.”

Criteria used by Demotech included the following:

  • Active, individual companies not in regulatory supervision as of December 31, 2005.
  • Companies reporting data to the NAIC using the property/casualty annual and quarterly
    statement format.
  • Companies with more than $1 million of direct written premium in each of two to 34 states as of December 31, 2005.
  • Companies with less than 90% of their direct written premium in any one state as of
    December 31, 2005.
  • Companies with less than 90% of their direct written premium in any one line of business as of December 31, 2005.
  • Companies with at least $100 million of surplus as of December 31, 2005 and September 30, 2006.
  • Companies with net written premium of at least $50 million as of December 31, 2005.
  • Companies with direct written premium of at least $25 million as of December 31, 2005 and greater than $0 at September 30, 2006.  “The ‘Super Regional’ list compiled by Demotech and the Insurance Journal is an impressive group of companies who we are proud to be associated with,” said Leo T. Hogan, Cumberland Insurance Group Chairman and CEO. “The management team, employees, and agents who represent Cumberland are to be commended for staying true to the Company’s core principles of providing quality products and quality customer service.”

“Understanding and responding to the needs of our customers has been the hallmark of The Cumberland Insurance Group’s long and distinguished history,” said Robert P. Brady, Cumberland Insurance Group President. “As we look forward to additional growth opportunities in the years to come, we will develop our employees and systems to outperform the competition in order to be recognized as the preferred ‘Super Regional’ carrier by the top independent agents.”

The Cumberland Insurance Group currently serves over 134,000 policyholders in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, In 2006, the Company had Total Admitted Assets of $313,885,235 and a Policyholders’ Surplus of $140,421,618.

 


 

For more information about this press release, please contact Lee Tofanelli at 856-691-3113.