A-One Insurance Group

Independent insurance broker headquartered in Ringwood (Hampshire)

A-One Insurance Group is an independent insurance broker founded in 1993 by Ian Penfold. The company opened its doors in a small office in Westbourne, Bournemouth, without a single policy on its books. It began as a personal insurance broker and developed a niche in high-value sports cars, a segment in which it built its own brand against call centres and direct insurers with no personal service. In 1998 it made a deliberate shift towards the commercial insurance market, with specialist staff to advise on and manage business portfolios.

The company states it has more than 160 specialists and ten locations across the UK. Each of its specialist divisions is led by experts in their field, and staff at each office provide a personalised service to every client to recommend the right policy. Its head office is at Energy House, Crow Arch Lane Industrial Estate, Ringwood, Hampshire.

Insurance areas for businesses and individuals

The broker's service range covers both personal and commercial and property risks. The company structures its offering across several lines:

• Home, motor and travel insurance: policies tailored to each client's needs.
• Marine insurance: for individuals, trades, vessels and clubs.
• Cyber insurance: protection against the growing threat of cybercrime.
• Business insurance: from sole traders to multinationals, with comprehensive cover.
• Travel insurance: to reduce stress and enjoy your holiday.
• High-net-worth insurance: for high-value homes, cars and belongings.
• Property insurance: blocks of flats, directors and officers, landlords, among others.
• Health and protection insurance: to protect you and your family against any eventuality.
• Claims management: an in-house team dedicated to looking after the client.

Claims management with a single point of contact

The company has its own claims management team. According to its presentation, each policy has a dedicated claims handler assigned, guaranteeing a consistent point of contact who knows the case. The team supports the client throughout the entire process, answers their questions and advocates on their behalf to achieve a smooth and efficient resolution, both for minor incidents and major events.

Client profile and collected reviews

The website includes testimonials from clients across different segments. A commercial client highlights the close attention and the thorough review of terms at renewal, which saved them money. A client with a claim describes the step-by-step support after their vehicle was declared a total write-off, with regular communication and respectful treatment. A property insurance client emphasises the knowledge and quality of service in managing a portfolio of blocks of flats over several years.

Publications and educational activity

The broker maintains a blog with content on regulation and risks. Among the topics published are the Renters Rights Act 2026 and its impact on tenants, landlords and landlord insurance; the closure of BT Redcare in December 2025 and its effects on fire, intruder and sprinkler alarm signalling; a GDPR compliance guide for UK SMEs; recommendations on the safe use of lithium-ion batteries and their relationship with insurance; the difference between sums insured and declared value to avoid underinsurance; a quote comparison service; and a case study of bespoke cyber insurance for a growing technology company. Team initiatives are also covered, such as participation in the Fan Dance Challenge in support of the Andy Cole Fund, and the nomination of Aaron Thorpe as a finalist for the Oliver Rose BIBA Young Broker of the Year award.

Structure and regulation

A-One Insurance Group comprises several companies, each authorised and regulated by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The company presents itself as an independent broker and owner of its own operations.

Location and contact

Energy House, Crow Arch Lane Industrial Estate, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 1PD · Phone: 0333 222 1030 · Email: info@aoig.co.uk