Independent Agent magazine examined key findings from the 2026 Agency Universe Study, introduced Greg Sandrock as the new Big “I” chair and explored how consumers are embracing AI while still valuing the human touch.
Employee injury is already part of the risk conversation. A more connected process can make it easier for agents to discuss workers compensation and act on the need.
Agents place high value on carriers that interact with them as a partner rather than a vendor, with 48% of agent-carrier relationships meeting the partner criteria.
Independent agencies are targeting growth while reshaping operations to better serve clients, according to the biennial study.
Todd Dailey’s approach to technology follows a simple hierarchy: people, process, then technology.
A more connected quoting experience can make workers compensation easier to handle, giving agents more time to understand the business, educate clients and recommend coverage.
Independent agents should make cyber insurance a standard part of every small commercial quote, not just a coverage discussed when clients ask about it.
The biennial study reveals revenue growth, technology adoption and a focus on customer service.
Most insurance intake tells agents what products a person is looking for. But what kind of conversation is the shopper actually ready to have?
On this episode of Agency Nation Radio, Will Jones, editor-in-chief of Independent Agent magazine, chats with Kristina Witzling, executive vice president from Zeldis Research, to unpack the results of the 2026 Agency Universe Study.
