Esurance expands into Canada

Allstate Corporation’s Esurance unit is expanding into Canada, announcing on Monday that it is offering auto insurance online directly to consumers in Alberta.

“Our research indicates there is an underserved segment of the Canadian market that prefers a self-directed experience,” said Jonathan Adkisson, president and COO of Esurance Canada in a press release.

Esurance president and CEO Gary Tolman noted that Canadians use the Internet at a higher rate than any other country, yet quoting and buying insurance online is still in its infancy.

Esurance is backed by the strength and experience of Allstate. The auto insurance provider said in a statement that Canadian consumers can be confident knowing that Esurance has a dedicated team of specialized licensed representatives and customer service associates to serve their needs.

“We are pleased to welcome Esurance to the Canadian market to enhance the options available to self-directed consumers,” John O’Donnell, president and CEO of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada, said in the statement. “With their entry into Canada, our combined companies can now meet the needs of Canadians according to their buying and service preferences.”

According to Esurance Canada’s website, esurance.ca, “From quote to claim, Esurance makes insurance faster and more efficient. Using state-of-the-art technology, we offer a seamless online experience along with intuitive tools that help take the hassle out of insurance.”

One of the early pioneers of online auto insurance, Esurance launched its website and started writing personal auto insurance in December 1999. In 2000 Esurance was acquired by Folksamerica Holding Company, Inc., a subsidiary of White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd. Allstate Corporation acquired Esurance and Answer Financial for $1 billion in 2011 from White Mountains Insurance Group.

According to Allstate’s annual report for 2014, Esurance expanded its renter products in 2014 from 16 to 19 states, motorcycle from 6 to 11 states, homeowners from three to 14 states and auto from 41 to 43 states.