Progressive’s Referrals Program Hits 50,000 Independent Agent Sales Mark

Independent agents using Ohio-based Progressive Insurance’s customized referrals program, ProLeads, have sold 50,000 new insurance policies representing at least $40 million in premiums since May 2001, according to the company.

Consumers who see Progressive advertising, call the company or go to its Web site for a quote but decide they want a local agent’s service are referred through the program.

Progressive e-mails consumers’ contact information—with their permission—to the agent selected by the customer from a list of about five local agents. Agents can also access these leads via the company’s secure, agent-dedicated Web site, www.foragentsonly.com, and use the site to track and update their sales efforts on a referrals report page for their agency.

The ProLeads program is only available to agents and brokers authorized by Progressive, and guidelines for participation vary by region. Usually agents are required to meet a minimum volume requirement and quote Progressive to all referred consumers. But the company doesn’t require participating agents to place the business referred to them with Progressive.