President & Chief Executive Officer of the BF&M Companies, Glenn Titterton, said
"I am delighted that BF&M Limited has been rated as "Excellent" by A. M. Best. Our customers will have recognized the strength of our companies for some time but it is gratifying to have this financial strength acknowledged by an independent organization with the international reputation of A. M. Best."
In part A. M. Best cite BF&M's "consistent operating performance, diversified business profile, secure capitalization and experienced and focused management." Bests point out that "management is experienced, focused and typical of a larger enterprise" and they say that "together, these advantages bring considerable strength and security for the benefit of the policyholders." (full text of A. M. Best News Release attached)
Mr. Titterton said that BF&M was building on its strong financial base and experienced management to make exciting advances. He pointed to BF&M's customer focus and substantial lead in e-commerce and noted that new products and services were being rolled out on a continuing basis. BF&M recently introduced Bermuda's most advanced health insurance plan, the Global Health Series, offering real alternatives to employees who can choose from nine alternatives, rather than accept a "one size fits all" policy. Other initiatives include 60% owned subsidiary Barr's Bay Properties Limited, which is building a new five floor office building on Pitt's Bay Road, starting in 2002.
Mr. Titterton said that "BF&M is well positioned to meet the challenges ahead and we look to the future with great enthusiasm."