Q&A on New Member Insurance Program for PRINTING United Alliance Members

In continuing to further support and serve its members, PRINTING United Alliance has partnered with USI, a national leader in insurance member benefits, to create a brand-new insurance program: PRINTING United Alliance Insurance Program. Learn more in this dedicated Q&A about the new member benefit, and the importance and value for printers to sign up to receive the very best coverage.

Q: Who is USI Insurance Services and how do you help member associations?

USI is very excited about our partnership with the Alliance. Over the last 75 years, we have worked with associations and alliances to develop insurance programs that provide knowledge and value to members in very niche industries. We are looking forward to working closely with the printing and graphic arts industry, and bringing insurance solutions from A-rated carrier partners that we know are impactful. Members can feel comfortable knowing they have a partner to turn to that will advocate on their behalf and offer cost-effective insurance solutions. 

Q: What benefits does the PRINTING Insurance Program provide to members?

The Alliance and USI spent a lot of time designing this member benefit together. The Alliance already had a deep understanding of what their members were looking for, and they shared that vision with us. We took that information and partnered with strong carriers that we knew addressed the industry from a business and personal coverage standpoint. Members can expect competitive pricing from top insurance carriers, specialized coverage designed for this niche market, as well as access to a team of experts that are available through multiple communication channels day in and day out. We provide members the guidance, education, and access to a full suite of products to protect their livelihoods (business and personal). The key is USI does the heavy lifting and presents options for members so they can make an informed decision.

Q: Are there product solutions you can highlight in which PRINTING Insurance offers?

Yes. A big focus on this program is the business coverage that members need and rely on. We know firsthand what can happen when a business isn’t properly insured, and the Alliance felt this was of the utmost importance. Through our program, members will be able to select business owners, errors and omissions, cyber liability, workers’ compensation, employment practices liability, commercial auto, directors and officers, crime, and specialized endorsements built in for the printing and graphic arts industry. The Printers Correction of Work is one such example, which I’m sure may hit close to home for many members. A standard off-the-shelf policy doesn’t fill all the needs members require and that is where we differentiate ourselves.

Q: Finding the right medical coverage seems to be an important issue for many companies today. How does USI assist when it comes to that discussion?

Medical insurance has always been an important issue, and it is vital to companies because it not only safeguards the health and well-being of employees, but also contributes to an engaged and productive workforce. More importantly — depending on the size of the company — the wants and basic needs can fall over a wide spectrum. It’s important for companies to know all their options — that might be group medical, or could even be individual medical coverage options. We offer a wide range of solutions to address this.

Q: The Alliance encompasses members that represent smaller business owners. How does the medical offering tailor to their needs?

The smaller business owner typically falls in an underserved market when it comes to group medical options. They also typically have fewer resources allocated to the management of employee plans, which can make decisions even more difficult. USI and the Alliance wanted to provide quality medical coverage specifically for members knowing how valuable a solution can be. Through the PRINTING Insurance Program, we provide small companies with an easy way to compare plans, receive quotes and recommendations, enroll online, and have access to an administrative platform that makes it even easier for year-round management. Plus, we know it’s very likely we can help companies save time and money in the process without impacting overall plan value.

Q: You mentioned the program offers personal insurance options. Can you explain what those are?

While working with the Alliance on the insurance program, we quickly understood that every member may have different needs. Separating product solutions into two different buckets — business coverage and personal coverage — made a ton of sense. When it comes to the personal coverage — such as dental and vision, life, disability insurance, travel insurance, auto and home — members, their employees, and their families have access to special benefits from their group buying power. By companies being a part of the Alliance, they can also share these product solutions with their team. In a way, it can improve their employee benefit portfolio overnight, as well as help business owners with their own necessary coverages.

Q: How does the program work with companies of any size?

The printing and graphic arts industry is so unique that you can have small mom-and-pop business shops, all the way to very large companies that have facilities over a million sq. ft. — both of which are equally important to our communities and industry. With that being said, the needs of each company can be unique, and insurance is not a one-size-fits-all. When we work with member companies, we ask the right questions to present the right options. Whether it’s a company that just needs help with cyber liability coverage, or a company that wants to address all their insurance needs, we provide the necessary expertise. ... No matter who you are or what you do, we have the knowledge and solutions to help you, and are ready when you are. 

Q: What is the future of insurance for this industry?

That’s a good question and one that will continue to change over time. What we do know is technology continues to be at the forefront when it comes to anything, especially in this industry. Policy language is so important, especially in the printing and graphic arts industry. Coverage that worked well years ago may not be offering what every business needs today, especially around equipment and the technology they rely on. 

Also, the industry as a whole is only one piece of this. The better question would be: What is the future of each company? As businesses grow and take on new jobs and staff, they must make sure their coverage adapts as well. We live in a world where everything is constantly changing, and risk management strategies and insurance protection are no different. That’s where USI helps keep a pulse on everything so members can focus on what is important to them.

Q: What are you most excited about when it comes to this new insurance program?

We are excited to work closely with the printing and graphic arts industry. We already know this is an engaged industry that is open to educating themselves when it comes to risk management solutions. Our team is eager to provide informative content and work hand-in-hand with members to make sure they have the right coverage options that are vital to their business, their employees, and their families. It’s tough enough operating a business, and both the Alliance and USI want to make sure there is a member benefit in place to offer the insurance solutions that are important in this industry.

Q: How can someone learn more about the PRINTING Insurance Program?

People can visit www.printing.org/programs-services/affinity-partner-programs for information related to this new member benefit. The website will provide program and product information. They will also find contact information to reach the team directly by phone or email. 

PRINTING United Alliance Insurance is administered by USI. Insurance is brokered and underwritten by third-party brokers and insurance companies who determine eligibility and scope of coverage. All questions should be directed to the appropriate broker or insurer.