The ABI states the insurance industry has taken positive steps

The insurance industry has taken positive steps in improving customer focus but still has more to do, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Stephen Haddrill, director general of the organisation, told the Insurance Times Forum: "We have come a long way in improving customer outcomes. We have been competitive and innovative to the customers' great advantage. But we have further to go."

The rise in popularity of price comparison websites was cited as a catalyst for intensified scrutiny on insurance providers' products at yesterday's forum in London.

The forum, entitled 'Challenges for 2010 and Beyond', focused on the impact of the global economic downturn on the insurance industry.

Despite the recession, ABI figures released in September show that the insurance industry is in good health.

Net income for general insurance in 2008 was £34 million, an increase of three per cent on the previous year.

According to the figures, insurance companies are paying out almost £57 million a day to customers making motor and household claims.

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