Gallagher Bassett has released the fourth edition of our annual industry whitepaper, The Carrier Perspective: 2026 Claims Insights, which is now available to read for free. The 2026 Claims Insights whitepaper examines the key challenges shaping the UK and global insurance markets, offering actionable strategies to help carriers respond effectively. It also shares our experts' perspective on where the industry is heading in a year defined by both growth and continued innovation.
The 2026 edition of The Carrier Perspective draws on responses from 250 insurance leaders across the UK, North America, and Australia, including mutuals, managing general agents, and underwriting agencies, delivering an extensive view of the current industry landscape.
In 2026, insurers are navigating rising claim complexity, regulatory scrutiny, and climate-driven risk. The way organisations respond to these pressures will play a central role in protecting profitability and maintaining stakeholder confidence.
The survey highlights three leading challenges for UK insurers: talent attraction and retention (22%), premium affordability and insurability (17%), and keeping pace with rapid technological change (15%). These shifting pressures demand a proactive, forward-looking approach.
Below are a few of the key insights and highlights from the The Carrier Perspective: 2026 Claims Insights whitepaper. Get the full report to access a deeper view, including the strategies insurers are prioritising for the year ahead.
Talent shortages continue to challenge insurers globally. Talent attraction and retention stands as the top issue for insurers globally. Nearly three‑quarters of UK insurers report increasing difficulty sourcing qualified candidates, with labour shortages also contributing to rising claim costs.
Continued technological innovation leaves insurers constantly adapting. AI deployment for claims resolution in the UK has grown from 47% to 73% in the past 12 months, the fastest uplift across all regions surveyed. Yet almost half still consider adapting to rapid technological change a top business challenge.
Concern persists over rising claims cost and market accessibility. Premium affordability ranks as the second‑largest concern. Fifty-eight percent have seen a rise in claim cost and complexity over the past year, intensifying pressure on margins and customer accessibility.
Regulatory pressures remain a top concern for UK insurers to navigate. Thirty-seven percent of UK insurers report increased demand for liability coverage due to trade and tariff pressures, while 57% have adjusted coverage terms to manage trade-related cost impacts.
The Carrier Perspective: 2026 Claims Insights provides deeper analysis and the strategies insurers are using to navigate these shifts. Access the full whitepaper to explore the findings in detail and remain competitive in the year ahead.
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