Pru to end doorstep sales

Insurance giant the Prudential has signalled the end of its door-step sales operation, slashing 2,335 jobs by the end of this year. The announcement follows similar moves by other insurance companies, with direct sales forces being squeezed out of the industry by lower-cost operations based on the internet and call centres.

Prudential will replace the door-step staff with a new sales force, which their union, MSF, hopes will create around 600 new jobs. The union is to be fully consulted on a new model of pay and conditions of employment.