The income protection market has been beset by problems of consumer apathy and confusion, while low levels of state incapacity benefits, a rising appetite for protection products and an increase in the cost of critical illness cover have been growth drivers. This report assesses the size of the income protection market, its distribution trends, key competitors and future potential to 2009.

• This report draws on ABI market size and distribution statistics, extensive secondary research and primary interviews with leading players
• Identifies the key future growth drivers affecting the IP market and forecasts premium income to 2009
• Sizes the total market and its mortgage and non-mortgage components, examines distribution trends and identifies distribution potential growth
• Analyzes the leading IP competitors, their market shares, latest developments and their strategies for success

The income protection market is set to grow, despite the forecast decline in the protection market as a whole. This positive outlook is driven by IFA opinion, improvements to products and new entrants driving innovative changes in the market.

The new entrants in the Income Protection market have produced products that are easy to understand and fulfil a distinct customer need. This should enable them to compete more effectively with Critical Illness products that have traditionally dominated this area of the market.

• Market forecast: Identify the future of the market, its potential and opportunities for developing winning products
• Competitor intelligence: Appreciate the key market competitors, their strengths and weaknesses to build successful strategies and boost business
• Market data: Understand market and distribution trends and drivers in the total life market and its individual product areas