By Valerie Franchi, Contributing Writer
Region – “A lot has changed in 28 years,” said Stan Szajna of Northeast Insurance. Since opening its first office in 1989 in Auburn, the business has grown from eight employees to 48 with six locations throughout central and eastern Mass. Szajna is co-owner and treasurer of Northeast Insurance with Scott Bulger, president.
He also noted the advances in technology, such as the internet, that have allowed staff at Northeast Insurance to perform many tasks online.
One thing that has remained constant over the years, however, is Northeast Insurance’s commitment to individual customer service.
“Our approach with our clients has not changed from a personal contact basis,” Szajna said. “We still make house calls or commercial calls and don’t use automated phone systems. When clients call in, they speak to an actual representative. It’s the way we’ve always done it – with a personal touch.”
The company also prides itself on the number of insurance carriers it represents.
“We have worked with dozens of insurance companies over the past year,” Szajna said, noting that Northeast Insurance focuses on about two dozen carriers, including Mapfre, Travelers and Safety.
“Not all companies are all things to all people,” he explained. “It depends on the type of risk. Some are better for higher-value homes, older homes or provide specific coverage for people with animals, pools or trampolines. It’s not one size fits all.”
The wide variety of carriers gives us the ability to shop around for best coverage and best price, according to Szajna.
“We analyze each client’s situation, and, with the number of companies we represent, we are able to offer the best possible price for the appropriate coverage. Every company has a little different strength and pricing ability. We can evaluate your needs and match them to a company and possibly improve coverage and price, especially if we combine auto and home insurance together,” Szajna said.
Northeast provides a comprehensive array of coverages and does not specialize in any one type.
“We do a little bit of everything,” Szajna said, including life insurance, auto, homeowners and condos. On the commercial side, they provide coverage for retail and wholesale businesses and contractors.
“Peace of mind is our policy” is the motto of Northeast Insurance and it is one that they take to heart.
“We have been using that motto for quite a while,” Szajna said. “It means that we are always looking out for the best interest of our clients. We want them to give them a feeling of security.”
The attention to their clients extends to their Facebook page, where they post helpful information, such as how to keep your home safe while on vacation; summer gardening advice; and pool safety tips.
Northeast also takes an active role in the communities they serve, sponsoring local sports teams, participating in fundraising events and supporting veterans’ groups.
“Community involvement and giving back to community are important,” Szajna said.
While there are currently no plans to open any new branches, “we are always on the lookout for an opportunity to expand,” Szajna noted.
Northeast Insurance has locations in Auburn, Westborough, Needham, Falmouth, Lexington and Provincetown. For more information, visit neinsure.com.