Daines Kapp, an independent brokerage founded in 1989 and based in Ware, Hertfordshire, has been shortlisted in two categories at the British Insurance Awards 2026: Insurance Broker of the Year and Small Broker of the Year. The awards, hosted by Insurance Post, will be presented at the Royal Albert Hall on 8 July 2026.

We are incredibly proud to share this news. To be recognised in the flagship Insurance Broker of the Year category alongside some of the largest global broking operations in the industry, whilst simultaneously shortlisted for Small Broker of the Year, is a reflection of the breadth and quality of what our team delivers every day.

About the British Insurance Awards 2026

The British Insurance Awards, hosted by Insurance Post, are the UK’s premier recognition programme for the general insurance market. The awards span broking, underwriting, claims, and technology, with shortlisted firms and individuals selected by an independent judging panel that evaluates client outcomes, innovation, and quality of service.

To appear on the 2026 shortlist in the Broker of the Year category — which encompasses firms of every size, from global networks to regional independents — validates our belief that a genuinely independent, highly personalised approach to broking can compete at the very highest level of the UK market.

“This recognition matters because of what the BIAs actually examine — client outcomes, quality of advice, and genuine innovation. Those are exactly the things we have invested in most. To be shortlisted in two categories is a reflection of the trust our clients place in us and the exceptional team who deliver for them every day.”

Stefan Daines, Broking Director, Daines Kapp

Our Approach to Modern Broking

Our core philosophy has always been to act strictly in our clients’ best interests, combining traditional, high-touch service with purposeful innovation. This shortlisting is a reflection of the key initiatives we focus on to continually improve the client experience:

• Clear, Accessible Advice: We use artificial intelligence in targeted applications to improve the clarity and accuracy of our documentation, making complex insurance terminology accessible and understandable. Crucially, a human expert is always in the loop to make final decisions and ensure advice is perfectly tailored to each client’s needs.
• Proactive Protection: We use smart tools to provide specific client segments with educational material on policies they may benefit from, followed up by our “Traffic Light System,” which highlights key coverage gaps so clients can make fully informed decisions about their risk.
• Frictionless Claims: We are always looking for ways to reduce stress for clients at claim time, which recently led to the internal development and launch of our bespoke motor claims notification portal.
• Investing in the Future: We are deeply committed to developing industry talent, proudly supporting six apprentices — both current and graduated — within our team.

What This Means for Our Clients

The BIA judging process examines shortlisted firms rigorously — looking at how well they serve their clients, how effectively they handle claims, and how they are driving the industry forward. For anyone seeking commercial insurance, construction insurance, or private client cover, this shortlisting provides independent, third-party assurance that the advice and service delivered by Daines Kapp genuinely competes at the highest level of the UK market.

Frequently Asked Questions: British Insurance Awards 2026

What are the British Insurance Awards?

The British Insurance Awards are the UK’s leading annual recognition programme for the general insurance industry, organised and hosted by Insurance Post. They are widely regarded as the benchmark for excellence across broking, underwriting, claims, and technology, with shortlisted firms selected by an independent judging panel.

Which categories has Daines Kapp been shortlisted for?

Daines Kapp has been shortlisted for two categories at the British Insurance Awards 2026: Insurance Broker of the Year and Small Broker of the Year.

When and where is the British Insurance Awards 2026 ceremony?

The British Insurance Awards 2026 ceremony takes place at the Royal Albert Hall, London, on 8 July 2026.

How is Daines Kapp using AI in its broking service?

Daines Kapp applies AI in targeted areas to improve the clarity and accuracy of client documentation, making complex insurance language more accessible. A qualified human expert reviews and finalises all advice and recommendations, ensuring every decision is accurate, compliant, and tailored to the client.

A Heartfelt Thank You

This national recognition is ultimately driven by the strong client feedback we receive every day. We are deeply grateful for the trust and loyalty you place in us — it is that relationship which allows us to continually improve and innovate.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to every member of our team, whose expertise and dedication make achievements like this possible.

The winners will be announced at the British Insurance Awards 2026 ceremony at the Royal Albert Hall on 8 July 2026. We look forward to representing the independent broking community on that stage.

If you would like to discuss your insurance needs with our award-nominated team, please Contact Us today — or explore our commercial, construction, and private client insurance services to find out how we can help protect what matters most to you.