Zurich has overhauled its repairer network after a review process, which will see it reducing the amount of firms that provide its insurance repair work in the UK from 170 to just four main providers.

Zurich has appointed ADR Accident Repair Services, DWS Bodyworks, Nationwide Accident Repair Services and the Seward Group to handle all of its motor repairs.

All firms will be appointed on five year long-term contracts, and Zurich will transition to the new network over the next 12 months.

Under the new model, Zurich has divided the UK into 15 key zones, (split by postcode regions) with each repairer covering specifically designated zones.

Zurich said the main reason for the review was because it was looking to work with repairers that provided an 'innovative claims service, had the capability to cope with motor industry regulation such as PAS 125 and the capability to repair the latest vehicle technology'.

Bill Paton, chief claims officer for Zurich, said "This radical review enables Zurich to develop strategic relationships with its repairer partners, ensuring all parties strive towards a more innovative service for customers.

"Our new approach will enable us to differentiate ourselves from our competitors, by working towards new initiatives such as a "real time" on-line claims tracking portal for customers.

"Working with 170 different repairers was proving impractical and as a result, working relationships had become more transactional in certain areas, resulting in inconsistent customer service across the country."