Milestones in Allianz History

Since 1905, we have grown steadily through innovation and acquisition. A look back at our history reveals the significant developments that have made us one of the UK's largest and best known insurers.

1905	Cornhill Insurance is founded by directors of Willis Faber as a Fire insurance company.
1919	Cornhill offers a personal accident product for the first time, a workman's compensation policy.
1924	Cornhill issues its first motor insurance policy.
1943	Thomas Tilling acquires a majority interest in Cornhill Insurance.
1953	Cornhill's country head office opens in Guildford.
1957	Cornhill pioneers the first 50% NCD for motor policyholders.
1973	Thomas Tilling acquires the remaining shares in Cornhill Insurance.
1974	Cornhill acquires Trafalgar Insurance.
1978	Cornhill becomes the first sponsor of Test Cricket in England.
1983	BTR buys Cornhill from Thomas Tilling.
1986	BTR sells Cornhill the company to Allianz AG.
1987	Cornhill Insurance buys British Reserve.
1994	Cornhill Insurance launches Cornhill Direct.
1996	Cornhill Insurance buys Petplan and acquires engineering insurer Ajax from Norwich Union.
1997	Allianz Cornhill Engineering formed following the merger of Cornhill's Engineering operations and Ajax.
1997	Broker Direct launched.
1998	Cornhill acquires AGF Insurance business in GB following Allianz's acquisition of majority shareholding in the French insurer AGF.
1999	DBI INsurance acquired.
2000	Cornhill sponsors the 131st, and final, Cornhill Test Match, which marked the first England series win over the West indies for over 30 years.
2003	Cornhill Insurance changes its name to Allianz Cornhill Insurance plc.
2004	Winner at British Insurance Awards - General Insurer of the Year 2004
2005	Winner at British Insurance Awards - General Insurer of the Year 2005
2005	Company celebrates its 100th birthday
2006	Specialist SME intermediary Premierline and mid to high net worth intermediary Home and Legacy are aquired.
2007	Changes name to Allianz