By Matthew White

Sun Staff Writer

mwhite@evesun.com

NEW BERLIN – Given the nature of the insurance industry, it's easy to forget that they play an integral role on the local economy since they are a service provider. Unlike businesses in the manufacturing sector, where measurables are easily detected, the product of the insurance industry is invisible.

As one of the largest employers in Chenango County, The Preferred Mutual Insurance Company prides itself on service and value, which equates to increased sales and profitability through customer satisfaction.

In Strategic Study conducted in 2013 entitled "Growth and Profit Leaders in Personal Lines Insurance," Conning, Inc. – an investment management company for the global insurance industry – determined that Preferred Mutual Insurance Company was one of only 18 companies in the United States that outperformed peers from both a growth and profitability standpoint over a 10-year period.