There has been an significant increase in the number of businesses looking to switch their workplace pension provider over the past year, according to new figures.
Aviva says it has seen an 80 per cent increase in auto-enrolment switching enquiries from small and medium sized businesses.
Aviva says that the vast majority of these enquiries are coming via advisers, although there has been an increase in the number of businesses making enquiries themselves.
The ‘primary market’ for auto enrolment started in 2012 when AE was first introduced for large businesses first. Smaller businesses were gradually rolled into this scheme over the next five years.
Aviva points out that many SMEs have now had their schemes for a number of years, providing them with time to assess if it is delivering what they require.
Advisers stand to benefit from this secondary market, with businesses looking for help assess the AE market, and find the most suitable product for their circumstances.
Aviva head of workplace savings and retirement, Malcolm Goodwin says: “When AE was first introduced some businesses will have viewed it as a hassle – something to just get done and out of the way. But since then, some of those businesses will have seen major expansion or may have changed their view on the importance of workplace benefits.
“Whatever the reason, we are seeing a major increase in the number of enquiries from businesses and their advisers who are realising they have the freedom to switch if they aren’t happy with their current provider.
“So far we have seen enquiries rise by 80 per cent compared with last year. We expect that figure to continue to grow.”
