The Group’s strength lies in the diversity of its offer and the agency network represents the most significant element thereof. Assicoop corporate agencies operate alongside the private agencies. There are 11 companies operating locally (8 in Emilia Romagna and 3 in Tuscany) owned by Unipol itself, by several local cooperatives and some of the historical member organizations of Unipol. The results achieved in 2008 witness a significant growth in terms of total premium income: almost € 627m, up 7.7% over 2007. The Assicoop agencies also represent an important business and social reality. They employ over a thousand people altogether, including a significant network of financial advisors. There is a strong link with the Group Bank, which has 55 branches integrated with as many insurance agencies operating under the Unipol brand.