Zurich and Loyalty Marketing launch digital insurance in Japan's popular loyalty program, Ponta

Zurich Insurance Japan General Insurance (Zurich) today announced a partnership with Tokyo-based data marketing company Loyalty Marketing to provide digital insurance through its popular loyalty rewards program, Ponta. Backed by Mitsubishi Corp and KDDI Corp and more, Ponta is one of Japan’s largest loyalty programs, serving over 117 million members (as of April 2023).

Since 2013, Zurich and Loyalty Marketing have offered a suite of insurance products to Ponta members through direct mail. Tapping into Ponta's significant, digital-savvy customer base, and reflecting the shift in customer preferences to online channels, the two companies have collaborated to offer insurance digitally.

The propositions, designed under Zurich Edge, will be rolled out to Ponta customers directly via the members app. Eligible Ponta members will have access to two personal accident protection options: the “Ponta Free Gift Insurance,” which Ponta will provide to its members at no cost for coverage against injuries such as traffic accidents. Members can upgrade to a paid plan: “Ponta Comprehensive Protection Plan,” which provides greater coverage and will also allow customers to earn points equivalent to 1% of their monthly insurance premium. This upgrade also offers flexibility to customers to tailor their coverage to include other family members.

The experience is fully powered by the Zurich Edge platform, which seamlessly integrates into Ponta’s digital app and website, allowing customers to access and receive information about the new products digitally through their preferred channel. Registering and applying for the product is also easily done through the Ponta website which allows for simplified member authentication and digitally processed payments, ensuring a smooth and convenient process from start to finish.

Masachika Nishiura, CEO, Zurich Japan General Insurance said: “From personalized interactions to seamless transactions, technology is playing a pivotal role in shaping how we engage with customers, anticipate their needs, and deliver products that meet their evolving demands. Partnering with Loyalty Marketing and tapping into Ponta’s huge member network in Japan allows us to push the boundaries of customer engagement in insurance, building trust with potential customers by allowing them to experience our products and services at no cost.”