Twenty travel companies have signed up with specialist travel insurer Acumus Insurance Solutions to become Appointed Representatives (AR) in compliance with new insurance regulations.

From January 1, 2009, the Financial Services Authority will regulate all travel insurance sold alongside holidays – known as Connected Travel Insurance – and require companies that sell it to be authorised.

Companies must have applied for AR status by November 15, 2008, to guarantee they can continue selling CTI on January 1.

Acumus has signed up companies including P&O Ferries, Jet2.com, Confetti, Debenhams Travel, Butlins, Haven Holiday and Shearings and is also in discussions with high street travel agents.

It will apply for AR status on behalf of the firms and create compliant product, system, and online training courses to enable company employees to be able to continue to sell travel insurance after January.

John Bibby, managing director of Acumus Travel, said: “We aim to get our partners’ staff ready for 2009 and ensure that ancillary revenue generated by the sale of travel insurance is retained.

“Travel firms have the chance to capture a slice of the £42 billion general insurance market, following changes in the FSA rules.

“Becoming an Appointed Representative significantly widens the range of insurance products travel companies can offer, as well as securing and growing current travel insurance revenue.”