So arry, we (dicks) have been trained to not accept renewal prices, we've been trained to ring around, we've been trained NOT to fall for "deal's for now only Mr Dick" fake calls to action, & we've been trained to not consider the 'Freebies' we're offered like extra Legal Cover have any validity. BUT, - Not trained to value service, NOT trained to value cover differentials & NOT trained to understand or value 'Broker Advantages', as you phrase it. Who's the Teacher here, & who're the pupils.
Whilst I accept plenty of us ARE indeed dicks, I suspect your industry needs to examine itself 1st, before bemoaning the 'pupils' they make their money from. Most of the comments on this thread (& most other threads that feature Motor Insurance) talk of very poor service, NOT very good service, (admittedly influenced as ever by the Rule of 42) which either means the profits from motor insurance are so low they can't afford good staff, worthy training or functioning CRM's, or alternatively don't see a value in investing in these...
Like you though I suspect, I wince when I see comments saying (all) insurance is a rip-off, etc, the oft expressed feelings relating to spending on 'things ethereal' rather than a pint in your hand or steering wheel in the palm. That is, until a car is stolen, suffers 'Rapid Corrosion', or modified by impact, then assuming the insurance Co. deal with the claim equitably & with pace, - value is suddenly perceived!
R.