Health cash plan provider Health Shield has reported a 9% increase in new business for 2013.
The insurer delivered £6.4 million in new business sales and said with the depressed economy, many businesses are struggling to improve like for like sales.
Jonathan Burton, chief executive of Health Shield said: "We gained over 55,000 new members, representing a 15% overall increase, which was a record year and breaks the 50,000 barrier for the first time. We now cover more than 173,000 contributing members and their families."
The firm's total membership was up 15%, with the numbers of members up 16%. New company schemes increased by two-thirds (63%.)
Burton added: "The voluntary market was tough in 2013 as household finances needed to prioritise their spending, although there have been recent signs of improvement.
"Despite stiff competition and the sluggish economy, Health Shield managed to continue to grow member numbers and new business volumes, in line with its business plan, whilst further embedding risk management."
