UK broker Swinton Insurance is cutting 900 staff after putting 84 branches and a call centre under review.

It says 90% of its customers now buy insurance over the phone or online, and the roles will be cut by the end of the year.

Swinton, which employs 3000 people across the UK, has pledged to move affected staff into other parts of the business where possible.

“We are reshaping our distribution model to ensure we continue to meet the changing needs of our customers in an effective and efficient way,” CEO Gilles Normand said.

“This change is difficult for all colleagues, especially those who are directly impacted by the proposals, but is vital if we are to remain competitive in a challenging insurance market.”