A Malton-based insurance business has been named one of the best places to work in the UK by The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2025 list.
ALA Insurance, which employs 11 staff, earned its spot in the Small Organisation category of the national ranking. The company specialises in GAP insurance, extended warranty products, and policies including cycle insurance and breakdown cover.
Founded in 1991 by Simon and Debra England, ALA is known for its straightforward and customer-first approach to insurance. Its team does not work on commission, which the company says helps create a more relaxed and transparent experience for customers. ALA describes its service as “insurance from the kind kind, not the pushy kind.”
Simon England, founder and Managing Director, said:
“I’m absolutely thrilled that ALA has been recognised in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work list. It’s a real testament to our incredible team who go above and beyond for our customers every day. Insurance can often be overwhelming and full of jargon — but we’ve built our business around honesty, clarity, and doing what’s right.”
The recognition follows ALA’s recent win for Best Customer Service in Financial Services at the UK Customer Experience Awards 2024.
Employee wellbeing is a key part of the company’s culture. Staff benefits include free access to therapy, a wellbeing programme, hybrid working, birthday leave, and paid volunteering days. In response to rising living costs, the company also offers free staff transport from the local train station to the office.
Results from a recent internal survey show a 95% wellbeing score and 93% job satisfaction among employees, well above the industry average.
ALA’s inclusion in the national list puts a spotlight on North Yorkshire’s business community and the impact smaller companies can have in creating positive, people-focused workplaces.
