Why does a pet retailer offer insurance products? With Christopher Meyer-Mölleringhof from Fressnapf

In this Embedded Finance Review Podcast episode, Lars Markull talks with Christopher Meyer-Mölleringhof, who leads the pet insurance business at Fressnapf MaxiZoo, Europe's largest pet care retailer. Christopher brings a unique perspective, combining his background in insurance innovation with his current role, transforming a traditional pet retailer into a comprehensive pet care ecosystem. The conversation explores how non-financial brands can successfully venture into embedded insurance, using Fressnapf's journey as a compelling case study.

The Evolution of Pet Insurance at Fressnapf

• Launch of co-branded insurance products in Germany (Summer 2022) in partnership with insurtech Petolo

• Recent expansion into France with the white-label solution "MaxiZoo Assurance" (Late 2023)

• Focus on comprehensive health insurance for dogs and cats, plus liability insurance for dogs

• Integration of additional benefits like free digital vet consultations and exclusive customer discounts

Multi-Channel Distribution Strategy

• Digital-first approach with simple, two-minute mobile purchasing process

• Integration across all brand touchpoints: e-commerce, mobile app, newsletters

• Presence in over 900 physical stores in Germany

• Testing of in-store digital solutions for direct insurance purchases

• Emphasis on seamless customer experience across all channels

Innovation in Embedded Insurance

• New approach to embedded insurance beyond traditional product bundling

• Leveraging brand trust and existing customer relationships

• Deep integration with Fressnapf's broader pet care ecosystem

• Focus on product innovation based on direct customer insights

• Ability to create customized insurance solutions through white-label partnerships

Future Outlook and Market Potential

• Plans for geographic expansion across European markets

• Potential for new product innovations including pet-related credit products

• Development of prevention plans and funeral allowance products

• Scalable blueprint for other markets through white-label solution

• Growing market opportunity in pet insurance sector

Key Insights for Embedded Finance

• Traditional retailers can successfully enter insurance space by leveraging existing customer relationships

• Non-insurance companies may be better positioned for product innovation due to customer insights

• Importance of ecosystem integration for sustainable competitive advantage

• Embedded insurance as more than a trend, with significant growth expected in next 5-10 years

• Opportunity for non-insurance players to become "quasi-insurance companies" through strategic partnerships

This episode provides valuable insights for traditional retailers considering expansion into financial services and insurance companies looking to adapt to changing market dynamics. Christopher's experience demonstrates how companies can successfully combine retail expertise with financial services to create innovative solutions that benefit the business and its customers.