The Aviva name

Aviva became the new name for the former CGNU in July 2002. CGNU was formed in 2000 by the merger of Norwich Union and CGU, itself the result of the merger of Commercial Union and General Accident in 1998.

Aviva has grown from the merger of a number of businesses to become the fifth largest insurer in the world providing savings, investments and insurance to around 50 million customers. 

In June 2009 Norwich Union became Aviva and outside the UK, Aviva’s businesses in Ireland and Poland will complete the name change to Aviva in 2010.

This change is part of the transformation set out by Andrew Moss, chief executive, in October 2007 in the "One Aviva, twice the value" vision, which aims to maximise the company’s full potential as a global group. A consistent, recognisable name and branding across its markets around the world is an important part of Aviva’s strategy to succeed in an increasingly competitive and global marketplace.

Over the last few years, we’ve brought together more than 40 different trading names around the world under the Aviva brand. This creates opportunities for us to harness the benefits of our size and international capabilities.

Andrew Moss said:

“This is a key moment for Aviva. Over the past two years we have been working hard to bring Aviva businesses around the world closer together to maximise our full potential and to build the new Aviva around the needs of our customers. For our 54,000 staff across the world we’re bringing them together as one team under a common identity and together we are totally committed to making sure our move to a global brand brings many positive changes for our customers.”

“Aviva's trusted brand is one of our most valuable assets, particularly in the current economic environment when customers are looking for solid financial companies to save and invest with.  Now is the right time to invest in our brand so that it adequately reflects the improvements we’re making in the service we give to our customers.”