Not so long ago, only banks and traditional insurance companies offered financial or insurance products, yet today it may often seem as if even the local corner shop is offering financial products. That's not quite true, of course, but many more companies do offer financial products than used to be the case, and it can sometimes be difficult to decide who is offering the best deal.

And, while Marks & Spensers once offered mostly fashion products, with the only hint of a credit card being when you paid for your shopping at the checkout, today you'll find as good a deal on M&S credit cards as you will with the latest range of M&S fashion.

In fact, these days Mark's & Spencer, through its M&S Financial Services website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Car Insurance, M&S Property Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Financial Services. Not least of these is Marks and Spencer Standard Car Insurance. With M&S Financial Services you can keep the cost of your Car Insurance down by choosing Standard cover, over Premier Cover. UK Vehicle can then be added to your policy as optional extras, if you wanted to.

If you're thinking of adding both Breakdown Cover and Motor Legal Protection, then it would cost less to upgrade to Premier Car Insurance cover from M&S Financial Services, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Car Insurance policies on offer from Marks & Spencer, and these include: Courtesy car (subject to availability); Loss, theft, damage and destruction of vehicle; Loss or damage to personal property in vehicle; Personal accident cover up to £10,000; Windscreen cover (£75 excess); a 24 hour claims service, and many other options as standard on each policy. In short, with Car Insurance from M&S Financial Services, you get more, and you pay less.

Contrary to popular opinion, not every insurance company is out to get you, and it's not every insurance company that will disect the fine-print until they find some way of denying your insurance claim. However, you do need to shop around for the financial products and insurance policies that are the best suited for your individual needs.

That's why insurance policies, and other financial products, from Marks and Spencer are so useful. M&S Financial Services financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks and Spencers a profit, but there is no denying that they are also very good value for money, offering many features as standard which you'd often need to pay extra for at other insurance companies.

Take, for example, Property Insurance policies. Usually, UK Property Insurance policies have limits on particular types of items such as freezer contents, garden furniture and outdoor toys, outbuildings or cars, etc. These restrictions are called inner limits. However, the only inner limits on the M&S Financial Services Property Insurance policy are £500 for cash; £2m for property-owners and personal liability; £10m for domestic employees liability and £40,000 for tenants liability. Even better is the fact that you're likely to pay no more for M&S Financial Services Property Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

Mother of Pearl Photo Frame 10 x 15cm (4 x 6"), at Marks and Spencers
Mother of pearl border Aperture: 10 x 15cm (6 x 4''), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Cotton Rich Bootleg Plain Jeans, at Marks and Spencer
Flattering and fabulous, bootcuts make legs look longer and are kind to curves. This pair sits on the waist and is designed to give a shapely feminine silhouette. Added stretch gives the perfect fit

Sony RDR-HXD890 HDD DVD Recorder, at Marks & Spencers
Memory 160GB capacity for a max recording of 455 hours (23 in HQ+ recording mode) onto the Hard Disk Drive Integrated Digital & Analogue Tuner: Provides access to all Freeview™ terrestrial digital channels, analogue channels and radio stations (subject to coverage in your area) HD Upscaling: Creates HD images from a non-HD source Region Code: Region 2 Pause Live TV: Pause live TV and press play whenever you're ready Series Link: With the touch of a button your recorder will automatically record all episodes of your favourite series and you will not miss anything during the season x-Pict Story: An enhanced Photo Slide Show feature which enables you to frame your photos with the appropriate look and feel through sound and transition effects, which can then be burnt to DVD USB Ports: 2 USB ports allow connection to PictBridge™ compatible printer, digital camera or other USB storage devices HDD Cam Connection: Record your memories onto the Hard Disk Drive and choose between different modes Digital Music Jukebox: Store and enjoy up to 999 of your favourite songs Connectors: HDMI, 2 x USB, S-Video Output, Composite Video Output, Digital Audio Output, S-Video, 2 Scart, G-link Dimensions: H7.5 x W43 x D29cm M&S is a member of the WEEE Distributor Take Back Scheme. Recycling your electronic waste has never been easier! Click here for more information Please Note: Freeview™ is not yet available to the whole of the UK. We advise that you check that your postcode area can receive the Freeview signal before ordering this product Please Note: To receive the full range of Freeview™ channels, customers should use an outdoor wide band aerial. Suitable portable TV aerials can be used to receive Freeview but the quality of the reception is dependent on the quality of the product and the signal area. Due to these factors you may not receive all Freeview channels when using an indoor aerial

Plain Full Slip, at Marks & Spencer
A fashion essential you can't do without! This slip enhances the look of dresses and stops them clinging or becoming see-through under light. All our slips are cling resistant and come in a number of lengths

Electronic Decision Maker Husband Birthday Card, at M&S
Cover text: To my, Gorgeous, Charming, Hunky, Cheeky, Fabulous, Handsome, Husband Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx size: 215 x 150mm

Per Una Brow and Lash Gel, at Marks and Spencer
Non-flaking Conditioning Hypoallergenic Carmine free and GMO free Animal Free - No ingredients of animal origin

The Waterfall Knee Length Pencil Skirt, at Marks & Spensers
This chic skirt is a wardrobe essential with a ruffled front making it a striking look for day or night. Pencil skirts flatter your curves and look fabulous with heels and pretty blouses

Formula Calming Extra Dry Skin Cream & Vitamin E, at Marks & Spencers
Contains camomile and vitamin E Especially formulated for extra dry/sensitive skin Hypoallergenic 50ml

Earth Spa Skin Softening Shower Drench, at M&S
Refreshes Soothes Hydrates 250ml

Autograph Puccini Sofa Pad Set, at Marks and Spencer
Plain seat pad set Suitable for all-weather use Seats and seat pads sold separately. Seats pictured are not included This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Butterfly Necklace & Hair Clips Set, at Marks & Spencers
Set of 3 Necklace with adjustable clasp fastening and butterfly pendant 2 butterfly detail hair clips Suitable for age 3+ Length: 41cm Extender: 8cm

Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Hooded Top, at M & S
Cute and cosy, this long sleeve hooded top is made from soft cotton to keep him feeling comfy

Global Traveller Large Rollercase, at Mark & Spensers
Free 5 year guarantee Make transporting your belongings a hassle-free experience with the super lightweight and durable design of this hardwearing rollercase

Woodspice Grooming Bag, at Marks & Spenser
3 part set Toiletry bag Shower gel 50ml ingredients: Aqua, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate, Polyquaternium-39, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Cocamide DEA, Parfum, Sodium Chloride, Benzophenone-3, Citric Acid, Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Magnesium Chloride, Magnesium Nitrate, Sodium Sulfate, Eugenol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Linalool, Butylphenyl Methylpropional, Limonene, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, CI 42051, CI 14700, CI 19140 Moisturising aftershave 50ml ingredients: Aqua, Parfum, Octyldodecanol, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Cyclohexasiloxane, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Polysorbate 60, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Carbomer, Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Extract, Allantoin, Bisabolol, Sodium Hydroxide, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Citronellol, Coumarin, Eugenol, Geraniol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Hydroxycitronellal, Hydroxyisohexyl 3-Cyclohexene Carboxaldehyde, Linalool, Butylphenyl, Methylpropional, Evernia Prunastri, Limonene, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Ethylparaben

Ceramic Canoe Potpourri Bowl, at Marks & Spencers
Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Mesh Side Multiway Underwired Plunge Bra, at Marks and Spencer
This multiway plunge bra is padded and has added stretch for comfort. For the ultimate in versatility this bra can be worn in 5 ways: conventionally, halterneck, cross back, strapless and one shoulder

Chrome Glass Stack Floor Lamp with Fabric Shade, at Marks and Spencers
Cylinder fabric shade Stacked glass cylinder detail Chrome plated Round base Dimensions: H 161 x Diam 40cm Bulb: 100W GLS or 21W CFL, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Signature Grapefruit & Ginger Burner & Refresher Oil, at Mark & Spensers
Grapefruit and ginger fragrance 15ml, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cashmere V-Neck Jumper, at Marks and Spencers
This luxurious v-neck jumper is made from pure cashmere for ultimate softness and comfort. Innovative construction helps it to be machine washable. Part of our exclusive Autograph collection

Urbino Armchair, at Marks and Spencer
H92 x W100 x D102cm Seat H48cm, arm H67cm, top back rail H77cm (all dimensions are approximate) Seat cushions filled with shape-retaining foam - superior quality foam with a high density for added comfort and support Other cushions filled with polyester fibre. Gives a soft sit with a lived-in look, which will soften and relax even further with use. Fibre is sewn into channels within the interior to prevent settlement in one area of the cushion Fabric options feature reversible cushions Frame made from solid hardwood. All main joints are glued and screwed to give the frame strength Frames are rigorously tested with 95kg weight equivalent and exceed standards set for heavy domestic use Solid birch feet with a dark finish All of our fabrics are treated with Stain-Defence™ - a stain resistant finish - at no extra cost. Fabrics are tested for resistance to wear and fading Detailed care instructions are included Free eco-friendly home delivery. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more Free swatch service: Order up to 6 free swatch samples of any fabric to help you choose your upholstery by calling 0845 603 1 603 Please note: Images displayed here act as a guide and may not be representative of the finished item. Fabrics are overlayed onto model images, so actual seams and pattern match may differ from what is shown. Leather furniture, in particular, has more seams that fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Maternity Contrast Piping Camisole Top, at M+S
Pretty and feminine, this contrast piping camisole top is designed to flatter you and your bump. Added stretch and a clever cut give a neat, comfortable fit with room for growth. Enjoy your pregnancy in style!

Junior Sudoku to Test Your Brain Book, at Marks & Spensers
Solve more than 80 sudoku puzzles to test your brain power and keep you entertained for hours! You'll find a step-by-step guide to solving sudoku puzzles, 20 smaller puzzles to get you started, as well a full-sized grids to tackle as you become more confident. Be part of the craze that is sweeping the nation and see how much fun 'Junior Sudoku' can be!

Ruffle Neck Tankini, at Marks&Spencer
Feminine and fashionable, this flattering tankini is designed in the latest shape. Make a splash!

M&S iPod® & MP3 Speaker Dock with CD Player & Radio Alarm, at Marks and Spencer
iPod dock MP3 Dock (via USB Slot) CD Player FM Radio Alarm Clock (either Buzzer, iPod tracks or FM Radio) Connects to other audio devices, 5 ways to wake up and snooze function Compatible with all generations of iPod and other MP3 players - classic, nano and touch iPods, iPod shuffle, MP3 players and other external audio devices when used in conjunction with stereo mini plug cord Charges iPod when docked Amplifier power output: 4W x 2, 1KHz 10% THD, 8 ohm Tuner band: FM, tuning range: 87.5 ~ 108.0 MHz, frequency step: 50 KHz Input impedance AUX input: 10 kohms Input terminal: external DC IN (for AC adapter), AUX IN AC adapter: input: AC 100 -240V, 50/60 Hz, output: DC 12V Power source: DC 12V 2A (external DC IN) Dimensions (approx): W25.6 x H12.1 x D14.5cm Weight: 1.526 kg M&S is a member of the WEEE Distributor Take Back Scheme. Recycling your electronic waste has never been easier! Click here for more information

Artificial Mini Orchid in Square Mirror Glass Vase, at M+S
Artificial orchid Mirror glass vase Ready made arrangement that needs no after care H58cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una 3/4 Sleeve Dolly Cardigan, at MarksandSpencer
A stunning 3/4 sleeve cardigan in a soft knitted fabric featuring a single decorative button

Grosgrain Holiday Trim Hat, at M&S
Keep ahead of the trends with this contemporary sunhat, an essential look for style in the sun

Leather Reversible Edge Belt, at Marks and Spenser
Add a smart finishing touch with this reversible leather belt

Long Sleeve Stripe Oblong Cardigan, at Marks and Spencers
Elegant and feminine, this oblong cardigan is made with comfortable breathable cotton. A modern style essential

Total Support Non-Wired Built-Up Lace Shoulder Bra, at Marks and Spencer
Soft and comfortable, this lightweight bra is designed to give gentle all-round support and uplift. It's secure but lightweight and features extra wide straps

M&S Financial Services Insurance: There are, quite literally, hundreds of companies in the UK from whom you can purchase insurance. Whether you're looking for the best deal on Car Insurance, buildings and contents insurance, or even wedding insurance, it doesn't take long to find a company that will sell you a policy.

However, not all insurance companies, and certainly not all insurance policies, are the same. What may be standard on one insurance policy may be an optional extra on another, for instance; Car Insurance and Property Insurance are especially like this.

For example, most home and contents insurance policies either ask you to provide the total cost of rebuilding your home plus the total value of your home contents, or they will set an upper limit. This may seem fine at the time, but, in the event of a claim on your Property Insurance policy, the values act as maximum limits, and so you may, in effect, be under-insured and not receive the full value of your insurance claim.

Fortunately, M&S Financial Services Insurance does not have these insurance limits, excepting liability and cash cover, and therefore you can not be under-insured.