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 M+S 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 Marks and 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 Motor Insurance, M&S Buildings & Contents Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

M&S Financial Services offers a variety of financial and insurance products, but Motor Insurance is something that almost everyone needs - at least if you own a car. Unfortunately there are so many companies offering Motor Insurance today that, after a while, one policy may begin to look much like the next.

Thinking that most Motor Insurance policies are much the same is usually a bad idea. At worst it can be a very expensive mistake - this is when you find out that your Motor Insurance policy doesn't actually cover you for what you thought it did, or it takes your Motor Insurance company months and months to argue over whether to pay you or not. Fortunately M&S Financial Services Motor Insurance is not like that at all, and when you compare M&S Motor Insurance to the competition then it stacks up quite nicely.

For example, here are just some of the options which come as standard with M&S 5 Star Premier cover Motor Insurance (correct at May 2009), which are quite often not included with comparable Motor Insurance plans from companies such as Direct Line, Sainsburys, or Tesco Direct:

• Personal UK and European Breakdown Cover automatically included
• Comprehensive cover for trips abroad in the European Union - up to 90 days per trip
• Courtesy car during approved repairs automatically included
• Cover for Motor Legal Protection automatically included

So, it is clear that, besides being good value, M&S Motor Insurance also provides much more extensive cover than some of the top competitors. Additionally, you don't even need to be behind the wheel to benefit from M&S Financial Services UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

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 Motor 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; Motor Insurance and Buildings & Contents 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 Buildings & Contents 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.

Airflex™ Cool Lace Up Apron Shoes, at Marks & Spencer
Round toe Stitch detail Lace up Unique Airflex™ airflow system for unbeatable comfort

2 Pairs of Cotton Rich Plain Tights, at Marks & Spensers
Stock up on stylish essentials with this pack of 2 cotton rich plain tights

Miele S7280 Allervac Upright Vacuum Cleaner, at Marks and Spencer
6 litre dust bag capacity 1800W Sealed system for optimum filtration 14.5 metre operating radius The Active HEPA filter ensures air leaving the cleaner is free of allergens and odours Dust bag change indicator - signals when the dustbag needs to be replaced Rotary Dial to adjust the suction power for different floorings Telescopic stainless steel tube Smooth running 360 swivel castors. Castors mounted on steel axles to ensure excellent maneouvrability An Upholstery nozzle, Dusting brush and Crevice nozzle are all stored at the rear of the cleaner Weight: 9.5kg Dimensions: H1160.6 x W349.3 x D377.9mm 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 Free 2 year guarantee, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Luxury Total Support Classic Bra, at Marks & Spenser
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

Autograph Bone China Cereal Bowl, at Marks & Spenser
Plain Diameter: 23cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Younger Boys' Multi Stud Belt, at Marks and Spenser
Fun and fashionable, this multi stud belt adds a stylish finishing touch

Per Una Multi Strand Animal Bead Necklace, at Marks & Spensers
Clasp fastening Multi strand Mixed animal print bead design Necklace length: 46cm

Gardening Kit, at Marks & Spencer
Handy wipe clean carry bag for all garden essentials Painted metal watering can with rose Wood handled metal gardening fork, trowel, rake with hanging loops This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Single Sprung-Edge Divan with 2 Large + 2 Small Drawers & M400 - Medium Mattress, at Mark & Spensers
Double mattress (4ft 6in): W135 x L190 cm King size mattress (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super king size mattress (6ft): W180 x L200cm Single divan (3ft): W90 x L190cm Double divan (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King size divan (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super king size divan (6ft): W180 x L200cm Mattress depth: 24cm Divan height: 41cm Large drawer: H14 x W78 x D52cm Small drawer: H14 x W40 x D52cm Mattress filling made from resilient foam and polyester fibre Further filling layers of cotton and lambs wool keeps you warm in summer and cool in winter Two rows of hand side-stitching give the mattress edge-to-edge support. This allows you full use of the sleeping surface Individually pocketed springs Pocket sprung mattresses give a flexible feel Mattress spring count: 1054 Can be used with any mattress All mattresses and divans are anti-allergy protected Mattress does not require turning All mattresses and divans are manufactured in the UK A sample mattress is subjected to 3 rigorous tests to ensure it remains comfortable. Surface fabric is rubbed 15,000 times against a hard surface to test resistance to wear. Mattress is pounded by a machine 80,000 times to replicate the movements of a human torso and subjected to 20,000 rolls of a roller machine to simulate the rolling motion of a sleeping person 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cashmere Cropped Cardigan, at Marks & Spencers
Sophisticated and modern, this scoop neck cardigan is made from pure cashmere for the ultimate in luxurious softness

Globe Collection - Mini Table Lamp, at Marks and Spencer
Fabric cylinder shade Glass globe base H37cm x Diam 25cm Bulb: 240V~ SES 60W GLS or 11W CFL, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sweet Bergamot Filled Candle, at Mark's & Spencer
Tinted glass holder Sweet bergamot fragrance Burns up to 45 hours, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Leather Stitch Detail Belt, at Mark's & Spencer
This leather stitch belt is ideal for wearing with casual styles

Wife Dress Anniversary Card, at Marks&Spencer
Cover text: To My Beautiful Wife on Our Anniversary Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx size: Unfolded: 215 x 150mm

Kodak Zx1 Pocket Video Camera, at Marks & Spencer
Sensor type: 1 / 4.5type 1.6 MP CMOS Lens: 4.1 mm, f/2.8, fixed focus Zoom: 2X digital Display: 2.0 in. LCD Storage: 128 MB internal memory*, SD/SDHC card expansion slot Focus system: fixed Focus modes: normal Focus range: 27.6 in. (70 cm)infinity White balance: auto Video capture: H.264 (MOV), AAC LC Video quality: HD60: 720p at 60 fps16:9; HD: 720p at 30 fps16:9 (default); VGA: 640 4804:3 Still format: JPEG Picture quality: 3 MP (stills, interpolated) Playback mode: FF & REW: 2X, 4X, 8X, 16X; slow motion FF & REW: 1/2X, 1/4X, 1/8X, 1/16X Microphone: mono Speaker: yes I/O interface: USB 2.0 (high speed); HDMI output; AV output; DC in; SD/SDHC card slot Tripod mount: 1/4 in. standard Power: KODAK Li-Ion Rechargeable Digital Camera Battery KLIC-8000; KODAK Lithium Digital Camera Battery CRV3; (2) Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries; (2) Alkaline Batteries; DC-in for 5 V AC Adapter Dimensions: 5 11 2cm Weight: 90g (without batteries) Package contents: KODAK Zx1 Pocket Video Camera; (2) AA Pre-Charged Ni-MH Rechargeable Batteries; Battery charger; HDMI, AV, and USB cables; Wrist strap; Camera pouch; Designer cover; User Guide; On-camera software: ARCSOFT MEDIA IMPRESSION Software for Kodak (PC only) 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 This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Girls' Fashion Schoolwear - Stain Defence™ Bootleg Trousers, at Marks and Spenser
Fashionable as well as practical, these stylish trousers are treated with Stain Defence™ which repels everyday stains. Stretch fabric gives a comfortable and shapely fit

Bandeau Underwired Multiway Bra, at Marks and Spencers
This versatile bra can be worn 5 ways: conventionally, halterneck, cross back, strapless and one shoulder. Designed for a comfortable flattering fit, secure support and great flexibility

Ingredients Cocoa Foaming Bath Essence, at Marks and Spencers
Cocoa fragrance 500ml

Collezione Pure Silk Woven Stripe Tie, at Mark's & Spencer
Stylish and luxurious, this pure silk tie is part of Collezione, a sophisticated menswear collection inspired by Italian tailoring

Classic Duckling & Bear Record Book, at Marks & Spensers
Contains: 1 record book Approx size: 285 x 220mm

Sports Sandals, at Marks and Spencers
Rip tape fastening Open toe Flat sole Contrast stitching

Cotton Rich Spot Print Vest & Knickers Set, at Marks and Spencer
Soft and comfortable, this spot print bra and knicker set is made from cool, breathable stretch cotton. It's designed to give gentle support and a flattering fit

Autograph Sport Eau de Toilette, at Marks and Spencer
100ml Sporty fragrance This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Pure Cotton 'The Muppets' Bodysuit, at Marks & Spenser
Cute and practical, this bodysuit is great value. Popper fastenings and envelope necklines make quick changes easy and the soft cotton fabric will keep her feeling comfy and happy

Big & Tall Single Pleat Microcheck Trousers with Wool, at Marks and Spencers
Smart and stylish, these trousers are made from a hardwearing wool blend with stretch. An ideal choice for work or everyday wear. Perfectly proportioned for big and tall men

18 Cocktails Birthday Card, at Marks & Spenser
Cover text: Happy Eighteenth Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx size: 150 mm x 150 mm

Panasonic Blu-ray Home Cinema System, at Marks and Spenser
Output Power: 1000W (RMS) Audio: Dolby Digital Decoder, DTS Decoder, Audio D/A Converter, Dynamic Range Compression Blue-Ray Video features: PHL Reference Chorma Processor Plus, Picture Adjustment, 1080/24p Playback, High Precision 4:4:4 Multi-Format Playback: DVD-Video, DVD-RAM, DVD-RW/ -R (DL), +RW,+R (DL), CD, CD-DA, CD-R/RW, MP3, JPEG, MPEG4, DivX USB Terminal Connectivity: MP3, JPEG, MPEG4 and DivX Input: Analogue audio, Digital audio, Ethernet terminal, Wireless terminal, USB terminal Output: HDMI, Video, Component video out (Y, PB, PR), Phone out SD memory card [SDHC/SD]: AVCHD/ JPEG/ MPEG2 Television signal system: PAL625/50, PAL525/60, NTSC VIERA link:HDAVI Control 4 Dimensions: Set W440 X H63 X D327mm, subwoofer W181 x H361 x D315, speaker (front) W92 x H1280 x D81mm, speaker (center) W250 x H94 x D81, speaker (surround) W92 x H128 x D81 Weight: 4kg Universal dock for Ipod Whisper-mode surround Digital amplifier Digital synthesizer tuner 4 EQ presets Viera cast Smart Setup Bamboo cone speakers Ecology and economy circuit

2 DD-G Cotton Blend Centre Bow Detail Bras, at Marks & Spencers
Soft and comfortable, these bras are specially designed for fuller busts. They're underwired and structured to give great support and a flattering enhanced shape

Collezione Pure Wool Single Breasted 2 Button Jacket, at Marks and Spencers
Italian tailoring is renowned for its sophisticated style. Each collezione suit is designed with that same passion, using the finest fabrics and best tailoring techniques. Inspired by Italian flair, we've lavished time and care on this garment to give you a feeling of luxury like no other

Sunflower Race Kit, at Marks and Spencers
This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Financial Services. Not least of these is Marks and Spenser Standard Motor Insurance. With M&S Financial Services you can keep the cost of your Motor 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 Motor Insurance cover from M&S Financial Services, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Motor Insurance policies on offer from Marks & Spenser, 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 Motor Insurance from M&S Money Direct, you get more, and you pay less.