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 and Spencer 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 & Spensers, through its M+S Money website, offer a range of financial products which would not look out of place in many banks, including M&S Car Insurance, M&S Buildings Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

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

Thinking that most Car 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 Car Insurance policy doesn't actually cover you for what you thought it did, or it takes your Car Insurance company months and months to argue over whether to pay you or not. Fortunately M+S Money Car Insurance is not like that at all, and when you compare M&S Car 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 Car Insurance (correct at May 2009), which are quite often not included with comparable Car Insurance plans from companies such as Direct Line, Sainsburys, or Tesco:

• 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 Car 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 Money UK and European Breakdown Cover, since it covers you as a passenger too.

Marks and Spencers may not necessarily be the first name that springs to mind when you're thinking about renewing your Buildings Insurance or Car Insurance, but Mark & Spensers do indeed offer a comprehensive selection of financial products, all of which are competitively priced, and all of which you can purchase directly from the M+S Money website. With a simple, no-hassle service, you can compare features between a number of M&S Money Direct products and competitor's products, and sign up in just a few minutes.

Whether you're looking for savings products or M+S Money loans, credit cards or Buildings Insurance - besides a number of other insurance products, M+S Money can save you both time and money, with comprehensive information available at a click.

Free insurance quotes are available online for all of M+S Money insurance products (Buildings Insurance, Car Insurance, Travel Insurance, Wedding Insurance and Pet Insurance), or you may call if you wish to on the telephone number provided. Suffice to say that there is also plenty of information which you can download for each of the Marks and Spencer insurance products in document format too.

Grow Your Own Vegetables, at MarksandSpencer
This kit contains everything you need to grow your own great tasting vegetables at home or on your allotment.

Round Face Faux Crocodile Print Watch, at Mark & Spencers
Round face Metallic rim Analouge Large numerals Faux crocodile print strap

Pure Linen Embroidered Ginko Cushion, at MarksandSpencer
Square shape Embroidered design Hand sequins linen cushion with feather inner Lined L50 x W50cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Short Sleeve Tribal Tier Top with Angora, at M & S
A feminine scoop neck top featuring a pleated bib front and frill cap sleeves

Formula Age Defence Revitalising Day Cream + Vitamin C, at Marks and Spenser
SPF15 Contains vitamin C and white tea Helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles Hypoallergenic 50ml

Pure Linen Long Sleeve Shirt, at M & S
This fashionable shirt features a stylish pintuck fagot design for a fab contemporary look

Summer Dress Card, at Marks & Spencer
Cover text: Wishing you a wonderful birthday Inside message: Blank for your own message Approx size: 230 x 114mm

3 Pure Cotton Stripe Design Trunks, at Marks and Spenser
Made from soft breathable cotton, these comfy trunks are ideal for everyday wear

2 Cotton Rich Non-Wired Maternity Bras, at Marks&Spencer
Complete with wide adjustable straps and non-wired to accommodate your changing shape, this great bra offers gentle shaping and support for those moments when you need it the most. Pack of 2 - Cream Mix (1 cream and 1 pink) or Black Mix (1 black and 1 white)

Indian Summer Leaf Embroidered Cushion, at Marks & Spencers
L50 x W50cm Square Leaf embroidered design, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Diamanté Square Photo Frame 17 x 13cm (4 x 6"), at Marks & Spencers
Celebrate those special memories in timeless style with this contemporary glittering photo frame

Le Cortiglie Falanghina 2007 - Case of 12, at Marks & Spenser
Style: Full bodied Grape variety: Falanghina, 10% Trebbiano di Soave Country of origin: Italy Closure: Synthetic closure Suitable for vegetarians and vegans Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 12.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.4 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.6 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Older Boys' Buckle Wellie Boots, at Marks & Spencer
Wellie style Round toe Buckle fastening Low heel Plain Lined

Philips 57'' FL7404 Full HD LCD TV, at Marks&Spencer
HD Ready 1080p: High Definition Multimedia Interface™ (HDMI) connections make your TV a multimedia centrepiece. Connect HD digital devices like disc players, game consoles, Digital Camcoder and satellite dish components into the rear connection for displaying an HD source on an HDTV Display: 57 inch LCD TV Contrast Ratios: Dynamic contrast 80,000:1 Integrated Digital and Cable Tuner Aerial Input- 75 ohm coaxial (IEC75) , Video Playback- NTSC, SECAM, PAL , DVB- DVB-T MPEG4*, DVB-C MPEG4* Tuner bands-Hyperband, S-Channel, UHF, VHF Dimensions: W126 x H77 x D12cm (without stand) , W126 x H82 x D31cm (with stand) Weight: 28kg (without stand), 32kg (with stand) Connections: 4 x HDMI , PC connectivity, USB, EasyLink (HDMI-CEC)- One touch play, Remote control pass-through, System audio control, System standby HD Natural Motion: Philips invented HD Natural Motion to eliminate juddering effects that are visible with movie-based picture content 2 x 10 W with Incredible Surround: An invisible sound system that blends perfectly with the design of the cabinet Picture enhancement: Pixel precise HD, 3/2 - 2/2 motion pull down, 3D Combfilter, Active Control + Light sensor, Digital Noise Reduction, Dynamic contrast enhancement, Luminance Transient Improver, Progressive Scan, 2D/3D noise reduction, 100 Hz LCD, HD Natural Motion Playback Formats: MP3, LPCM, JPEG Still pictures, MPEG1, MPEG2, H.264/MPEG-4 AVC Video formats: 480i, 60 Hz, 480p, 60 Hz, 576i, 50 Hz, 576p, 50 Hz, 720p, 50, 60 Hz, 1080i, 50, 60 Hz, 1080p, 24, 25, 30, 50, 60 Hz Computer formats: 640 x 480, 60 Hz, 800 x 600, 60 Hz, 1024 x 768, 60 Hz, 1280 x 1024, 60 Hz, 1360 x 768, 60 Hz, 1600 x 1200, 60 Hz, 1920 x 1080, 60 Hz Sound: 2 x 10 W (Incredible Surround, Treble and Bass Control, Nicam Stereo ) Power: 220 - 240 V, 50 Hz This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more 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, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Limited Collection Grosgrain Chain Bag, at MarksandSpencer
Fashionable and fabulous, this grosgrain chain handbag is designed in one of this season's key shapes. It's a practical as well as trend-conscious accessory. Get the latest look!

Younger Boys' Holiday Shark Aqua Sock Shoes, at Marks and Spenser
Round toe Shark print Flat grip sole Slip on

Big & Tall Flat Front Trousers, at Marks and Spencer
No more trips to the drycleaners! These smart, fashionable trousers are machine washable. Perfectly proportioned for big and tall men

Aluminium Deep Roasting Tray, at Marks & Spencers
Non-stick Teflon coated Dimensions: L31 x W20.5 x D3cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Classic Collection Short Sleeve Nightdress, at Marks & Spencers
Fresh and feminine, this nightdress is made from a soft cotton blend so it feels comfortable to sleep in. The bow detail adds a pretty touch

Perfect 2 Autograph Plain Trunks, at Marks and Spencers
Made from soft, stretchy microfibre, these fit like a second skin and have supersoft seams to reduce irritation. Perfect comfort, all day every day

Sonoma Light 5 Drawer Chest & 2 Bedside Chests Set, at Marks and Spencer
3 piece set 5 drawer chest: H88 x W90 x D50cm Bedside chests: H60 x W45 x D45cm Made from solid oak and oak veneer This range features natural wood characteristics Finished with 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of low sheen Drawer boxes and fronts made from solid Oak. Drawer bottoms made from White Oak veneer Handles made from solid white oak and veneer Side and back made from soli Top panel is veneered with solid Oak edging for strength All joints are glued and pressed together in the factory, giving more inherent strength than flat pack fittings Free eco-friendly delivery to your home. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item Why use veneers? Unlike solid timber, veneer does not twist/warp/split to the same degree. Only the finest logs are used in veneer production. It is environmentally sound and traditional - much of the finest cabinetry in the world is veneered. Care & Cleaning - Wipe with a soft clean cloth and use a mild furniture cleaner or polish occasionally. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sounds Of The Wild Dinosaurs, at Marks & Spencers
Fun and stimulting, this reference book with pop ups and sound will keep them entertained

Wool Blend Double Breasted Coat, at Marks and Spencer
Fashionable and practical, this coat is fully lined and features a detachable hood. A comfortable, easycare style

Limited Collection Pure Silk Beaded Blouse, at Marks & Spencer
Part of Limited Collection's London Crowd trend. A quintessentially English look featuring quirky prints in monochrome with bright pops of colour. Kitsch styling and playful designs give this trend a fun London feel

Samsung J700 - Orange Pay as you Go Mobile Phone, at Marks&Spencer
Talk Time: Up to 3 hours Stand-by: Up to 250 hours Screen: 128 x 160 pixel resolution, 65,536 LCD colours, 2 inch Ringtones: 64 Polyphonic and MP3 ringtones Camera: 1.3 megapixel Dimensions: H9.9 x W4.8 x D1.4cm Weight: 92g Messaging: SMS and MMS - Combine image, video, text and voice clips and send an MMS to a compatible phone or PC Orange Pay as you Go: Your mobile service provider will be Orange. An Orange SIM card is included with this handset. Memory: Up to 10MB internal memory, MicroSD card slot Video player: Watch MP4 videos Music player: Music player with dedicated play/pause button. Plays multiple audio formats including MP3, AAC, AAC+, e-AAC+ and WMA Radio: Listen to FM radio 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

Herringbone Printed Bedset, at Marks & Spencers
Herringbone print Single set includes single duvet cover (3ft) and 1 pillowcase Double set includes double duvet cover (4ft 6in)and 2 pillowcases King size includes king size duvet cover (5ft) and 2 pillowcases, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Hepworth 7-Drawer Tall Chest, at Marks and Spencer
H111 x W50 x D54cm With 7 drawers Made from European Birch solids and veneers Treated with a rich stain and aged with dark patina known as a 'housemaid's rub' Finished with 2 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Side and back panels are veneered Top panel is veneered with solid birch edging for strength Drawer boxes made from solid European Birch. Drawers made from veneers Solid European Birch legs All joints are glued and pressed together in the factory, giving more inherent strength than flat pack fittings Free eco-friendly delivery to your home. Our crews will unpack, assemble and position the item Why use veneers? Unlike solid timber, veneer does not twist/warp/split to the same degree. Only the finest logs are used in veneer production. It is environmentally sound and traditional - much of the finest cabinetry in the world is veneered. Care & Cleaning - Wipe with a soft clean cloth and use a mild furniture cleaner or polish occasionally. Be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Pure Cotton Stripe Design Shirt, at Mark's & Spencer
Stylish and contemporary, this pure cotton stripe design shirt is part of our luxurious Autograph collection. The fabric has been created exclusively for us to tie in with this seasons key looks, so you wont find it anywhere else

Pure Cotton Block Stripe Hooded Top, at Marks and Spencer
Relaxed and casual, this comfortable hoodie is made from pure cotton and features a block stripe design. A great value easycare style

Montsant Old Vines Garnacha 2005 - Case of 6, at Marks & Spensers
Style: Full bodied Grape variety: Garnacha Country of origin: Spain Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 14% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.5 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.8 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

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 Money financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks & Spenser 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, Buildings Insurance policies. Usually, UK Buildings 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 Money Buildings 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 Money Buildings Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.