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 and Spencers, 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 Marks & Spencers 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, Sainsbury's, or Tescos:

• 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.

Shopping for financial products at M&S Financial Services UK website is just as simple as shopping for fashion or furniture at the Marks and Spencers online store. Here are just some of the financial products which can be purchased via the M&S Financial Services website:

• M&S Insurance: M&S Motor Insurance, M&S Buildings & Contents Insurance, M&S Life Insurance, M&S Wedding Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance
• M&S Credit Cards: M&S Credit Card, M&S Premium Club Card
• M&S Loans: M&S Car Buying Plan, M&S Personal Loans
• M&S Money: M&S Travel Money for your trips abroad
• M&S Savings: M&S Everyday Savings Account, M&S Fixed Rate Savings, M&S Stocks & Shares ISA, M&S Cash ISA, M&S Unit Trust

Of course, many of these types of product can be purchased elsewhere too; however, once you begin to take a closer look at the products from Marks and Spencer, it's easy to see that these are good financial products, at value-for-money prices.

And, just as importantly, contacting M&S Financial Services in the event of a query, or an insurance claim, is as easy as picking up the phone, or visiting the M&S Financial Services website.

Autograph Light Control Guipure Mesh Briefs, at Marks and Spencers
Look slimmer in seconds! These light control knickers gently flatten tummies for a sleeker, slimmer silhouette

Contrast Trim Round Handle Umbrella, at Marks & Spencer
Brighten up rainy days with this stylish lightweight umbrella

Recycled 10.5 Tog Anti-Allergy Duvet, at Marks and Spenser
Endorsed by the British Allergy Foundation Proven protection wash after wash 10.5 tog Comes in single, double, king, and super king sizes, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Sonoma 2 Door Sideboard and Glass Top Unit Set, at Marks and Spencers
2 door glazed top unit: H110 x W122.5 x D33cm 2 drawer sideboard :H88 x W122 x D50cm 2 door sideboard with 6 shelves Shelves made from safety-tested toughened glass 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 wood Side and back made from White Oak veneer 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 manufacturers instructions, and be aware that polishes can add sheen. This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Towelling Mules, at Marks and Spencer
Round toe Backless Comes in sizes 3-8

Multiway Satin Embroidered Trim Padded Bra, at Mark & Spencers
This versatile bra can be worn 5 ways: conventionally, halterneck, cross back, strapless and one shoulder. Designed for a flattering fit, secure support and comfort

Chrome Collection Towel Holder, at M&S
Polished finish H11.5 x W19.5 x D6cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Gothic 5 Arm Chandelier, at Marks & Spencer
Candle effect shades 5 arm Hand finished H50 x D54cm Bulbs: 5 x 60W SES This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Aviator Sport Sunglasses, at Marks n Spencer
With full UV protection and a flattering modern design, these smart sunglasses will see you through the summer in style

Knee Length Stripe Skater Skirt, at Marks & Spenser
Fashionable and contemporary, this stripe print skirt will take you from office to evening in style. A smart modern choice

Olive Tree, at Marks n Spencer
A small olive tree, great for patio or doorstep. Ready for re-planting into a terracotta or ceramic potAvailable for delivery from 1st April to 30th September 2009

Blue Harbour Cargo Board Shorts, at Mark's & Spencer
Practical and fashionable, these board shorts give a comfortable, flattering and secure fit

Neutrals Giraffe Nursery Blocks, at Mark's & Spencer
An exciting introduction to the world of playtime, this activity toy will have them entertained for hours of fun

Icon Letters Mum Birthday Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover text: Mum Inside message: With love and kisses This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future Approx size: 150 x 150mm

Pure Cotton Sleeveless Embroidered Dress, at Marks & Spencer
Pretty and feminine, this sleeveless dress features an embroidered neckline and frilled hem. A flattering, stylish look

Rose & Freesia, at Marks and Spencers
Internet ExclusiveThis sunny yellow and white bouquet echoes all the beauty and colour of spring with a fabulous selection of roses and freesias complimented by a scattering of ruscus Available for delivery from 1st April to 30th September 2009

USA & Australia Travel Adaptor, at Marks and Spencer
UK socket to 2 flat pin plug adaptor

6 Button Pleated Skirt, at M & S
An ideal choice for school, this easycare skirt gets top marks for its stretch fabric, drop waist, button detailing and smart pleats

Grow Your Own Fruit by Carol Klein & The Royal Horticultural Society, at Mark's & Spencer
In this book TV presenter and highly-regarded gardener Carol Klein creates a lavishly illustrated, practical and inspiring beginner's handbook to everything anyone ever needs to know to grow fruits all year round

Shape Sorter Ladybug, at Marks & Spencer
Pull-along cord Spot design Multicolour blocks Suitable for ages 0-3yrs This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive 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

Multiway Underwired Lace Bra, at Marks and Spenser
Whether you wear it strapless, cross-over or conventional, this smart bra offers the best in versatile comfort thanks to a multiway design and non-padded. An essential addition to any wardrobe

Cotton Rich Coolmax® Pillowcase, at Mark's & Spencer
Plain Easycare Perfect for use with our range of cool cotton duvets and protectors 220 thread count for a smooth crisp finish that requires minimal ironing, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Limited Collection High Heel Shoes, at Mark's & Spencer
Round toe Buckle fastening High heel Patent finish Comes in sizes 3-8, including half sizes

Turned Wood Floor Lamp, at Marks & Spenser
Fabric shade Turned wood stem Round base Dimensions: H176.4 x Diam 41cm Bulb: BC GLS Max 60W, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

DeLonghi Pump Espresso & Cappuccino Machine, at Marks n Spencer
High performance 15 bar pump pressure - ensures best tasting espresso and cappuccino with no limit to the number of cups produced Traditional cappuccino milk frother Professional filter holder and tamper for perfect crema Removable 1 litre water tank Built to accommodate either a full size cappuccino cup or 2 espresso cups Stainless Steel removable drip tray Filter storage compartment, permanent filter included Separate coffee and steam boiler thermostats for faster use and optimum temperature control Adjustable steam emission Easy to use - 3 button operation Measuring spoon Pumped coffee machines have a removable water reservoir that can be removed at any time allowing easy filling. The high performance pumped pressure ensures the best tasting espresso / cappuccino with no limit the number of cups produced 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 , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Handcrafted Religious Laser Cut Cross Easter Card, at Marks & Spenser
Cover text: An Easter prayer for peace and hope, especially for you - may all the joy that springtime brings, last for the whole year through Inside message: blank for your own message Approx size: 230 x 114mm

Cotton Rich Deep Lace Shorts, at Mark & Spensers
These pretty deep lace shorts are shapely and modern. Added stretch gives a comfortable, figure-flattering fit

DeLonghi Espresso Icona ECO310BK Coffee Maker, at Marks & Spencer
High performance 15 bar pump pressure Stylish onyx black high gloss finish Traditional stainless steel cappuccino milk frother Professional 2 in 1 filter holder suitable for ground coffee or ESE pods Includes free illy pods Built in tamper and incorporated crema device for perfect crema Removable 1 litre water tank Built to accommodate either 2 full sized cappuccino cups or 2 espresso cups Stainless steel removable drip tray Separate coffee and steam boiler for faster use and optimum temperature control Adjustable steam emission Cup warmer Easy to use - 3 button operation Measuring spoon Dimensions: H38 x W29 x D34cm Boxed-product Weight: 6 Kg, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

3 Cool & Fresh Pure Cotton Assorted Boxers, at Marks & Spencer
Made from soft breathable cotton, these comfy boxers are ideal for everyday wear

Ribbon Bootie Slippers, at Marks & Spencer
Treat your feet to the warm comfort of these faux fur trim slippers. They're a terrific option for lounging around the home in cosy style

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.