Founded in 1983 by Dr Manfred Dirrheimer FWU stands before you. This isn’t just any office building. It’s the Munich headquarters of an international financial services powerhouse. FWU or Forward You as it’s known to its customers is a family-run business. The Dirrheimer family still holds the majority stake. Swiss Re Europe SA owns a minority share.
FWU’s story is one of remarkable growth. From humble beginnings in Germany it expanded internationally. France joined in 1997. Italy followed in 2006. Spain in 2014 and Belgium in 2017. The company now operates in ten locations worldwide employing around 450 people. A significant portion of them are IT specialists. This reflects FWU’s commitment to technological innovation.
Imagine the hustle and bustle of a typical workday here at FWU. Phone calls in multiple languages ring out. Screens glow with data and charts. The atmosphere is one of calculated risk and bold innovation. It’s a place where the future of finance is being shaped.
FWU’s success isn’t accidental. It started with a unique product strategy. They offer unit-linked policies. These are offered through their own insurance companies FWU Life Insurance Lux SA and FWU Life Insurance Austria AG. The award-winning Pan-European Forward Quant product has been especially successful. Since 2018 50000 customers have chosen this policy.
This innovative approach didn’t stop at products. In 2005 FWU created FILOS. This digital consulting instrument revolutionised sales. By 2022 ninety-two percent of European contracts were signed electronically. Many without even a physical meeting. FWU’s technological prowess also helped them navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
FWU has achieved remarkable growth. In Europe alone they serve 275000 customers. Assets under management exceed €2 billion. Total contributions reach €9 billion. Globally FWU’s insurance companies serve one million customers. They’ve also won many awards. For example the Best Takaful Provider award from Euromoney Islamic Finance Awards in 2007. They’ve also received the Best Portfolio of Unit-Linked Products Europe award from CFI.co in 2018.
Looking at the FWU building today you’re witnessing more than just an office. You’re seeing the embodiment of a successful international business. A business driven by innovation a family legacy and a commitment to its customers. This is FWU Forward You the future of finance.