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 MarksandSpencer 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 Marks & Spencer 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 Property Insurance, M&S Travel Insurance, M&S Pet Insurance, savings products, M&S Credit Cards, M&S Loans, and much more besides.

Shopping for financial products at Marks & Spencer Money UK website is just as simple as shopping for fashion or furniture at the Marks&Spencer online store. Here are just some of the financial products which can be purchased via the Marks & Spencer Money website:

• M&S Insurance: M&S Car Insurance, M&S Property 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 & Spencer, it's easy to see that these are good financial products, at value-for-money prices.

And, just as importantly, contacting Marks & Spencer Money in the event of a query, or an insurance claim, is as easy as picking up the phone, or visiting the Marks & Spencer Money website.

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 M&S are so useful. Marks & Spencer Money financial products are, of course, designed to make Marks and 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, 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 Marks & Spencer Money 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 Marks & Spencer Money Property Insurance than you will anywhere else, and you may even pay less with M&S.

3 Piece Box Mirror Set, at Marks and Spencer
3 Piece set Rectangular H58 x W28cm This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph Best Pure Silk Spray Tie, at Marks and Spenser
Fashionable and contemporary, this pure silk tie is part of our exclusive Autograph collection. Designer style and luxury at high street prices

Portfolio Gathered Front V-Neck Cardigan, at Marks & Spencers
Part of Portfolio's Mimosa trend. A beautifully elegant look featuring chic, muted tones such as cocoa, mink, saffron and purple. Striking prints are key to this feminine trend

James Morrison - Songs For You, Truths For Me CD, at Marks and Spencer
Audio CD, Marks & Spencer

8GB Apple iPod nano - Latest Generation, at Marks and Spenser
Holds up to 2,000 songs, 8 hours of video, 7,000 photos, or some of each Genius feature finds the songs in your library that go great together and makes a Genius playlist for you Shake iPod nano to shuffle your music Cover Flow - turn it on its side to flip through album art Watch movies, TV shows, and video Curved, anodized aluminum and curved glass design 2-inch (diagonal) color LCD display with LED backlight. 320 by 240 pixels at 204 ppi Tilt, move, and play accelerometer-inspired games (games available separately) Dimensions: H9 x W3.9 x D0.6cm Weight: 36.8g Built-in rechargeable lithium ion battery capable of up to 24 hours of audio playback and up to 4 hours of video playback Spoken menus allow listeners to hear many of the names of menus, song titles, and artists without viewing the screen A high-resolution LCD display with adjustable contrast and backlight settings makes it easier to read in low light For Mac and Windows. Requires Windows Vista or Windows XP Home or Professional or Mac OS X v10.4.11 or later In the box: iPod Nano, Earphones, USB cable, dock adapter TM and 2008 Apple Inc. All rights reserved 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

Dinner Candle Holder, at Marks & Spenser
Fluted opening Two tone glass design Long stem Wide base Hand decorated H33 x Diam: 8.8cm Weight: 0.45kg, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

12-Piece Lyon Dinner Set, at Marks & Spenser
12-piece set Includes 4 dinner plates, 4 side plates and 4 cereal bowls Dinner plate: Diam 28cm Side plate: Diam 21cm Cereal bowl: H8 x Diam 14cm Rib detail, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Limited Collection Faux Snakeskin Tote Bag, at Marks and Spencers
Fashionable and fabulous, this faux snakeskin print handbag is designed in one of this season's key shapes. It's a practical as well as a trend-conscious accessory. Get the latest look!

LED Light Collection Dragonfly Mobile, at Marks n Spencer
Hanging loop Circular design 3 hanging dragonflies, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Wave Bedset, at Marks and Spencer
Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Knitted V-Neck Poncho, at Marks & Spenser
Wrap up warm in fashionable style with this v-neck poncho. It looks great over this season's fashions, or wear with jeans and boots

Autograph Pure Wool Flat Front Broken Stripe Trousers, at Marks and Spencers
Fashionable and contemporary, these flat frot trousers are part of our exclusive Autograph collection. A great design, superior fabric and careful attention to detail make them exceptionally stylish and comfortable

Circle Buckle Shoulder Bag, at Marks and Spencers
Combining smart practicality with elegant style results in a circle buckle shoulder bag that's simply flawless in design

Cat Print Umbrella, at Marks and Spenser
Brighten up rainy days with this stylish lightweight umbrella

Stormwear™ Flat Front Straight Leg Trousers with Wool, at Marks and Spencer
Innovative and stylish, these flat front are made with Stormwear™ technology. The unique water and stain repellent finish keeps you feeling dry and comfortable

Suede Sprung-Edge Non-Storage Divan & Autograph M500 Mattress - Firm, at Marks and Spencer
Single Mattress (3ft): W90 x L190cm Double Mattress (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm 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 L90cm King Size Divan (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super King Size Divan (6ft): W180 x L200cm Mattress depth: 27.5cm Divan height: 41cm Mattress is entirely handmade Individually pocketed springs Mattress features deep pillowtop layer containing high quality fillings of cashmere, silk and super-soft reflex foam Two further layers of cotton and polyester underneath the pillowtop layer Double row of hand side-stitching to add support to the edges of the mattress Mattress Spring Count: 1225 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

Twin Pleat Trousers with Wool, at Mark & Spencers
No more trips to the drycleaners! These smart, fashionable trousers can be machine washed and tumble dried

Domaine Guinand St Christol Côteaux du Languedoc 2005 - Case of 6, at Marks n Spencer
Style: Full Bodied Grape variety: Syrah, Carignan Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Suitable for vegetarians and vegans Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9.8 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

Autograph Multi Pocket Jacket, at Marks and Spencers
This sharply styled casual jacket gives a fashionable urban look. Superior fabric, a contemporary design and exceptional attention to detail make it a must have for this season

Dyson DC23 Animal Vacuum Cleaner, at Marks and Spencer
Suction power: 280 airwatts (constant) Bin capacity: 2 litres Root Cyclone™ technology: Dyson vacuum cleaners separate dirt from the air by centrifugal force. It spins the air incredibly fast and the dust and dirt is flung out into the clear bin™. Suction is maintained as there is no bag to become clogged No bags or filters: No extra costs and your vacuum doesn't lose power as you clean Hygienic and quick to empty: Dyson design minimises risk of contact with dirt Cord length: 6.5 metres Combination accessory tool: Debris nozzle converts to a brush tool for dusting Included in the box: Crevice tool, mini turbine head, stair tool, turbine head, operations manual, quick start guide Dimensions: 352 x 460 x 289 mm Weight: 8.75 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 This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Pure Cotton Textured Bathmats, at Marks & Spensers
Textured edging Latex gripped backing Large bathmat: L80 x W50cm Pedestal mat: L55 x W50cm Sizes sold separately. Customers should select which mat size they wish to purchase from the drop down menu, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Golf Lite Umbrella, at Marks and Spencer
Smart and easy to carry, the practical design of this handy umbrella is the perfect solution for dealing with sudden downpours

Montreal Armchair, at M & S
H94 x W115 x D104cm Seat H44cm, arm 63cm, top back rail 70cm (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 seat 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 medium 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

Pure Cotton Long Sleeve Pleated Shirt, at Marks and Spencers
Feminine and elegant, this sophisticated shirt is beautifully designed and cut for a flattering shape and features a contemporary pleat detail

Girls' Limited Hat, Scarf & Mitten Set, at Marks and Spenser
Snug and cosy, this colourful hat, scarf and mitten set is a fashionable choice for chilly weather

My First Joke Book, at Marks and Spencer
With over 500 jokes, this book is never-ending fun!

2 Per Una Essentials Clover Embroidered High Leg Knickers, at Marks and Spencer
Fresh and feminine, this pack of 2 stylish kickers feature a delicate front panel in soft stretch lace. The high leg style gives a flattering long-legged look. Pretty everyday fashion

Tiga Glazed Unit, at Marks and Spencer
H191 x W95 x D42cm 3 fixed wooden shelves 2 toughened-glass doors Made from sheesam wood Finished with a protective matt lacquer for added durability 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 Occasions Pure Silk Pleated Wedding Dress, at Marks & Spencers
Beautifully designed and luxurious, this elegant, empire line wedding dress features a pleated bodice and pretty crochet detailing. An exclusive, luxurious look from Autograph for your wedding day

Silver Plated Ball Cluster Drop Earrings, at Marks and Spencer
Diamant cluster Drop style Hook fastening For hygiene reasons, refunds will only be given in accordance with your legal rights

Marks and Spencer may not necessarily be the first name that springs to mind when you're thinking about renewing your Property Insurance or Car Insurance, but Marks and Spencer 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 Marks & Spencer 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 Marks & Spencer Money loans, credit cards or Property Insurance - besides a number of other insurance products, Marks & Spencer Money can save you both time and money, with comprehensive information available at a click.

Free insurance quotes are available online for all of Marks & Spencer Money insurance products (Property 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 M & S insurance products in document format too.