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 Mark's & 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 Spencer, 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 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 Car 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; Car Insurance and Buildings 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 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 Money Insurance does not have these insurance limits, excepting liability and cash cover, and therefore you can not be under-insured.

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Money. Not least of these is Mark & Spensers Standard Car Insurance. With M&S Money you can keep the cost of your Car 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 Car Insurance cover from M&S Money, which also has other features.

Nonetheless, many features are standard to both the Premier and the Standard Car Insurance policies on offer from Marks and Spencer, 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 Car Insurance from Marks & Spencer Money, you get more, and you pay less.

ARCHOS 5 DVR Station for Internet Media Tablets, at Marks&Spencer
TV Recording: Easily record your favorite programs with the included TV program guide.Select your program on the program grid and schedule the recording with a click of the remote control. Record from most any external analog video source such as your satellite receiver, Digital TV adapter (DVB-T), VCR or cable box HD content playback: Play back HD videos up to 720p from your ARCHOS to your TV Full internet experience: Browse the Web comfortably and write your emails using the included remote control Faster charging: Charge your Internet Media Tablet quickly Media club: Discover a large library of movies, documentaries, music albums and games. Buy or rent your content in a few clicks and get instant access to it on your TV Stream from PC: Stream any of the music, movies or photos from your PC to your TV using your WiFi home network Multi-channel sound: Enjoy your films with 5.1 Surround Sound on your home cinema system through the SPDIF output Suitable for the ARCHOS 5 Internet Media Tablet 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

Autograph Apron Derby Lace-Up Shoes, at MarksandSpencer
Square toe Lace-up Apron design 3 eyelets Block heel

Stain Defence™ Non-Iron Centre Crease Trousers, at Marks&Spencer
These trousers are treated with Stain Defence™ and Stormwear™ technologies, so they repel water and stains. They're non-iron for convenience - for best results, machine wash, tumble dry and hang straight away

Autograph Roll Up Sleeve Shirt, at Marks and Spencer
Smart and contemporary, this pure cotton shirt can be worn long sleeved, or with the sleeves rolled up and fastened in place. Epaulette detailing brings the look up to date. Ideal for sixth form wear

2 Older Boys' Pure Cotton Assorted Baseball Caps, at Mark's & Spencer
Casual and fashionable, these baseball caps feature a stunning floral print design

Oudinot Rosé Brut Champagne NV - Case of 6, at Marks & Spenser
Style: Dry Grape variety: Pinot Noir & Pinot Meunier Country of origin: France Closure: Natural cork Bottle: 6 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 12% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 9 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.5 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Per Una Flap Zip Bag, at Marks and Spenser
A stylish bag featuring front zip details. Fantastic with this season's styles

Pure One Mini DAB Radio, at Marks & Spencer
Frequency ranges: DAB Band III 174-240 MHz, FM 87.5-108 MHz Speaker: Full-range 3" drive unit Audio power output: 1.6W RMS Input connectors: 5.5V DC power adapter socket (230V adapter supplied), Mini USB connector for software upgrades, 3.5mm Line in for auxiliary devices Output connectors: 3.5mm headphone socket Controls: Standby, DAB/FM, Info, Autotune, Presets, Stations and select/volume dial LCD Display: Custom, easy to read LCD with 16 x 2 character display plus status icons Mains power supply: 230V AC to 5.5V (1.0A) DC external power adapter Battery power supply: ChargePAK B1 (not supplied). At normal listening levels ChargePAK B1 provides up to 20 hours of portable DAB listening Connection: Connect an iPod/MP3 player or portable CD Aerial: Integral telescopic aerial Text scan: Pause and control scrolling text, giving you time to note down web addresses, competition phone numbers or song titles USB: Add new features as they become available via USB R.D.S: RDS support for station name display on FM and RDS scrolling text Charge pak ready: For maximum convenience add the optional "Fit and Forget" ChargePAK, for around 20 hours of portable DAB listening 16 presets: 16 presets (8 DAB, 8 FM) Dimensions: H13.5 x W13 x D6cm (excluding controls) 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

Multi-Stripe Ceramic Vase, at Marks and Spencers
Fluted spout Multi-stripe design Broad base, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

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

Blue Harbour Luxury Pure Cotton Wide Stripe Polo Shirt, at Marks & Spencers
Stylishly smart casual, this polo shirt is made from pure cotton so it's soft, breathable and comfortable to wear

Wavy Profile Pine Mirror, at Mark's & Spencer
Rectangular shape Wooden frame Beveled edging Dimensions: H89 x W76cm This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Firm Control Sheer High Leg Briefs, at Mark's & Spencer
Look slimmer in seconds! These firm control knickers gently flatten tummies for a sleeker, slimmer silhouette

Playmobil Signal Trailer Toy, at Mark & Spencers
Suitable for ages 4+ Includes 3 different light versions 2 AAA batteries required This product conforms to the 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 This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more , Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Autograph New York Eau de Toilette 100ml, at Mark's & Spencer
100ml This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Pencil Stripe Mug, at Marks & Spencer
Pencil stripe design Height: 9 cm, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Per Una Short Sleeve Antique Lace Jersey Top, at Marks and Spencer
An elegant short sleeve top featuring antique print and lace detail

Pure Silk Check Tie, at Marks & Spenser
Add a luxurious finishing touch with this smart check tie in pure silk

Panasonic HDC-TM300 Camcorder, at Marks & Spencer
Pixels: 9.15 megapixels Zoom: 12x optical zoom / 700x digital zoom Screen: 2.7 Wide LCD ( 230,400 pixels) Dimensions: H7.2 x W7 x D14.1cm Weight: 385g (without batteries and card) Media: Built-in memory (32GB), SD/SDHC Memory Card Recording format: MPEG4-AVC/H.264 (AVCHD standard compliant) Audio recording system: Dolby Digital (5.1ch) Microphone: 5.1ch surround, zoom and focus microphone Power supply: DC7.2V / 9.3V

Cotton Rich Hooded Cardigan, at Marks and Spencer
A practical choice for school, this hooded cardigan is made from soft cotton rich fabric with stretch. It's easycare for convenience

Woodland Interactive Snail, at Marks and Spencer
Contains a small oval plastic mirror under the flap on the shell A pocket on the reverse of the shell which contains 3 coloured, embroidered leaves which can be removed from the pocket Two softened plastic teethers attached to the tail of the snail by a satin ribbon loop Includes a blue and green butterfly attached via a cord to the top of the shell. When pulled, the cord will extend to a maximum length of 115mm before being automatically retracted into a mechanism in the top of the shell. This mechanism vibrates Double lined for safety Suitable from birth Approximate overall dimensions W325 H230 D120mm This product conforms to EN71 toy safety regulation, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Tennis Set, at Mark's & Spencer
2 rackets 2 balls Zip fastening case with shoulder strap and mesh ball holder Racket: 690 x 280mm Tennis ball: 210mm Bag: 490 x 280mm 762g This product conforms to EN71 and the Toy Safety Directive, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Philips Power2Charge Universal USB Charger, at Marks and Spencer
This power solution provides an easy way to avoid ever running out of power with any of your portable devices on the go. When fully charged, this power solution is able to provide up to 15 hours of power without the need of a power outlet Due to the interchangeable connector tips that are included, this device is fully compatible with most portable devices from a very wide range of brands. Simply choose the connector tip to match your portable device With a world plug, you can be sure you can use this device almost anywhere you go on your business trip or holiday The plug is designed in such a way that it can be folded when not in use to increase portability when on the go Via the illuminated Philips logo, you are informed about the charging status of your device. When the Philips logo starts flashing you know your device is fully charged, so you can unplug it from the power outlet and prevent unnecessary energy consumption When you press the test button, the LED battery capacity indicator shows you how much power is remaining and when it's time to recharge The travel bag supplied with this device is both convenient and useful as it provides extra protection To protect the USB outlet from damage, dirt and dust, a rubber cover can be pushed into place on the USB outlet when the device is not being used Power input voltage: 100-240 V Power output voltage: 5.6 V Battery capacity: 1000 mAh Battery type: Li-Polymer Heavy metals: Cd free, Hg free, Pb free Dimensions: H8.1 x W5.8 x D2.7cm Weight: 0.116 kg

North Coast Pure Cotton Cargo Shorts, at Marks and Spencer
Relaxed and casual, these fashionable shorts are made from comfortable cotton and feature characteristic cargo style pockets

Portfolio Sleeveless Spot Print Dress with Bolero, at Marks & Spensers
Feminine and pretty, this sleeveless dress features a spot print and 3/4 sleeve bolero. A fabulous fashionable look

Wentworth Large 2-Seater Occasional Sofa Bed, at Marks and Spencers
H96 x W172 x D100cm Seat H50cm (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 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 Feet are castors Mattress: L180 x W112 x D6cm Foam mattress rests on polypropylene base Mattress recommended for occasional use Sofa Bed will support a maximum combined weight of 160kg 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 than fabric upholstery due to the nature of the material, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Padded Drawstring Waist Hooded Gilet, at Marks & Spencers
Warm and cosy, this padded gilet features faux fur trim hood and a drawstring waist. A modern casual look

Suede Sprung-Edge Divan with 2 Small + 2 Large Drawers & M400 Mattress - Firm, at Marks and Spencers
Double mattress (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King size mattress (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super king size mattress (6ft): W180 x L200cm 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 Mattress spring count: 1054 Sprung-edge divan can be used with any mattress 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

Hoppy Birthday Frog Age 3 Birthday Card, at Mark & Spencers
Cover text: Hoppy birthday! Inside message: Have a great day This card is made with material from FSC certified sustainable forests. Protecting the world's forests for the future Approx size: 150 x 150mm

Per Una Small Square Hooded Jacket, at Marks and Spencer
A warm hooded jacket in soft fabric featuring water repellent finish

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

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

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