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

When you're shopping at Marks and Spencers online store for your summer outfit, or looking for furniture to give your home a makeover, then spend a moment to also consider products from M&S Financial Services. Offering everything from savings accounts and credit cards, to Property Insurance and Motor Insurance, there's a lot more going on at Marks & Spensers than you might imagine.

In particular, if you're thinking of travelling soon, then consider Travel Insurance from M&S Financial Services. With images of volcano ash still fresh in many traveller's minds, it's good to remember there were many travellers who ended up wishing they had spent just a few pounds extra to obtain travel insurance for their trip. Of course, unfortunately, after the event is too late!

In fact, had you purchased travel insurance from M&S Financial Services, you would have been in good hands; within just a short time of the volcanic ash disruptions, visitors to the M&S Financial Services website would have seen a message stating that although claims relating to volcanic eruptions are not normally covered by travel insurance, that on this particular occasion, they would "allow claims from UK customers affected by the volcanic ash that has recently grounded flights."

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 Property 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 Property 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.

Samsung HT-TX500 Home Theatre System, at Marks and Spencer
Sound: 1000W RMS 5.1 channel sound Audio: Dolby Digital, Dolby ProLogic-II, DTS Inbuilt DivX: Plays MPEG 4, AVI and other media files Radio: FM tuner, RDS USB Host: Plug a portable digital device into the USB port for instAnt entertainment Full 1080p Upscaling: Creates full HD images from standard DVDs Anynet+: The Anynet+ system allows control of a SAMSUNG Anynet+ TV via one single remote control. Simple Connectivity: Wireless-ready, USB HOST Dimensions: set W18.8 X H121.5 X D11.2cm, subwoofer W27.0 x H46.6 x D41.0, speaker (front) W10.6 x H131.0 x D85, speaker (rear) W10.6 x H131.0 x D85, speaker (centre) W42.7 x H10.6 x D87.5 Weight: 52kg 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

Younger Girls' Heart Trekking Sandals, at Marks and Spencer
Contrast stitch detail Riptape fastening Heart print

Per Una Tab Front Knee Length Dress, at Marks & Spensers
A fabulous knee length dress featuring tie cuff details

Art Deco Photo Frame 7.5 x 7.5cm (3 x 3"), at Mark's & Spencer
Square shape Art deco style Aperture: 7.5 x 7.5cm (3 x 3"), Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Luxury Mattress - Firm, at Mark's & Spencer
Single (3ft): W90 x L190cm Double (4ft 6in): W135 x L190cm King Size (5ft): W150 x L200cm Super King Size (6ft): W180 x L200cm Spring count: 2200 Independently pocketed springs in two layers Lambs wool, cotton and loose hair filling Cotton-felt provides a soft-surface with wool holds fillings in place Hand-stitched sides support mattress wall and extend sleeping area Anti-allergy protected for the life of the mattress Does not require turning 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

Firm Control Magic Low Leg Lace Panel Full Briefs, at Marks&Spencer
As if by magic, these knickers control and shape you where you need it most, flattening tummies and lifting bottoms. They're comfortable, breathable and easy to move in and a special finish keeps you cool and dry

2 Pairs of Sheer 15 Denier Matt Knee Highs, at Marks & Spensers
A great value essential, these 15 denier sheer matt knee-highs will give a sleek. Perfect with trousers or long skirts

Schoolwear Plus Fit Recycled Stormwear™ & Stain Defence™ Blazer, at Marks and Spencer
This larger sized blazer is treated with our unique Stormwear™ finish which repels water and Stain Defence™ to repel stains. It's made from polyester from recycled plastic waste instead of oil. Using recycled materials helps to conserve the earth's natural resources and protect the environment for future generations View Plus Schoolwear Size Guide. Find out more

Pure Cotton Quick Iron Button Down Stripe Shirt, at Marks & Spencers
Stylish and innovative, this pure cotton easycare shirt is quick and easy to iron for a smart crisp look

Plum Graphic Flowers Multipack of Mini Cards, at Marks & Spencers
Cover text: Design 1: thank you, Design 2: with love, Design 3: just to say, Design 4: hello Inside message: All designs: blank for your own message Approx size: Unfolded: 95 x 80mm Pack contains: 8 cards, 4 designs

3 Pastry Cutters, at M & S
3 sizes Arched handle, Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Holiday Puzzle Book, at Marks & Spencers
Whether you are relaxing on the beach, or travelling to your tropical getaway, this brand new collection of puzzles will put your solving skills to the test. Inside you will find crosswords, wordsearches, sudoku, word and number puzzles, plus many other both new and familiar puzzles to challenge and entertain you

Leather Reversible Belt, at Marks & Spencers
Define your waistline with this fashionable reversible leather belt

Wide Stripe Padded Bra, at Marks & Spencers
Feminine and pretty, this wide stripe bra is ideal for everyday wear. Underwiring and padding give an uplifted and enhanced natural shape

Belgian Chocs 310g, at M & S
An indulgent treat, this box of delicious Belgian chocolates is a perfect gift for friends and loved ones

Philips 42'' FL7404 Full HD LCD TV, at Marks & Spenser
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: 42 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: W97 x H60 x D9cm (without stand) , W97 x H66 x D26cm (with stand) Weight: 17kg (without stand), 20kg (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, Weight: 0.17 lbs., Manufacturer: Marks & Spencer

Machine Washable Fine Stripe Tie, at Marks&Spencer
No more trips to the drycleaners! This striped tie is machine washable

Pure Cotton Stab Stitch Jersey Top, at M & S
This short sleeved top will make a useful addition to your wardrobe. It features pretty stab stitch for a stylish casual look

Tiny Fairies Nan Birthday Card, at Marks and Spencer
Cover Text: To my lovely Nan, You mean such a lot to me xx Inside Message: Hope that your birthday is as special as you are xx Approx. Size: 178 x 126mm

Cotton Blend Tummy and Waist Control Vest, at Marks and Spenser
This tummy control vest gives a flattering shape - great under close fitting tops. The hidden panel shapes the waistline and flattens your tummy while the longer length helps prevent it rolling up

Autograph Exclusive Pure Cashmere V-Neck Poncho, at Marks & Spencer
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

Anniversary Gold Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 - Case of 12, at Marks and Spenser
Style: Dry, medium bodied Grape variety: Cabernet Sauvignon Country of origin: France Closure: Screw cap Suitable for vegetarians Bottle: 12 x 75cl. Alcohol by volume: 13.5% vol. Alcohol units per bottle: 10.1 Alcohol units per 125ml: 1.7 Contains sulphites You must be 18 or over to purchase this product This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

Lichfield Slat-Back Fabric Chair, at Marks and Spencer
H102 x W46 x D60cm Single chair Made from White Oak solids and veneers Finished with 3 coats of durable, clear lacquer of mid sheen Chair frames made from solid European hardwood 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

Long Sleeve Cropped Oblong Cardigan, at Marks and Spenser
Contemporary and casual this oblong cardigan makes the perfect light extra layer. It features a ribbed shawl collar for an extra stylish touch

Perfect Single Breasted One Button Seam Detail Jacket, at Marks & Spencer
Power dressing for the Noughties...this seam detail jacket and belted dress will have you feeling razor sharp

Younger Girls' Bow Bar Permair™ School Shoes, at Marks and Spencers
Round toe Bow feature Single ankle strap with rip tape fastening Flat sole Scallop trim Scuff Resistant Permair™ micro porous coating makes the shoes scuff- and water-resistant and easy to clean, while allowing feet to breathe

Foot File, at Marks and Spencers
Coarser side to file away hard skin Finer side to polish and smooth your skin

Ethnic Cateye Stretch Bracelet, at Marks & Spensers
Mixed bead design Stretch style

Sun Formula Protect & Refine Facial Sun Lotion, at Marks & Spensers
Helps to prevent the signs of aging Powerful antioxidant complex Anti-wrinkle Anti-aging Prevention of age spots Australian formula 12 hour moisturisation SPF50 gives up to 50 times your natural skins protection 50ml This product is not available for international delivery. Find out more

3 Pure Cotton Sleeveless Rib Vests, at Marks & Spencer
Cute and comfy, these fashionable ribbed vests are made from soft cotton

There are lots of ways to save money using M&S Financial Services. Not least of these is Marks & Spencer Standard Motor Insurance. With M&S Financial Services you can keep the cost of your Motor 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 Motor Insurance cover from M&S Financial Services, which also has other features.

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