Aviva has been known by several names throughout its history, most recently as CGNU plc before adopting its current name in 2002.
The Evolution of Aviva's Name
Aviva, a prominent British multinational insurance company, has undergone several significant name changes over the years. While the company traces its roots back to 1696 with the Hand in Hand Fire & Life Insurance Society, the modern entity known as Aviva plc was formed through mergers.
The journey to the current Aviva name involved a series of mergers and rebrandings, reflecting the company's growth and consolidation within the insurance industry. The names immediately preceding Aviva, as listed in its corporate history, provide insight into this evolution.
Previous Corporate Names
The company that is now Aviva operated under various names before its current identity. The table below details these former names and the periods they were in use:
| Former Name | Period (Year-Year) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CGNU plc | 2000–2002 | This was the immediate predecessor name before the adoption of the Aviva brand. The entity was formed by the merger of CGU plc and Norwich Union. |
| CGU plc | 1998–2000 | Formed from the merger of Commercial Union plc and General Accident plc. |
| Commercial Union plc | 1990–1998 | A long-standing insurance company that eventually became part of the mergers leading to CGU plc. |
The Aviva plc name was officially adopted in 2002, following its formation by merger in 2000.
