1949 - 1985

Fred Sawyer, the first ‘Man from the Pru’, photographed outside Holborn Bars

1949

The Man from the Pru advertising campaign is launched, emphasising the role of agents in providing Prudential products to customers in their own homes.

The Prudential computer suite at Holborn Bars

1965

Computer technology provides the ideal tool for processing vast numbers of policies. Two huge mainframe Orion computers, specially designed for Prudential, are installed in the new Holborn Bars computer suite.

1968

The launch of unit trusts leads to a new range of investment-linked savings products.

1982

PPM (Prudential Portfolio Managers) is set up to manage the company’s equity investments and provide services to third-party clients. The aim is to build up a quality investment management operation, able to operate efficiently in all world markets.

1961

The first offices of Jackson National Life are opened in Jackson, Michigan.

Prudential’s first television commercials

1967

Prudential’s first ever television commercials are broadcast. The advertisements are shown in popular early evening slots – they are seen by over 12 million people.

1978

Prudential Corporation is formed as a holding company to facilitate more flexible management of Prudential’s diverse interests.