segments while producing strong business renewal rates of 90 percent. This increased market penetration created more than  $4 billion in potential new business. We are also expanding our middle market insurance busi- ness into new business sectors, such as the financial services industry. In 2004, we delivered above-target profitable growth and retention while beating the competition with coverage,  service and pricing. Additionally, we are the first middle market business insur- ance carrier to enable agents to electronically submit new busi- ness directly from their own systems. This enhances their business opportunities by providing them with the fastest and most accurate responses possible. In 2004, our sales results were strong. Written premium in business insurance grew 16 percent over 2003, to $4.6 billion. Contributing to this positive overall performance in business insurance is our increased presence among current and potential customers. Since 2000, we doubled the number of field offices in the United States to 28, and since 2002, we have grown our field sales force by 27 percent. By responding to changing customer needs through increased distribution, new products and enhanced technology, we antici- pate a robust 2005 as well. A surprisingly small air filter can help chemist  Bob Ross determine how much and what kind of dust a welder may be breathing or how much formaldehyde (commonly used in furniture manufacturing) may be suspended in the air of a new office. By detecting hazards early,  The Hartford can help commercial clients maintain the safety and health of employees and avoid losses they may otherwise incur. The company’s Loss Control Laboratory is an effective resource for employers by helping them pro- tect employees from physical, chemical or biological hazards. Our state-of-the-art equipment can test for chemical exposure  levels in industrial plants, ware- houses, fire sites or any work  environment that may put workers at risk. One of the oldest accred- ited labs in the country, it helps reduce risk for both employers  and The Hartford. Business Insurance Ex-Cat Combined Ratio* *Ex-catastrophe combined ratios and catastrophe ratios treat the effect of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack as a catastrophe. 00 01 02 03 04 82 86 90 94 98 102     workers’ air quality safe Increased our Property and Casualty sales force  by 27% 25